As reported in the May 22, 2012 edition of the Providence Journal, two (2) New Bedford women have been arrested in connection with robbery of a ninety-three (93) year old woman. The two women assaulted the elderly woman by knocking her to the ground and took her purse. The women have been charged with robbery and aggravated assault.
Pursuant to Rhode Island General Laws 11-39-1, first degree robbery is defined as every person who shall commit: (1) robbery by use of a dangerous weapon; (2) robbery where a victim is injured; or (3) robbery where the victim is a person who is severely impaired or an elderly person; shall be guilty of first degree robbery. An elderly person" means a person sixty (60) years of age or older. In this case the charge is first degree robbery due to the age of the victim and that she was injured.
The penalties if convicted include imprisonment for not less than ten (10) years and may be imprisoned for life, or fined not more than fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000), or both.
Pursuant to R.I.G.L. 11-5-2, felony assault is defined as every person who shall make an assault or battery, or both, with a dangerous weapon, or with acid or other dangerous substance, or by fire, or an assault or battery which results in serious bodily injury. "Serious bodily injury" means physical injury that:
(1) Creates a substantial risk of death;
(2) Causes protracted loss or impairment of the function of any bodily part, member or organ; or
(3) Causes serious permanent disfigurement or circumcises, excises or infibulates the whole or any part of the labia majora or labia minora or clitoris of a person.
The penalties if convicted include imprisonment for not more than twenty (20) years.
If you or a family member has been charged with robbery, larceny or other theft crimes, please allow Attorney Robert H. Humphrey's reputation, experience and skill to successfully guide you through the legal process. Please contact Attorney Robert H. Humphrey, Esq., at 401-816-5862 or e-mail him at rhh@rhumphreylaw.com.