ATM Robbery: Can It Also Result in a Bank Robbery Charge?
Stealing money from an ATM can also result in bank robbery charges. The details of the crime determine if you’ll be charged with a civil or federal crime.
Important Details in a Bank Robbery Case
The most common type of federal crime that involves bank robbery charges usually involves a situation in which a person steals money from someone with the threat of using a weapon. Many ATM robbery cases involve the defendant using someone’s bank card without their permission, which isn’t the same crime. This type of crime, while illegal, is not typically considered a federal crime. Instead, this may lead to credit card fraud charges.
An ATM robbery that involves the use of a weapon or forced coercion may be similar to a bank robbery. Other details, like the location of the ATM, can also affect the type of charge. For example, if an ATM is located inside the bank or on the bank’s property, it may be charged federally. However, if the ATM is off-site and inside a private business, it may instead be charged as a crime against the company and not the federal bank.
How are Bank Robbery Charges Determined?
The prosecutor typically conducts an investigation into potential bank robbery charges. They may search the scene and talk to witnesses to gather more information. Depending on the information they are able to uncover, they will issue the appropriate charges. Minor cases may be charged as simple robbery, whereas others may be elevated to bank robbery charges.
A simple robbery case may be handled at the state level, whereas bank robbery charges will usually go through federal court.
Additional Potential Charges
Certain details can also worsen the consequences of a bank robbery, whether you’re being charged at the state or federal level. One of the most common charges that may be added to a bank robbery charge is aggravated assault. If a weapon was used in the robbery, the prosecutor may elevate the charges to also include aggravated assault.
Potential Consequences of Bank Robbery Charges in New Jersey
If you’re dealing with potential bank robbery charges in New Jersey, it’s important to understand the potential consequences. Potential consequences of robbery charges in New Jersey vary, but may include:
- Prison time
- Legal fines
- Permanent criminal record
- Required repayment
Additionally, the New Jersey No Early Release Act applies to many robbery cases. This act requires convicted offenders complete at least 85% of their sentences before they are eligible for parole. This is because the state considers bank robbery a violent crime, meaning most convicted offenders will complete the majority of their sentences.
Bank robbery cases are usually ineligible for pretrial intervention programs, and your immigration status could also be affected if charged.
The consequences of ATM and bank robberies in New Jersey are strict. Choosing the right criminal defense lawyer can help you protect your rights and build a defense case. It can take time to conduct an investigation and build a defense, so it may be in your best interest to choose a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.
Contact an Experienced Camden County Criminal Defense Lawyer About Your ATM Robbery Charges in Cherry Hill
Were you arrested or charged with ATM robbery in New Jersey? The consequences of a conviction could be severe, leaving you with a permanent criminal record and possibly even sending you to jail. That is why you need to speak with a qualified criminal defense attorney as soon as possible about your case. The attorneys at Gelman Law, LLC have successfully represented clients charged with ATM robbery in Cherry Hill, Camden County, Burlington County, Gloucester County, and throughout New Jersey. Call (856) 861-4236 or fill out the online contact form to schedule a consultation with a member of our legal team. We have an office conveniently located at 1940 W Rte 70 #4, Cherry Hill, NJ 08003.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
