In the state of Pennsylvania, certain crimes carry a mandatory minimum sentence. While the constitutionality of mandatory minimums has been recently challenged (See Alleyne v. United States), they are still used in court.
Mandatory minimums come into play on a regular basis. Here is a list of some “mando mins.” This list is not exhaustive. If you have questions call the Law Office of Mark D. Copoulos.
- Murder of the first degree – Death or life imprisonment
- Murder of a law enforcement officer of the first degree – Death or life imprisonment
- First degree murder of an unborn child – Life imprisonment
- Murder of the second degree – Life imprisonment
- Murder of a law enforcement officer of the second degree – Life imprisonment
- Second degree murder of an unborn child – Life imprisonment
- Drug delivery resulting in death – 5 years total confinement
- Assault by life prisoner – Life imprisonment
- Certain drug offenses committed with firearms – 5 years total confinement
- Rape – 5 years imprisonment
- Drug trafficking of Marijuana 2 to <10 lbs. (first conviction) – 1 year
- Drug trafficking of Marijuana 10 to <50 lbs. (first conviction) – 1 year
- 2nd conviction for crime of violence – 10 years
- Sentences for offenses committed on public transportation – 5 years
Source: Pennsylvania Commission on Sentencing & Relevant Materials
