Maryland Man Charged With Armed Robbery

Armed robberies are unfortunately common at convenience stores and gas stations. Many people go into these stores with weapons, hoping to make a quick buck by threatening workers to give them the money in the cash register.

A man from North Beach tried his hand at an armed robbery on the morning of October 19. He was later arrested and charged.

The 29-year-old man entered the Fastop, located at 8834 Chesapeake Avenue, wearing all black with a mask. He asked the cashier for cigarettes and when asked for ID, the man brought out an AR-15 style gun. The man ordered the cashier to place all the money inside two plastic bags. The man then fled the Fastop on foot.

The man was later arrested. He is currently being held at the Calvert County Detention Center. He is facing multiple charges, including robbery, armed robbery, first-degree assault, second-degree assault, theft, and possession of a firearm while committing a felony.

Robbery in Maryland

In Maryland, a person can face robbery and armed robbery charges. Both are felonies that involve the use of threat or force, but armed robbery uses a deadly weapon, such as a gun or knife. However, any instrument that can cause bodily harm, such as a rock, baseball bat, or steel pipe, can be considered a deadly weapon. Another difference is that robbery can result in 15 years in prison, while armed robbery tacks on another five years, resulting in possibly 20 years in prison.

The state treats robbery and attempted robbery the same. This means that if a person tried to rob someone, but the attempt failed and they never stole anything, they can still face felony charges as well as 15 years in prison.

Defending Your Case

If you are accused of robbery charges, you need to defend yourself. Find an aggressive lawyer who knows how to negotiate with prosecutors and the judges. An attorney who is in the courtroom often will likely have a clear understanding of how judges will rule on certain motions.

If a conviction is likely, an experienced attorney can come up with a plea agreement to decrease or even eliminate possible jail time. It is also possible for a lawyer to go through the evidence and find ways to reduce the robbery charges to misdemeanors, which carry more lenient penalties. An experienced lawyer can also develop other defenses based on the circumstances of your specific case.

Contact a Maryland Criminal Defense Attorney Today

Robbery uses force, intimidation, threats, and sometimes weapons. These are felony charges that can result in 15-20 years in prison.

If you have been accused of robbery, seek legal help right away to get a solid defense. The Columbia robbery & burglary lawyers at the Law Offices of Todd K. Mohink, P.A. can negotiate with prosecutors to help reduce your charges. Schedule a consultation to get started. Fill out the online form or call (410) 774-5987. We have two offices to serve you.

Resource:

southernmarylandchronicle.com/2021/10/20/north-beach-man-charged-in-fastop-armed-robbery/