Different Types of Robbery
Criminal law classifies charges in a number of ways. For example, a crime may be a felony or misdemeanor, and it may be a first-degree, second-degree, or third-degree charge. For sentencing purposes, Maryland criminal law assigns a “seriousness category” to felonies and misdemeanors. This means that the sentencing guidelines can vary considerably depending on the circumstances or type of robbery charge. For information specific to your case, it’s advisable that you contact a defense attorney in Charles County.
Misdemeanor Theft
Whether a robbery charge is a misdemeanor or a felony depends on the value of the allegedly stolen property. The standard threshold is $1,000; below this point, misdemeanor charges apply. Additionally, allegedly stolen property worth less than $100 might be charged as theft under $100 or theft under $1,000. The former charge carries a less severe maximum penalty than the latter. Your criminal defense attorney may be able to negotiate for the lesser charge on your behalf. The penalties will also vary depending on whether you have prior convictions. If you have two or more prior offenses, the maximum jail term and fine is increased.
Felony Theft
When the value of allegedly stolen property exceeds $1,000, your attorney at law must defend you against felony charges. The potential penalties upon conviction are tiered, depending on the value of the property. If it is between $1,000 and $10,000, you could be sentenced to a fine of up to $10,000 and a prison term of up to 15 years. A maximum fine of $15,000 and prison term of up to 15 years applies to stolen property valued between $10,000 and $100,000.
Armed Robbery
The circumstances of the alleged incident can influence the specific type of robbery charge. For example, the use of any dangerous weapon—not just a firearm—during the commission of the crime is a felony with a seriousness category of III. The maximum prison term is 20 years. The written threat that a weapon is present, even if no weapon actually is present, is also classified as armed robbery with a seriousness category of III.
Carjacking
Maryland law classifies unarmed carjacking as a felony with a seriousness category of III. It can lead to up to 30 years in prison. Armed carjacking has a seriousness category of II; however, it has the same maximum prison term as unarmed carjacking.
