On June 21, 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a ruling holding that attempted Hobbs Act robbery is not a crime of violence.
After a drug-deal-turned-robbery in 2003, Justin Taylor pled guilty to conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery and use of a firearm in furtherance of a “crime of violence.” Taylor was convicted of using a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
The Hobbs Act “makes it a federal crime to commit, attempt to commit, or conspire to commit a robbery with an interstate component.” 18 U.S.C. § 1951(a).
Taylor’s argument, which was accepted by the Supreme Court, was that an attempted Hobbs Act robbery should not qualify as a crime of violence “because no element of the offense requires proof that the defendant used, attempted to use, or threatened to use force.” United States v. Taylor, 596 U.S. ___ (2022).
As with all areas of criminal law, there are many nuances when it comes to the Hobbs Act, crimes of violence, and federal crimes. If you are facing criminal charges or worried that charges may be forthcoming, reach out to one of our attorneys to discuss your options.