Armed Robbery vs. Robbery in New Mexico
Theft offenses in New Mexico are taken very seriously. Theft offenses are generally larceny, robbery, burglary, and theft. Today, we focus on robbery, and the difference between robbery and armed robbery.
Robbery in the state of New Mexico is different than burglary, but they are often confused for one another. Robbery is the theft of any property of value from a person that is taken by threat of violence or force. Burglary is a theft, but without the use of violence or threat of force. Both, however, are felony charges and can lead to a life in prison under the right circumstances.
What is Robbery?
In New Mexico, if you are found guilty of robbery you are guilty of a third-degree felony. Robbery without a weapon, but still a threat of force or violence, carries harsh penalties. If found guilty of robbery, you could face:
- Up to three years in prison
- Fine of up to $5,000
- Both
What Constitutes Armed Robbery?
Armed robbery is more serious than robbery. That is because you have committed the act of robbery with a deadly weapon, such as a bat, knife, or gun. If you commit armed robbery, the charge is enhanced to a second-degree felony for your first offense.
Any subsequent armed robbery charge after your first, however, is treated as a first-degree felony. This means that you could face life in prison.
A first offense or second-degree felony may not threaten life imprisonment, but it is a serious conviction that will impact you for the rest of your life. The penalties, if convicted, include:
- Up to 18 years in prison
- Up to $15,000 in fine
- Combination of both
Launching a Robbery or Armed Robbery Defense
It is imperative that you hire a criminal defense attorney if you are arrested for armed robbery or robbery. These are very serious criminal charges that will affect the rest of your life. You will not only spend years in prison, but you will have a felony on your criminal record, which will prevent you from getting many jobs, receiving financial aid, or even furthering a career in the military.
Defending a theft crime, including robbery and armed robbery, requires extensive experience. You need an attorney that can investigate the case to try for a dismissal, or negotiate a better plea deal so that you do not spend the rest of your life with a felony conviction on your record.
Speak with a Criminal Defense Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been arrested for robbery, armed robbery, or another theft crime, you need an attorney by your side.
Speak with a defense attorney from New Mexico Criminal Law Offices today. We offer a free, no-obligation consultation. Schedule your consultation today at 505-375-4763 or connect with a staff member online.