Submit your claim details for a free, no obligation case review.
Get Started:
Florida’s House of Representatives unanimously passed a bill to increase the penalties for individuals convicted of murder or attempted murder of a law enforcement officer.
Mandatory Life Imprisonment
Under the proposed measure, a life sentence would be mandatory for killing or trying to kill an officer. Currently, a first, second, or third degree murder conviction carries a penalty ranging from 22.5 years to life imprisonment, and attempted murder carries 7.5 to 30 years.
Bill Draws Criticism
Though the bill won unanimous support in the House, it has drawn some criticism. Opponents claim that the law is unnecessary because penalties are already considerable for most offenders. They also argue that the law will deter plea bargains and force more cases to trial.
“This is unnecessary legislation that accomplishes only two purposes: it makes the sponsor look tough on crime and it makes the cost of prosecuting and defending these cases skyrocket,” said A. Russell Smith of the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.
Senate Bill
A similar bill in the state Senate has unanimously passed two of three committee votes, but has yet to reach the floor.
(Source: The Florida Times-Union)
Facing murder charges? You need a skilled criminal defense attorney on your side. Contact us today to talk to an experienced attorney near you.
Copyright © 2001 - 2012 Online Lawyer Source
ATTORNEY ADVERTISEMENT—Thank you for your visit. The content published on this website was not written by medical professionals and should not, at any point, be mistaken for medical advice. Furthermore, the information on this site is intended for educational purposes only and should never interfere with a patient/site visitor and his or her healthcare provider. In addition, viewing the content on this website, requesting additional information, or transmitting information through a contact form should never be considered the formation of an attorney-client relationship. The material published on this site is general and may not apply to your specific circumstances. Every case comes with its own set of unique circumstances; past success discussed on this site does not guarantee future performance. Information found on this website should not be used as incentive to act without seeking counsel from a professional. For more information, please read our disclaimer.