Can You Get Arrested For Planning A Crime In Rockland County?

In December of 2024, multiple sources reported that a man had been arrested for simply planning a robbery in Rockland County. For the casual observer, it might seem unthinkable to face consequences for a crime that never actually occurred. However, it is important to recognize the concept of “conspiracy” in this context. What can you do if you face conspiracy charges in Rockland County?

Man Jailed in Rockland County After Planning Robbery and Assault 

MSN reports that a man had been incarcerated in the Rockland County jail after allegedly planning a robbery and assault. The man was on parole for committing similar felonies, and he is accused of recruiting a group of co-conspirators to carry out the planned robbery/assault.

One of these recruits was a juvenile, and the teen’s involvement led to additional charges for the defendant. Police say that they established probable cause to arrest the defendant, but they did not reveal what information they uncovered during the investigation.

However, the authorities reported that the alleged target was an employee of a local business. He now faces consequences for violating his parole, conspiracy, criminal solicitation, and endangering the welfare of a child.

How Do Conspiracy Charges Work in New York? 

If you plan a crime with at least one other individual and you take an “overt act” during this planning process, you may face conspiracy charges. For example, you might provide your co-conspirators with weapons in preparation for an armed robbery. You might also plan out your getaway route and select a suitable vehicle.

Penalties for conspiracy depend on the underlying crime. If you planned a relatively minor crime, the additional conspiracy charge should also be fairly minimal. However, you can expect much more serious penalties for conspiracy if the underlying offense is a serious felony.

Is Conspiracy as Bad as Committing a Real Crime? 

In some cases (particularly those involving federal offenses), the penalties for conspiracy can be just as severe as the “incomplete” crime itself. For example, it is possible to face a life sentence for federal conspiracy.

That being said, many aggravating circumstances that heighten penalties can only occur if a real crime takes place. For example, assault becomes much worse if someone suffers serious injuries. Even if you plan to seriously injure someone, you may not face heightened penalties because the individual never actually suffered real injuries. Speak with an experienced defense attorney for more guidance on this complex subject.

Can a Rockland County Defense Attorney Help With Conspiracy Charges? 

A Rockland County criminal defense attorney may be able to help with conspiracy charges. While it might seem unfair to face consequences for a crime you never actually committed, you must take these charges seriously. To learn more about potential defense strategies, consider speaking with Phillip J. Murphy, Attorney at Law today.

Sources: 

msn.com/en-us/news/crime/parolee-plots-assault-robbery-in-rockland-county-cops/ar-AA1wM0iZ

midhudsonnews.com/2024/12/31/sloatsburg-man-charged-with-plotting-assault-and-robbery/