Dolliver

In the process of robbing a jewelry store, appellants Dolliver and Seide confined the store owner, an employee, and a customer to a small bathroom in the store. In a nonjury trial they were found guilty as charged of robbery and two counts of false imprisonment. In addition, each appellant was found to have personally used a firearm and to have suffered two prior felony convictions. Each appellant was sentenced to state prison for fifteen years, consisting of a midterm of three years for robbery, two years for use of a firearm, and five years each for their two prior felony convictions pursuant to Penal Code section 667, subdivision (a). Remaining portions of the sentence were stayed pursuant to Penal Code section 654.

Vincent Romo owned and operated Romo Jewelers located at Artesia Boulevard and Van Ness in Torrance. About 11 a.m. on November 16, 1983, he was in the store with his employee, Natalie Eldridge, and a customer, Friedwald Lewin. Appellant Seide entered the store and asked to see a ring for about $150. Mr. Romo and Mr. Lewin went to a back room while Ms. Eldridge helped Seide at a display case.

Seide then grabbed Ms. Eldridge by the neck and pushed her into…