As previously mentioned, Florida considers robbery as:

• Using force, assault, violence, or fear against the victim
• Having the intent to temporarily or permanently deprive an individual of money or property
• Physically obtaining possession of the person’s property without permission

If the offender is armed, there are harsh consequences and stiffer penalties for a conviction. When a deadly weapon is used, there is an implied use of force against the victim. If an individual has been convicted of armed robbery, they could face harsh penalties such as:

• A life prison sentence
• A fine of $10,000

For those offenders with prior felonies, the state could seek an enhanced sentence. When the individual uses a firearm, there are mandatory minimum sentences for robbery, including:

• A minimum 10-year mandatory sentence if the firearm was used in the commission of the felony. 
• If the gun is fired, but no one was injured, there is a 20-year minimum sentence.
• If someone was injured but not killed, it is a 30 year to life minimum mandatory sentence.

In the state, robbery can either be determined:

• By force: The individual must have used some type of physical violence against the victim. While purse snatching is often considered a theft, it could be considered a robbery if the victim experienced any physical harm when physical force was used to commit the offense. 
• With a deadly weapon: When a deadly weapon, such as a handgun, knife, or another weapon, is used in the commission of the crime, the state of Florida seeks strict penalties. For example, if an armed robber enters a bank and threatens another person, it is defined as armed robbery. Out of all the robbery offenses, this crime carries the harshest penalties. 

Along with robbery by force and with a deadly weapon, there are other robbery offenses in Florida, such as home invasion and carjacking. While home invasion is similar to burglary, it has an added “use of force” element to the crime. Anyone convicted of this crime could face life in prison. 

Anyone who perpetrates theft of a vehicle by using threats,  force, or violence could be guilty of carjacking. When the offender does not use a deadly weapon, it is considered a first-degree felony. If a deadly weapon was present, a conviction carries a life sentence.

In any robbery charge without a deadly weapon, it is considered a felony with a punishment of:

• 15-year prison sentence
• A $10,000 fine

However, many aggravating factors can assure harsh penalties for the convicted. In some cases, a firearm dramatically increases the penalties for these crimes. 

Along with enhanced penalties, you must be aware of the “10-20-Life.” In some circumstances, the judge will impose harsh sentences for any crimes that involve a deadly weapon or firearm. These minimum sentences often involve a 10-year, 20-year, or 25-to-life sentence for these crimes. 

Whether a firearm was used or not, all robbery offenses are considered felonies, with substantial fines and long prison terms. In some crimes, the value of the property is taken into consideration, but any robbery conviction will carry at least a one-year prison sentence. 

State prosecutors often push for the strictest punishments for these offenses. They must prove that the defendant:

• Threatened or used force against the victim
• Took property or money without the owner’s consent
• The property had value
• The offender had intent to commit a crime

Since the penalties for a robbery conviction are harsh, you want to have a criminal defense lawyer on your case. There are a few defenses against a robbery charge. Some of these defenses might lead to a dismissed or reduced charge, including:

• The defendant believed he or she owned the property. 
• Witnesses misidentified the defendant.
• The case cannot be proved beyond a reasonable doubt.

When you have been charged with robbery or armed robbery, you need to find a skilled attorney to help with your defense. With any crime, there are specific circumstances related to your case. No matter the offense, an Ocala robbery lawyer will be able to help you find suitable legal options for your charge.

If you have been arrested for robbery, it is essential to consult with an experienced Ocala criminal defense attorney. Robert Zlatkin has the knowledge to handle these offenses, and he will evaluate your particular case. Florida state prosecutors will seek the strictest penalties for this offense. If you are convicted, you could face lengthy prison sentences and hefty fines. 

Don’t risk your freedom when facing these charges. Make sure to schedule a case evaluation with Robert Zlatkin’s Ocala office today!