Robbery Charges – Olin College of Engineering
Student Criminal Defense in Dedham District Court
Being accused of robbery as a college student is one of the most serious legal situations you can face. In Massachusetts, robbery is a felony offense that carries mandatory prison exposure and long-term consequences that can permanently derail your education and career.
Me and my team here at The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett defend Olin College of Engineering students accused of robbery, including unarmed and armed robbery, in Dedham District Court. We fight aggressively to protect your freedom, your academic standing, and your future.
The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
Wellesley, Massachusetts Office
572 Washington Street
Wellesley, MA 02482
Phone: 857.229.2442
Cranston, Rhode Island Office
1000 Chapel View Blvd
Cranston, RI 02920
Phone: 401.425.4059
What Is Robbery Under Massachusetts Law?
Robbery is not the same as theft or burglary. Under Massachusetts law, robbery involves taking property directly from another person through force, violence, or intimidation.
Relevant statutes include:
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M.G.L. c. 265 § 19 – Unarmed Robbery
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M.G.L. c. 265 § 17 – Armed Robbery
The key legal elements are:
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Intent to steal
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Use of force or fear
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Taking property from a person or their immediate control
Even minimal physical contact or verbal threats can elevate a case from larceny to robbery.
Common Robbery Allegations Involving College Students
Olin College students may face robbery accusations in situations such as:
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Group altercations where property is taken
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Disputes over phones, laptops, or personal items
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Dorm or party confrontations involving threats or pushing
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Off-campus incidents involving peers or acquaintances
You do not need to personally take property or carry a weapon to be charged. Joint venture liability allows prosecutors to charge multiple people involved in the incident.
Criminal Penalties for Robbery in Massachusetts
Robbery is always charged as a felony.
Potential penalties include:
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Unarmed robbery: Up to life in prison
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Armed robbery: Mandatory minimum of 5 years in state prison, up to life
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Ineligibility for CWOFs or pretrial diversion in most cases
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Permanent felony record if convicted
Robbery cases involving Olin College students are handled at:
Dedham District Court
631 High Street
Dedham, MA 02026
Early intervention is critical to avoiding catastrophic outcomes.
Olin College Code of Conduct and Robbery Allegations
Olin College treats allegations involving violence or coercion with extreme seriousness. Under its Honor Code and student conduct policies, robbery allegations may lead to:
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Immediate interim suspension
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Removal from campus housing
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Restrictions from classes, labs, or facilities
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Disciplinary hearings that can result in expulsion
The college may act independently of the criminal court, even if charges are reduced or dismissed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it robbery if there was only a shove or threat?
Yes. Any use of force or intimidation connected to taking property can qualify as robbery.
Can I be charged if I didn't take anything myself?
Yes. Prosecutors often charge students as joint venturers if they were present or allegedly assisted others.
Will this affect my enrollment or housing?
Yes. Robbery accusations frequently trigger interim measures that remove students from housing or campus.
Can robbery charges be sealed later?
Robbery convictions are extremely difficult to seal. The goal is to avoid a conviction entirely.
Defense Strategies for Robbery Charges
Me and my team build strategic defenses that may include:
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Challenging whether force or threats actually occurred
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Disputing intent to steal
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Identifying misidentification or false accusations
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Separating your conduct from group behavior
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Negotiating reduction to lesser charges such as larceny
We also coordinate criminal defense with Olin College disciplinary and Title IX proceedings.
Why Olin College Students Choose The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
Me and my team here at The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett understand how devastating felony charges can be for students. We provide:
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Aggressive defense against serious felony allegations
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Regular representation in Dedham District Court
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Experience handling cases involving college disciplinary systems
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A focused strategy aimed at protecting your future, not just your case
Contact The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett Immediately
The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
572 Washington Street
Wellesley, MA 02482
Phone: 857.229.2442
1000 Chapel View Blvd
Cranston, RI 02920
Phone: 401.425.4059
If you or your child is facing robbery charges connected to Olin College of Engineering, time is critical. Contact me today for a confidential consultation and immediate legal protection.
