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posted on 2/20/21

Illinois police officers have arrested a 19-year-old for allegedly robbing a gas station. The robber drove up to a gas station in Belleville, Illinois, just after 11 p.m. The gas station clerk was not injured, but the robber allegedly took cash from the cash register. He drove away, but law enforcement officers were able to spot his car early the next morning. He was eventually arrested after he crashed his vehicle in a field in East St Louis. He is now facing robbery charges.

What Do Prosecutors Need to Prove Armed Robbery?

If you have been charged with robbery, it is important to understand what that charge entails. Illinois breaks down robbery into armed robbery and simple robbery. Armed robbery is considered a violent crime in Illinois and carries more severe penalties. However, prosecutors must prove all of the elements of the crime of robbery to secure a conviction. As with all crimes, you as the defendant are innocent until proven guilty. Prosecutors must prove the following elements:

  • You stole property from someone else without their consent. Keep in mind that the victim does not need to own the property, but the property must be in his or her possession. For example, when the alleged robber mentioned above took cash from the gas station employee, the employee did not own the cash, but it was in his possession.
  • You used a dangerous weapon while robbing another person. The prosecution must show that you took the property by force while using that dangerous weapon. If prosecutors cannot prove that you used a dangerous weapon, they will not secure armed robbery charges. They will need to lower the charges to simple robbery. A skilled defense attorney can attempt to negotiate with the prosecution to lower or dismiss your charges.
  • You used violence or intimidation.
  • You intended to keep the stolen property from the individual permanently.

Robberies are Classified as Felonies in Illinois

Under Illinois law, robberies are always considered felonies, regardless of what property you allegedly stole. The penalty depends on what the property you allegedly stole was worth, however. Depending on the amount of value of the stolen property, you could be facing outrageous fees and years in prison.

Why You Need an Experienced Lawyer

Every case is different, but one thing remains the same. When you need a lawyer, experience matters. At Glasgow & Olsson, our award-winning criminal defense lawyers know what it takes to represent clients and robbery and armed robbery charges assertively. We will thoroughly investigate your case and negotiate with the prosecution to dismiss your case or reduce your charges. Our experienced lawyers are trial-ready and will handle all the complicated details in your case. If you have been charged with robbery or aggravated robbery, contact us today to schedule your initial consultation.