William G. Yarborough

Is purse snatching considered robbery?

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Robbery is the use of force or intimidation to take another person’s property. This use of violence, or threat of violence, makes the offense more serious than ordinary theft. But some U.S. states also use the term robbery to define a crime committed in the direct presence of a victim aware of the theft, even if no violence is involved.

By that definition, snatching someone’s purse – a crime where the victim would surely be aware that someone is taking their purse – is robbery. But where does South Carolina stand in this case?

Purse snatching is its own offense

According to South Carolina law, purse snatching is a separate offense from robbery. It’s defined as the unlawful snatching of another’s purse or other thing of value, intending to deprive the owner of the item. The law adds that for an offense to constitute purse snatching, the circumstances of the theft mustn’t lead to grand larceny or robbery.

This means that the theft shouldn’t involve any form of force or threat of force. The theft shouldn’t also involve items valued over $2,000, or else the offense becomes grand larceny.

Penalties for purse snatching

Under the law, purse snatching is a misdemeanor. On conviction for the crime, a person faces up to three years of prison and $2,500 in fines.

However, if a court convicts a person for robbery instead because violence was involved, the penalty becomes up to 15 years of imprisonment, since robbery is a felony.

If the court convicts the person of snatching something worth over $2,000, the offense becomes grand larceny, a felony. A conviction leads to a term of imprisonment dependent on the value of the item:

  • Value of the item is more than $2,000 but less than $10,000: Up to five years of prison time
  • Value of the item is more than $!0,000: Up to 10 years of prison time

A court may also order a person convicted of grand larceny to pay a fine.

In conclusion, purse snatching is its own crime – though it can become robbery or grand larceny, depending on certain circumstances. Those who face these charges should consider consulting a legal professional to understand their defense options in court, especially if their offense is being presented as a more serious crime.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need a lawyer?

If you have been charged with a crime, arrested, or under investigation then you need a lawyer.

When you’re charged with a crime, there may be potential penalties that you’re not aware of. But there are ways to defend against the charges, too. Your lawyer can strategize for your case. They can represent you in court and to the prosecutor, putting their expertise to work for you.

Even if the charges don’t seem significant now, they may affect you in the future. Your lawyer defends your freedom and your best interests. If you’re facing a criminal charge or police investigation, contact a criminal defense lawyer.

What steps should I take immediately to protect my rights?

If you’re arrested or charged with a crime, be polite – but don’t consent to any search. Politely say that you refuse to answer any questions. Don’t resist the law enforcement officer.

Exercise your right to remain silent. This includes law enforcement officers before and after the arrest. It also means not talking to others at the police station, your friends, extended family, and social media. The things you say can be used against you.

Ask to contact your lawyer. Then call us right away. We can represent you at your next court hearing. Save everything that you think may be relevant to the case.

How long will my case take?

Every case has a different timeline depending on the severity and facts of the case. Some criminal charges can be resolved in just a few weeks. Others can take several months.

As your lawyer, William G. Yarborough will help you balance the various factors. It can take time to build defenses and/or negotiate a favorable plea agreement. It may be worth it to wait to go to trial. Other times, it’s best to take a plea deal.

What’s right for you depends on multiple factors. Attorney Yarborough can advise you on what he thinks is your best course of action.

Will my case go to trial?

There may be non-trial options available to you. You may secure a plea bargain or a pre-trial case diversion. Sometimes, preliminary motions can result in charges being dismissed.

However, you always have the right to a trial. In a trial, the prosecutor must prove the charges against you beyond a reasonable doubt.

Most cases don’t end up going to trial. But what matters is your case. Attorney Yarborough will work with you on a personalized case plan that reflects your interests and goals.

If your case does go to trial, Attorney William G. Yarborough is prepared to aggressively defend you in court.

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