HARRISBURG — The Pennsylvania Supreme Court has ruled that mandatory life sentences without parole for second-degree murder are unconstitutional. The decision effects cases where a death occurs during the commission of a felony.
According to the Associated Press, the court says sentencing must consider a defendant’s level of involvement and culpability. Officials note some convictions involve individuals who did not directly commit or intend the killing.
The governor supports the ruling, calling the law unjust. The court has paused implementation for 120 days, giving lawmakers time to establish new sentencing guidelines.
The post Court Strikes Mandatory Life Sentences In Pennsylvania first appeared on Newsradio 1070 WKOK.
