The circumstances of Michigan families can sometimes drive individuals to do things they would not have done if circumstances were different. This is especially true when there are children involved. A 23-year-old father is facing charges related to weapons crimes after he allegedly robbed a credit union. He claims that it was a desperate attempt to get funds to pay the medical costs of his daughter.
According to a police report, the accused man entered a Michigan credit union and handed the teller a demanding note. The report states that the note indicated that he had a concealed shotgun. It further states that the firearm was never revealed, and, according to the accused, he only used that as a threat and did not have a weapon with him.
Following his arrest, the man reportedly told officers that his 1-year-old daughter has to receive chemotherapy treatments for retinoblastoma. He asserted that his medical insurance was exhausted and would not make further payments for the treatment. Her next treatment was imminent, and he claims to have become desperate.
The man was charged with bank robbery and armed robbery, and he is on a $500,000 bond while he is awaiting his arraignment. Whenever a Michigan individual is accused of weapons crimes, it may be beneficial to retain the services of an experienced criminal defense attorney. A lawyer will likely have understanding for the circumstances that drove the client to commit the offense, and he or she can provide support and counsel throughout the legal proceedings, aiming to achieve the best possible outcome.
Source: ABC News, "Accused Bank Robber Says He Stole for Daughter's Chemotherapy Treatments", Gillian Mohney, Aug. 26, 2015