Is Bank Robbery a Federal Offense?
Bank robbery is a serious crime that can have severe consequences for the perpetrator, including imprisonment and financial losses. But is bank robbery a federal offense? In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question and delve into the complexities of federal and state laws regarding bank robbery.
Is Bank Robbery a Federal Offense?
Yes, bank robbery is a federal offense. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is responsible for investigating and prosecuting bank robberies, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office can bring charges against individuals who commit this crime.
Federal Bank Robbery Laws
The federal bank robbery laws are outlined in the 18 U.S.C. § 2113, which states:
- Sec. 2113(a): Whoever takes or attempts to take, or who takes by means of threats or violence, any property or funds from the person or presence of another, with intent to gratify some lust, revenge, or mere mischief, or to prejudice the credit of a bank, is guilty of a federal crime.
- Sec. 2113(b): Whoever takes or attempts to take, or who takes by means of threats or violence, any property or funds from the person or presence of another, with intent to gratify some lust, revenge, or mere mischief, or to prejudice the credit of a bank, shall be imprisoned not more than 25 years, fined not more than $250,000, or both.
State Bank Robbery Laws
While federal laws criminalize bank robbery, state laws also have provisions that deal with this crime. Each state has its own set of laws and penalties for bank robbery, which can vary in severity.
Types of Bank Robberies
There are different types of bank robberies, each with its own set of circumstances and legal implications:
- Bank robbery with a firearm: This type of robbery is considered more serious and carries more severe penalties.
- Bank robbery with a dangerous weapon: This type of robbery involves the use of a weapon other than a firearm, such as a knife or club.
- Bank robbery without a weapon: This type of robbery is considered less serious and may carry less severe penalties.
Federal Sentencing Guidelines
When a person is convicted of bank robbery, they are subject to federal sentencing guidelines. The Federal Sentencing Guidelines (FSG) provide a range of sentencing options based on the severity of the crime and the offender’s criminal history.
FSG Range
The FSG range for bank robbery is as follows:
- Level 20: 33-41 months (2.75-3.5 years)
- Level 21: 41-51 months (3.5-4.25 years)
- Level 22: 51-63 months (4.25-5.25 years)
- Level 23: 63-77 months (5.25-6.4 years)
- Level 24: 77-97 months (6.4-8.1 years)
- Level 25: 97-121 months (8.1-10.1 years)
- Level 26: 121-151 months (10.1-12.6 years)
- Level 27: 151-181 months (12.6-15.1 years)
- Level 28: 181-221 months (15.1-18.4 years)
- Level 29: 221-272 months (18.4-22.7 years)
- Level 30: 272-328 months (22.7-27.3 years)
Conclusion
In conclusion, bank robbery is a federal offense that is punishable by imprisonment and financial losses. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the U.S. Attorney’s Office are responsible for investigating and prosecuting bank robberies, and the federal bank robbery laws are outlined in 18 U.S.C. § 2113. While state laws also criminalize bank robbery, the federal laws and penalties are more severe.
Table: Federal Sentencing Guidelines for Bank Robbery
Level | Minimum Sentence (months) | Maximum Sentence (months) |
---|---|---|
20 | 33 | 41 |
21 | 41 | 51 |
22 | 51 | 63 |
23 | 63 | 77 |
24 | 77 | 97 |
25 | 97 | 121 |
26 | 121 | 151 |
27 | 151 | 181 |
28 | 181 | 221 |
29 | 221 | 272 |
30 | 272 | 328 |
References:
- 18 U.S.C. § 2113
- Federal Sentencing Guidelines (FSG)
- Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
- U.S. Attorney’s Office