Simi Valley police investigate bank robbery

Simi Valley police were investigating a bank robbery that occurred Sunday afternoon.

The incident was reported about 4:25 p.m. in the U.S. Bank in Albertsons grocery store, 5135 Los Angeles Ave..

The man went to the teller and used a note to demand money. He said he had a gun, but the weapon was not seen.

The man, who is described as in his 20s, took about $2,100 and left the area on foot. Officers and K-9 units searched the area but could not find him.

No one was injured in the incident.

If you or someone you know is being charged with robbery, immediately contacting a criminal defense lawyer is likely the most important thing you can do. These are felony offenses that may land you with significant prison time if you are convicted, depending on the circumstances of the offense.

Robbery is defined as committing theft from the victim's immediate presence or person, accomplished by force, threats or violence. This offense may be punishable by 2 to 9 years in prison. Armed robbery is a more serious version of this crime, committed when a person commits robbery while armed with a deadly weapon. Under California's 10-20-life law, a defendant may face an additional 10 years in prison for displaying a gun, 20 years for firing a fun and 25 years to life for causing serious injury to another person with a gun. Robbery and armed robbery are also considered "strike" offenses under the state's Three Strikes Law.

If you are facing robbery or armed robbery charges and this is your third strike, you already know how important your defense is. You can't afford to hire an attorney who doesn't have a proven record of success. Contact Ventura County Criminal Defense Attorney Robert Helfend for your best chance at a favorable outcome.