Absolutely true- it does not have to be real. Also, the other gentlemen who were involved can be charged with assault, brandishing, armed robbery, felony murder. If one does it, they're all 'guilty', even if they're the get-away driver, lookout, or just helped plan the robbery (conspiracy). I believe felony murder is mandatory life w/o parole.
Just finished up a case in GR in Federal court along the same lines. Had trouble getting that concept through to my fellow jurors, but the judge backed me up. Guilty on all 21 counts.
Darn good shooting. Any info on the weapon? 9mm, 40SW??