Boston Armed Robbery Attorney

Facing Armed Robbery Charges in Boston? Call (617) 500-0252

In the eyes of both the state of Massachusetts and the federal government, armed robbery is an extremely serious crime. Armed robbery is defined as whomever, being armed with a dangerous weapon, assaults another and robs, steals, or takes from his person money or other property. In Massachusetts, armed robbery can be sentenced by a term of up to life in prison and is a complex crime. For example, did you know that masked armed robbery is different from just armed robbery, and carries a mandatory minimum prison sentence of 5 years in state prison? Because of this, it is best to have an armed robbery lawyer who knows the laws inside and out.

If you are facing a charge of armed robbery, it is highly recommended to hire a violent crime lawyer. Brad Bailey has decades of experience in criminal law and knows what it takes to create the best defense strategy possible. For example, Mr. Bailey reached a successful outcome in Commonwealth v. Leaks, a masked armed robbery case he defended in Middlesex County Superior Court. He also prosecuted (and tried) multiple armed robbery/masked armed robbery cases while a Middlesex County prosecutor, including a number involving alleged multi-town crime sprees that ultimately resulted in twenty-plus years sentences for those involved. These unique past experiences give Brad a distinct advantage when defending clients accused of similar crimes.

Brad Bailey will utilize out-of-the-box thinking to create the best defense possible for you. He cares about his clients and treats them and their cases with the utmost sensitivity and respect. Please contact Mr. Bailey today for a private phone consultation.

Whoever, being armed with a dangerous weapon, assaults another and robs, steals or takes from his person money or other property shall be punished. In order to prove the defendant guilty of armed robbery, the Commonwealth must prove four elements beyond a reasonable doubt:

Key Elements of Armed Robbery in Massachusetts

Armed with a Dangerous Weapon.  
The first element the Commonwealth must prove beyond a reasonable doubt is that the defendant was armed with a dangerous weapon. This means that the Commonwealth must prove that the defendant had a dangerous weapon in their possession. The crime of armed robbery is based on the potential for injury. That potential for injury does not depend on the precise moment at which the defendant becomes armed, so long as they became armed at a point directly related to the commission and completion of the robbery. A dangerous weapon is any instrument that by the nature of its construction or the manner of its use is capable of causing grievous bodily injury or death, or could be perceived by a reasonable person as capable of such injury.

Applied Force and Violence or Threatening Words or Gestures.  
The second element the Commonwealth must prove beyond a reasonable doubt is that the defendant either applied actual force and violence to the body of the victim, or by threatening words or gestures put the victim in fear. The actual force and violence, or assault and putting the victim in fear, must be the cause of the defendant obtaining possession of the property.

Took Money or Property with the Intent to Steal.  
The third element the Commonwealth must prove beyond a reasonable doubt is that a defendant took the money or other property with the intent to steal it. This means that the Commonwealth must prove that the defendant took and carried away property, against the victim’s will, with the intent to deprive the victim of their possessions permanently.

Took Money or Property from the Person or Immediate Control of the Victim.  
The fourth element the Commonwealth must prove beyond a reasonable doubt is that the defendant took the money or other property from the possession or control of the victim.

Understanding Armed Robbery While Masked

Whoever, being armed with a dangerous weapon, assaults another and robs, steals or takes from his person money or other property provided, however, that any person who commits any offense described herein while masked or disguised or while having his features artificially distorted shall be punished.

In order to prove the defendant guilty of armed robbery while masked, the Commonwealth must prove the 4 elements of armed robbery, plus: That a defendant committed the armed robbery while masked or disguised or with features artificially distorted.

The Commonwealth must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant committed the armed robbery while masked or disguised, or while having their features artificially distorted. The word masked has no peculiar technical meaning in law, but is to be taken in its common usage. It means that a person’s face is covered or partially covered so that the face is screened or concealed from view. The face need not be totally concealed. It is enough if it is materially and substantially obstructed. Recognition need not be wholly obstructed. Thus, the mask need not be one that so totally covers or conceals the facial features that the wearer cannot be identified or recognized. The statute applies equally to the inept or bungling masker as it does to the skillful one.

Call our office at (617) 500-0252 to reach our team of experienced Boston violent crime attorneys.

Local Insights on Armed Robbery Charges in Boston

When facing armed robbery charges in Boston, it’s crucial to understand the local landscape and the resources available to you. The Boston Police Department and the Suffolk County District Attorney's Office are key players in the legal process, and their procedures can significantly impact your case. With the city’s diverse neighborhoods, from the bustling streets of Downtown to the quieter areas of West Roxbury, the context of your alleged crime can vary widely, affecting how your case is approached.

Residents of Boston often express concerns about safety and crime, particularly in areas that have seen an uptick in violent incidents. This can lead to heightened scrutiny from law enforcement and the community, making it essential to have a knowledgeable attorney who understands the local dynamics. The potential for severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, can be daunting, especially for those who may be facing their first offense. Understanding the local court system and the specific challenges it presents is vital for mounting an effective defense.

Moreover, the Massachusetts Trial Court provides resources for defendants, including information on legal aid and public defenders, which can be invaluable for those who may not have the means to hire private counsel. Navigating these options can be overwhelming, but having a local attorney who is familiar with these resources can help ease the process and ensure you receive the support you need.

In Boston, the community is often affected by crime, leading to a strong desire for justice. This can create pressure on defendants, making it even more important to have a defense strategy that not only addresses the legal aspects but also considers the community's sentiments. Brad Bailey understands these local pain points and is committed to providing a defense that respects both the law and the community's concerns. If you find yourself facing armed robbery charges in Boston, reach out for a consultation to discuss your situation and explore your options.