How Many Years in Jail for Robbery?
Robbery is a serious crime that involves the taking of personal property from someone’s possession, typically by force or intimidation. The punishment for robbery can vary greatly depending on the jurisdiction, the circumstances of the crime, and the defendant’s criminal history. In this article, we will explore the general guidelines for the length of imprisonment for robbery and delve into the specifics of sentencing in different jurisdictions.
Sentencing Guidelines
Federal Sentencing
In the United States, robbery is a federal offense and is punishable by law under Title 18 of the United States Code (USC). The length of imprisonment for robbery at the federal level is generally based on the Criminal Career Risk Assessment" (CCRA), which is a scoring system that evaluates the defendant’s criminal history and the degree of danger posed by the defendant. The CCRA is used to determine whether the defendant is a violent career criminal and whether he poses a risk to the public.
The maximum imprisonment sentence for robbery at the federal level is twenty years (20 years), as outlined in Title 18 USC §2(a). However, the actual sentence imposed is usually significantly shorter, typically ranging from 2 to 5 years in jail, depending on the facts of the case and the defendant’s criminal history.
State Sentencing Laws
At the state level, robbery laws and sentencing guidelines vary greatly. In general, states have their own statutory language defining robbery and impose penalties based on the type and severity of the offense.
Here is a rough outline of the typical ranges of imprisonment for robbery at the state level:
• Non-violent robbery: 1-10 years in jail
• Violent robbery (armed): 10-25 years in jail
• Aggravated robbery (serious physical harm or threat): 25-50 years in jail
• Multiple robberies or serial robberies: 10-50 years in jail or even life imprisonment in extreme cases
Specific Jurisdictions
Let’s take a closer look at some specific jurisdictions to understand the varying sentencing ranges:
California: California’s Penal Code §487 (robbery) mandates a sentence of 3-9 years for first-time offenders, and up to 10-12 years for second-time offenders.
Florida: Florida’s Statute §812.13 (robbery) carries a minimum sentence of 4 years and a maximum sentence of 15-25 years.
New York: New York’s Penal Law §160.10 (robbery) provides for a maximum sentence of 15 years to life in prison, depending on the degree of force used during the robbery.
Beware of Aggravating Circumstances
Sentences for robbery can become more severe when aggravating circumstances are present, such as:
- Using or attempting to use a weapon
- Causing serious physical harm or threatening to do so
- Committing multiple robberies or serial robberies
- Targeting a vulnerable individual, such as a child or elder
Consequences for a Conviction
Robbery is a serious criminal offense that can have lasting consequences on a person’s life, including:
• Loss of employment and reputation
• Restriction on educational and professional opportunities
• Impact on family relationships
• Financial burden of restitution and fines
• Difficulty securing housing and employment with a criminal record
In conclusion, the length of imprisonment for robbery varies significantly depending on the jurisdiction and the circumstances of the case. It is essential for individuals to understand the criminal laws and sentencing guidelines in their jurisdiction to avoid imprisonment or mitigate the consequences of a conviction.
