Michigan Criminal Lawyers Blog
On Saturday, 22-year-old Ervin Dale Allen of Flint was arraigned on one count of felony firearm and four counts of armed robbery, according to news reports at Mlive.com. Allen allegedly robbed a Davison Check-n-Go on January 2. Authorities suspect he is also connected to similar robberies in Flint, Fenton, Grand Blanc, and Mt. Morris.
Davison police say the convenience store was robbed early in the morning at gunpoint. The defendant was arrested by police shortly after the robbery occurred and jailed. He is being held without bond pending a preliminary exam scheduled for January 14.
Davison police were assisted in the arrest of the defendant by the Mt. Morris and Grand Blanc Police Departments, along with the Flint Area Narcotics group.
Armed robbery is a very serious criminal offense in the state of Michigan. Stealing money from an establishment using violence, force, or instilling fear in individuals who are present may result in prison time of up to 15 years for those convicted. When a defendant is found guilty of possessing a dangerous weapon or even insinuating the presence of a weapon whether or not it is fact, he or she may face up to life in prison. The minimum prison sentence for an armed robbery conviction is two years. While no one wants to spend time behind bars, a conviction will also result in a criminal record, and possibly the ruin of your reputation and career. The damage is ultimately life-long.
Those accused of armed robbery must consult with an experienced Michigan criminal defense lawyer immediately, whether you have been arrested, charged, or are under investigation. A skilled defense attorney will investigate the facts of your case, challenge the evidence brought by prosecutors, and work vigorously to protect your freedom. While securing dismissal of the charges is always desired, there may be other options which will result in reduced charges and less damaging criminal penalties.