There was a recent robbery in Mecklenburg County involving an arcade and an attempted murder. On May 2nd, robbers entered Buster's Arcade along U.S. Highway 29, armed with an AR-15 and a handgun. The two proceeded into the arcade while threatening patrons with gunfire if they did not listen to their commands. Due to the threats, the robbers were successful in leaving with almost $3,000 in cash. They also allegedly robbed two additional stores but were not as successful -- an A-2-Z Cash and Carry Wholesale -- both located in Charlotte. Even though the robbers were seen on surveillance videos during the robberies and used the same vehicle in these heists, they have yet to be arrested.
A Robbery Charge & Its Impact on You
An accusation of robbery can change one's life and limit your future opportunities. Even if you are not convicted of robbery, it can still have an impact because of the stain an arrest carries with it. In North Carolina, a robbery is considered a felony. However, the classification of that felony depends on the circumstances, specifically: whether or not dangerous weapons were used. The two types of felonies for robbery are:
- Common law robbery, a Class G felony; and
- Robbery with a Dangerous Weapon -- as either an aide or abettor -- a Class D felony.
If you are charged with a Class D felony in North Carolina, then the penalties range between 38 months (three years and two months) and 160 months (13 years and four months) in prison. In addition, you will lose the following rights:
- The right to own or possess a firearm
- The right to serve on a grand jury
- The right to vote
- The right to work in occupations that require federal or state licenses
- The right to work in state offices.
A felony charge will also impact your opportunities if you are found guilty. Following a conviction is a criminal record that can materialize whenever a potential employer, lessor, or other entity conducts a criminal background check. Companies looking for new employees to hire, hiring agencies searching for employees to review, and even landlords are not as likely to consider an individual that has a felony compared to candidates just as qualified but without a felony attached to their name.
What to do if you are accused of robbery
It is important to properly defend yourself against accusations of robbery. The charges and repercussions associated with robbery are very serious. In addition, the penalties that are issued in the form of a Class D felony or a Class G felony can last for several years. Proving your innocence and restoring your rights is what matters most if you are accused of robbery. If you have been accused of committing a robbery, then it is important to have experienced attorney represent you. Contact Caulder & Valentine Law Firm, PLLC, criminal defense attorneys experienced in robbery cases, either online or at 704-470-2440 for a confidential consultation and for more information today.
