Estes Robbery

In California, an Estes Robbery is a robbery that occurs when a shoplifter or thief tries to take some merchandise from a store (liquor, department, or grocery store) and is approached by store security or loss prevention and the shoplifter either pushes past the security guard or in any way uses force to get away. Essentially, it is a robbery whereby the original taking (of the goods or merchandise) is non-forcible but the thief subsequently uses force to retain possession of the goods. An Estes Robbery is a serious charge and is considered a “Strike” under California’s Three Strikes Law. Estes Robbery originated from a 1983 California case, People v. Estes 147 Cal. App.3d 23.

In an Estes Robbery, California prosecutors will charge a First degree robbery or 211 PC, referring to Penal Code section 211. First degree robbery is punishable by 3, 4, or 6 years in state prison. Use of a gun during the robbery could add 10 years to the robbery sentence. If a gun is discharged during the robbery, an additional 20 years is added. If someone is injured or killed with a gun during the robbery, add an additional 25 years to life to the robbery sentence. Consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney if you are being investigated or charged with an Estes Robbery.