Over the past few months, Seattle has become the host of a serial armed robber. Targeting restaurants such as Baskin Robbins and Subway, the unidentified individual has committed three armed robberies since October. In November, a worker at a Baskin Robbins on Rainier Avenue faced the robber when he grabbed her by her apron and held a knife to her stomach, demanding all of the money in the store's cash register.

Officers believe that the suspect was also the culprit of two armed robberies of a Subway restaurant and another Baskin Robbins in late October. In each circumstance, the robber threatened to kill those in the restaurants. The suspect is described as a middle-aged black male around six feet tall. Crime Stoppers of Puget Sound is offering up to a $1,000 reward for any tips that lead to the arrest of the suspect.

Armed Robbery in Seattle, Washington

In Washington, a person commits robbery when they unlawfully take personal property from another person against their will by the use of force or threatened use of immediate force, violence, or fear of injury to that person or someone else.

It's important to note that the degree of force used is irrelevant; whenever a person takes property by use of any degree of force, they can be charged with robbery. A person can commit a robbery without being armed, but being armed with a deadly weapon enhances the penalties that a person can face.

Potential Penalties for Armed Robbery in Seattle

Armed robbery is considered robbery in the first degree, which is a Class A felony in Washington. While first-time offenders may be able to have their penalty reduced, penalties for armed robbery can be quite severe with repeat offenders receiving as long as 15 years in prison. In addition to imprisonment, a person convicted of armed robbery can face a fine of up to $50,000.

Washington state uses a "three strikes" law, which is meant to pose as a warning of what can happen to repeat offenders. Under the law, anyone who has been convicted of three Class A felonies--along with several Class B felonies--must be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Facing an Armed Robbery Charge? We're Here to Help 

If you have been charged with armed robbery in the Seattle area, it's critical to seek the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible after your arrest. You should never try to defend against a charge of armed robbery on your own--and with Steve Karimi by your side, you never have to. The criminal defense team at the Law Offices of Steve Karimi is dedicated to providing the competent representation you need to defend against your criminal charge. Don't wait until it is too late to obtain the legal help you need--to schedule a free consultation to speak with Steve Karimi about your charge, fill out an online contact form or call (206) 621-8777 today.