Write 400-600 words that respond to the following questions about the given scenario with your thoughts, ideas, and comments. Be substantive and clear, and use examples to reinforce your ideas.
- Do you think Tank should be charged by the jury with robbery? Why or why not?
- What elements of robbery exist in the above scenario? Explain.
- What defenses do you think Tank might be able to employ in this case? Explain.
- How do you think this case would differ in civil and criminal courts? Explain.
Scenario:
Tank, who is 6 foot 4 and weighs 300 pounds, is looking for a job. He travels across the city, and after applying for the job, he realizes he does not have enough money to get home. Tank looks rather scruffy and has not had a haircut in several months because he cannot afford one. He approaches John, who is standing alone at a bus stop. Tank asks John, "Do you have any money?" John replies, "Yes." Tank states, "Give me five dollars!" John quickly gives Tank the money. Tank walks away. John sees a police car and flags him down. He points to Tank walking down the street and tells the police, "I've been robbed by that man!" Tank is arrested and charged with robbery. At trial, Tank takes the stand and testifies, "I wasn't trying to rob anybody. I was just trying to beg some money to get myself back home."