Robbery In North Carolina

The North Carolina General Statutes describe robbery as the unlawful taking of property from another individual by the use of force or by the threat of force. It is a felonious offense under state law.

The law recognizes different types of robbery and assigns different penalties to accompany each one. For example, robbery with a dangerous weapon is its own specific offense, deemed to be a more serious crime than a common-law robbery and carrying harsher penalties than those accompanying a common-law robbery. Whereas individuals accused of common-law robbery may be charged with a class-G felony, individuals accused of robbery with a firearm may be charged with a class-D felony. Individuals accused of aiding or abetting a robbery with a dangerous weapon may also face a class-D felony under North Carolina law.

The law sets forth specific penalties for those who rob a locomotive or any part of a train. Individuals convicted of train robbery may be deemed a class-D felon.

Safecracking is another specific offense carrying specific penalties. People who enter a safe by using explosives, a stolen combination, other safecracking implements or surreptitious means may be convicted of a class-I felony under the law.

Penalties for felony convictions can include lengthy terms of imprisonment, fees, fines and probation. The assistance of a criminal defense lawyer might be helpful for people accused of common-law robbery or any other type of robbery. For, the attorney may utilize resources and strategies to mount a felony defense. By strategically contesting the allegations made by the prosecution and perhaps even proffering exculpating evidence, the defense lawyer may help accused individuals avoid a conviction and the severe penalties that accompany it.