It was recently reported in the OC Register that trial began for the robbery of a Buena Park liquor store. On August 8, 2006, two individuals intentionally shot a liquor store owner and a customer in the head for purposes of avoiding any witnesses to the robbery.
The two alleged robbers were William Deshawn Cartlideg and Neil Deontrai Duffey. The prosecution alleged that the two shot, Mote Malhas, the owner of Sportsman Liquor, at close range and Cesar Castillo, a customer in the store. The two robbers eventually yanked the register from the counter and fled.
Under California law, robbery is defined as the felonious taking of personal property in the possession of another, from his person or immediate presence, and against his will, accomplished by means of force or fear. Any amount of force is enough to qualify as a robbery. In this case, using a handgun is sufficient force to constitute a robbery. More importantly, robbery is punishable based on whether it is first or second degree robbery. First degree robbery is defined as any robbery of any person who is performing his or her duties as an operator of any bus, taxicab, or, streetcar, and every robbery which is perpetrated in an inhabited dwelling house, or any inhabited portion of any other building. Second degree robbery is all other robbery. The punishment for first degree robbery is state imprisonment for three, six, or nine years. Conversely, second degree robbery is punished by two, three, or five years.
If you or a loved one is facing a charge of robbery, it is important that you speak with an experienced Southern California attorney. At Wallin & Klarich, our attorneys have over 30 years of experience in handling all types of robbery cases. Our attorneys will fully inform you of your options as they navigate through the complex court system for you. Call us today at (888) 280-6839 or visit us at www.wklaw.com. We will be there when you call.