Man Robbed When He Stopped At An Intersection In Lawrence Massachusetts
According to The Lawrence Eagle Tribune, the driver of a minivan was robbed at gunpoint when he stopped at a stop sign in Lawrence Massachusetts. According to the police, after the driver came to a stop at the intersection, three armed men entered his van and stole a car stereo, global positioning system and earrings. After securing the items the thieves allowed the victim to drive away. The victim proceeded to the police station to report the crime.
Based on the facts in this case it appears that in addition to armed robbery culprits could also be charged with larceny of property valued at over $250.00 and assault when they are apprehended. A conviction for armed robbery provides for a punishment of up to life in state prison. If convicted for the felony of larceny of property valued at over $250.00 an individual may received up to two and one half years in the house of correction.
In Massachusetts, there are two theories of culpability for the crime of assault. The Commonwealth can prove the crime by either proving an attempted battery or by proving an imminently threatened battery. Following a trial on this type of charge, an experienced defense attorney should request that the jury slip reflect both theories and that the judge inform the deliberating jurors that in order to convict the defendant they must unanimously agree on the theory of culpability.
Relative to proving the crime, the Massachusetts courts have held that an act placing another in reasonable apprehension that force may be used is sufficient for the offense of criminal assault. However, generally speaking words threatening future harm are insufficient to constitute an assault. This "threatened-battery branch" of assault requires specific intent to put the victim in fear or apprehension of immediate physical harm. If the Commonwealth proceeds under the "threatened battery" prong, the government does not have to prove fear on the part of the victim.
If you have been charged with assault, assault and battery, a crime of domestic violence or any other crime of violence it is important that you contact an experienced Massachusetts defense attorney as soon as possible. Based on the facts of the case, it may be necessary to interview witnesses and begin mounting a defense while the facts are still fresh in people's minds.
Attorney Kathleen McCarthy appears in courthouses in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts including Peabody, Lowell and Newburyport representing clients for all types of crimes from the arraignment through trial or disposition. Her vast experience also includes representing defendants for probation surrender hearings and at clerk's hearings. If you find yourself in a situation where you need the advice of a seasoned defense attorney contact Attorney McCarthy at 978-875-8060 or online and she will get to work on your case immediately.
