Middletown man sentenced to eight years in prison for attempted armed robbery — Jail Cell - File Photo

A Middletown man was sentenced to eight years in state prison Monday for attempting to rob a smoke shop with a knife in July, Orange County District Attorney David M. Hoovler announced.

Fritznel Beauchamps, 47, previously pleaded guilty to attempted robbery in the first degree for the July 9 incident in the City of Middletown. Prosecutors said Beauchamps entered the business during the late evening hours and threatened an employee at knifepoint, demanding money from the register.

“Give me all the money in the register or I will kill you,” Beauchamps reportedly said during the attempted robbery, according to court documents and statements. The employee was able to back away and escape unharmed. Beauchamps fled the store before police arrived.

At his plea hearing, Beauchamps admitted to attempting to forcibly steal property and to threatening the immediate use of a knife during the incident. He was sentenced to eight years in prison followed by five years of post-release supervision.

Repeat robbery convictions influence sentencing decision

According to the Orange County District Attorney’s Office, Beauchamps has three prior robbery-related convictions. District Attorney Hoovler emphasized the seriousness of Beauchamps’ criminal history in the court’s decision.

“Repeat offenders who commit violent crimes deserve lengthy prison sentences,” Hoovler said. “The sentence imposed in this case reflects both the dangerous nature of this defendant’s admitted conduct, as well as the lengthy nature of his criminal history.”

The case was investigated by the City of Middletown Police Department with support from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office and the Hudson Valley Crime Analysis Center. Assistant District Attorney Michael Roche prosecuted the case.

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Officials stated that Beauchamps’ incarceration is expected to enhance public safety in Middletown during his sentence.

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