Robbery occurs when a person knowingly takes property from a person or the presence of a person by force or the imminent threat of force. Property in this instance does not include motor vehicles. The taking of motor vehicles is dealt with under a different statute. Robbery is a class 2 felony in Illinois. Certain actions can increase the severity of the crime. The following factors increase robbery to a class 1 felony:
- if the victim is 60 years of age or over
- if the victim is a physically handicapped person
- if the robbery is committed in a school, day care center, day care home, group day care home, part day child care facility, or place of worship
Aggravated Robbery
The threat or presence of a firearm or other weapon increases the charge to aggravated robbery. Just the threat of a weapon will make this charge applicable whether or not a weapon is actually present. If a person takes property from a person or the presence of a person by using a controlled substance, that also constitutes aggravated robbery. Aggravated robbery is a class 1 felony in Illinois.
Armed Robbery
Armed robbery is the most serious of the robbery offenses. This occurs when a person commits robbery and also:
- carries or uses a weapon other than a firearm
- carries or uses a firearm
- discharges a firearm during the offense
- discharges a firearm during the offense that causes bodily harm, permanent disfigurement, permanent disability or death
Armed robbery is a class x felony. Depending on the circumstances of the crime, 15, 20 or 25 years can be added to the sentence if a firearm is present, used or causes harm.
Sentences for Robbery in Illinois
In Illinois robbery is a serious crime with a felony conviction. The sentence for a felony conviction is severe. The consequences of a conviction for robbery include:
- You can be sentenced to prison
- a class 2 felony can be punished with possible imprisonment of 3-7 years
- a class 1 felony can be punished with possible imprisonment of 4-15 years
- a class X felony can be punished with possible imprisonment of 6-30 years
- You may have to pay fines of up to $25,000
- You can be sentenced to Boot Camp
- You can be required to serve additional time if a gun was possessed, fired or caused harm―15, 20 or 25 years added
- You can be labeled a felon and unable to get a quality job
Chicago Robbery Defense Attorney
The assistance of an experienced criminal defense attorney is critical if you have been charged with robbery, aggravated robbery or armed robbery. Sentences for felony crimes are severe and have long term consequences. Don’t put your freedom at risk. Hire a qualified Chicago criminal defense attorney to defend your rights. Michael P. Chomiak is dedicated to helping his clients and has the necessary experience to enact a superior defense. Call his office today to learn more.