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One moment can change everything. A heated situation, a misunderstanding, or being in the wrong place at the wrong time can lead to a robbery accusation. But being charged doesn’t make you guilty—and it doesn’t mean your future is set in stone. Colorado’s robbery laws are strict, but the system isn’t perfect, and not every case is what it seems.

When the odds feel stacked against you, having a strong legal advocate can make all the difference. Andrew Bryant Law knows how to handle the challenges of robbery cases, ensuring that your voice is heard and your rights are protected. The first step to taking control is reaching out. Speak to our Colorado criminal defense attorney to explore your options and fight back.

What is Robbery in Colorado?

Robbery is one of the more severe theft-related crimes under Colorado law because it involves an element of force, threats, or intimidation. According to Colorado Revised Statutes (C.R.S.) 18-4-301, robbery is defined as taking something of value from another person or in their presence using force, threats, or intimidation.

Unlike theft, where property is taken without confrontation, robbery typically involves direct interaction between the accused and the victim. This critical distinction is why robbery is treated as a felony offense in Colorado.

For example, imagine someone stealing a wallet by intimidating the victim with verbal threats or physical aggression. This act goes beyond theft; it becomes robbery because of the use of force or fear.

Different Types of Robbery in Colorado

Simple Robbery

Simple robbery, often referred to as just “robbery,” is the baseline offense. Under C.R.S. 18-4-301, it involves taking property from another person or their immediate presence through the use of force, threats, or intimidation. This is considered a Class 4 felony, which comes with significant penalties, including prison time, mandatory parole, and fines.

Aggravated Robbery

Aggravated robbery, defined under C.R.S. 18-4-302, occurs when a robbery involves additional factors that make the crime more dangerous. These factors include:

• Using a deadly weapon during the robbery.
• Threatening the use of a deadly weapon, even if it’s fake.
• Causing bodily injury during the act.
• Robbing someone with the intent to harm or kill.

Aggravated robbery is a Class 3 felony, which carries harsher penalties, including longer prison sentences,  and mandatory parole.

Aggravated Robbery of Controlled Substances

This type of robbery involves stealing drugs or pharmaceuticals, usually from pharmacies, hospitals, or medical facilities. Because of the high value and regulated nature of controlled substances, these cases are treated with extreme seriousness. The penalties align with those of aggravated robbery, with additional legal implications related to controlled substances.

Penalties for Robbery in Colorado

Simple Robbery Penalties

Class 4 Felony:

• Prison sentence: 2–6 years.
• Fines: Up to $500,000.
• Mandatory parole: 3 years.

Aggravated Robbery Penalties

Class 3 Felony:

• Prison sentence: 4–16 years.
• Fines: Up to $750,000.
• Mandatory parole: 5 years.

Sentence enhancements may apply if certain factors are involved and greatly increases the potentially penalties.  If a deadly weapon is used during the commission of an aggravated robbery, a crime of violence sentence enhancer is added.  If this sentence enhancer is proven, the sentence range becomes 10 to 32 years in prison, and it also requires a mandatory prison sentence from the Court.

Additional Consequences

• A felony robbery conviction can result in a criminal record that affects your ability to find employment, secure housing, or obtain loans.
• Loss of civil rights, including the right to vote or own firearms.

Defenses Against Robbery Charges

There are various legal defenses that may be applicable in a Colorado robbery case. Some of the most common include the following:

• Lack of Intent to Use Force: Robbery requires intent. If your actions were misinterpreted or there was no intent to threaten or use force, this could be a strong defense.
• Mistaken Identity: Misidentification is a frequent issue in robbery cases, especially if the crime occurred in a chaotic environment or if witnesses were unreliable. Your attorney can challenge the reliability of witness testimony and other evidence.
• Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution must prove every element of robbery beyond a reasonable doubt. If there’s a lack of solid evidence linking you to the crime, your attorney can argue for a dismissal or reduction of charges.
• Coercion or Duress: If you were forced to participate in a robbery under threat of harm, your attorney could present this as a defense.

Seek Legal Help from a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Colorado

When facing robbery charges, the stakes are high—your freedom, your future, and your reputation are all on the line. No case is the same, and no defense should be, either. At The Law Office of Andrew Bryant, we don’t rely on cookie-cutter solutions. Instead, we dive deep into the details of your case, from the circumstances surrounding the charges to the evidence presented against you.

Our personalized approach means building a defense tailored to your situation, whether that involves challenging evidence, highlighting inconsistencies in witness testimony, or negotiating for reduced charges. With experience handling robbery cases in Colorado, we’re here to guide you through every step of the legal process.

Your future deserves more than just a one-size-fits-all defense. Call 719-634-7353 or contact us online to start building your case today.