Attempted murder charge reestablished
The Legislature has reestablished the charge of attempted murder in Mississippi, with a penalty of 20 years to life.
“This bill is good for Mississippi and very bad for attempted murderers,” said its author, Sen. Will Longwitz, R-Madison. “It’s just common sense, and it will keep us all safer. Victims and their families deserve to know that their attacker is being put away for the actual crime he committed.”
Mississippi has long had an attempted murder charge on the books, but years ago the penalty was limited to 10 year in prison. As a result, prosecutors instead used aggravated assault charges, which carry up to a 20-year sentence. Under the new legislation, which Gov. Phil Bryant is expected to sign into law, prosecutors can seek up to a life sentence for attempted murder.
Geoff Pender
4/3/13
Magnolia Tribune
