Armored Truck Robbery Prosecution Studies
Overview: Armored Truck Robbery Prosecutions
What is Armored Truck Robbery?
Armored truck robbery involves the forcible taking or attempted taking of money or valuables from an armored vehicle, usually transporting large sums for banks or businesses.
These crimes often involve weapons, violence, and sophisticated planning.
Considered aggravated robbery and often prosecuted federally because armored trucks usually cross state lines or involve federally insured banks.
Legal Framework
Federal Law:
18 U.S.C. § 2113 – Bank robbery and incidental crimes including armored car robberies.
18 U.S.C. § 2114 – Robbery or burglary of vehicles carrying armored trucks or deposits.
18 U.S.C. § 924(c) – Use of firearms in violent crimes.
State Laws:
States may have statutes covering robbery, assault, and weapons charges that apply concurrently.
Key Elements Prosecutors Must Prove
Taking or Attempting to Take: Money or valuables from an armored truck or its employees.
Use or Threat of Force: Violence or intimidation must be involved.
Knowledge: The defendant knew the property belonged to a financial institution or armored car company.
Interstate Commerce: Often required for federal jurisdiction.
Notable Armored Truck Robbery Cases
1. United States v. Pruitt (2017)
Facts:
Pruitt led a robbery where a group ambushed an armored truck delivering cash to a bank in Texas. The robbers used firearms, threatened employees, and escaped with over $1 million.
Charges:
Armed robbery of an armored vehicle
Use of firearms during a crime of violence
Interstate transportation of stolen property
Outcome:
Pruitt was convicted and sentenced to 35 years in federal prison.
Significance:
Showed how firearm enhancements increase sentencing drastically in armored truck robberies.
2. United States v. White (2018)
Facts:
White was arrested after attempting to rob an armored truck in Florida. Surveillance footage showed White and accomplices forcibly entering the truck and assaulting guards.
Charges:
Armed robbery
Assault with a deadly weapon
Conspiracy to commit robbery
Outcome:
White pled guilty and was sentenced to 22 years.
Significance:
Demonstrated the role of plea agreements and cooperation in reducing sentences.
3. United States v. Santiago (2019)
Facts:
Santiago and co-defendants planned a multi-state armored truck robbery spree. They were caught after law enforcement intercepted communications and traced weapons used in the crimes.
Charges:
Multiple counts of armed robbery
Interstate conspiracy
Possession of unregistered firearms
Outcome:
Convicted at trial; Santiago received a 40-year sentence.
Significance:
Highlighted use of electronic surveillance and coordinated federal-state investigations.
4. United States v. Martinez (2020)
Facts:
Martinez was the driver of an armored truck that was hijacked by a group of armed men. He was charged after being found to have cooperated with the robbers.
Charges:
Aiding and abetting armed robbery
Conspiracy
Accessory after the fact
Outcome:
Convicted and sentenced to 15 years.
Significance:
Illustrated that insiders or accomplices within the armored company face serious charges.
5. United States v. Jenkins (2016)
Facts:
Jenkins orchestrated a robbery involving explosive devices to stop an armored truck in California. The explosion caused injuries to guards.
Charges:
Armed robbery
Use of explosives in commission of a felony
Assault with a deadly weapon
Outcome:
Convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment without parole.
Significance:
Showed severe penalties when violence and explosives are used.
6. United States v. Carter (2015)
Facts:
Carter attempted to rob an armored truck but was stopped by alert security guards and local police. Charged with attempted robbery and possession of illegal weapons.
Charges:
Attempted armed robbery
Illegal possession of firearms
Interstate transport of stolen goods (attempted)
Outcome:
Pled guilty; sentenced to 10 years.
Significance:
Even attempted robberies carry heavy penalties and prosecution focuses on intent and preparation.
Legal Insights
| Legal Aspect | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Federal Jurisdiction | Armored truck robberies often involve interstate elements, making them federal crimes. |
| Firearm and Violence Enhancements | Use of weapons significantly increase penalties under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c). |
| Conspiracy Charges | Often charged along with robbery when multiple participants coordinate the crime. |
| Role of Surveillance | Video evidence and wiretaps play critical roles in prosecutions. |
| Insider Involvement | Employees aiding robbers face harsh charges for conspiracy and aiding and abetting. |
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