Robbery Charges Levied Against Santa Monica Man for Hat Theft
A 31-year-old man was recently arrested in Santa Monica after allegedly assaulting and stealing the hat of a man walking down Santa Monica Boulevard. Reports by The Santa Monica Mirror indicate that the defendant was charged with robbery by the Santa Monica Police Department with a bail set at $50,000.
According to reports, the incident began when the defendant walked up from behind the alleged victim and put his arm around him in a friendly manner and informed him that he wanted all of his money. The man then tried to get away, but was held tighter and then punched in the back of the head. Following this, the defendant reportedly took the man’s hat and walked away.
Police arrived at the scene of the alleged crime after being told of the strong-arm robbery by the victim. When officers were notified of a disturbance in a nearby area, they found the man accused of committing the robbery and the hat that was allegedly taken in a nearby trash can.
Under California Penal Code Section 211, 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.” Robbery can be charged as either a first degree crime, which is punishable by three, six, or nine years, or a second degree, which can be punished by two, three, or five years.
At The Law Firm of Joseph H. Low IV, defendants receive skilled criminal defense that will protect their rights and future well-being. Call criminal defense lawyer Joseph H. Low IV at (888) 454-5569 or fill out an online contact form for a no-cost consultation about your case. Swift action and the help of a dedicated attorney are vital in creating a successful defense against your charges.