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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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State
Rep. Matt Smith |
   
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Rep. Smith proposes first-degree murder sentencing for those who attack disabled or elderly
MT. LEBANON, May 23 – State Rep. Matt Smith, D-Allegheny, today convened a news conference to announce legislation he's proposing that would make the age or disability status of a victim – namely if the victim is over 60 or has a disability – an aggravating circumstance in sentencing for first-degree murder.
Smith and a large group of co-sponsors and supporters explained the need for changing the state's first-degree murder sentencing procedures with Smith's legislation (H.B. 2464). Currently, families of murder victims can only address juries during murder sentencing procedures if the crime falls under the state's list of aggravating circumstances. Smith's proposal would add the victim's age and condition to that list.
The proposal was spurred by a local trial for the brutal murder of an elderly and disabled woman from Upper St. Clair in 2003. The murderer was convicted and sentenced to death this March.
"We all probably recall the brutal murder of Mrs. Jean Heck, a 78-year-old disabled resident whose life was taken when she was viciously attacked by a landscaper for her money," Smith said. "The district attorney and I worked together to develop this proposal that would ensure that the families of these victims have the opportunity to address juries during sentencing hearings. By giving families the ability to talk to a jury, it may make it simpler for juries to adequately punish murderers who prey upon the elderly or disabled."
Smith said he is particularly honored by the support of Andrea Kostella, daughter of Mrs. Heck.
"Our elderly citizens can certainly be considered one of our most valuable assets, deserving of dignity and our respect," Kostella said. "I wholeheartedly support this bill, which would help to ensure their safety and protect their welfare. We are sending a clear message that the society in which we live will not tolerate the senseless crimes committed against our elderly loved ones. I believe it will serve as a significant deterrent in the future and is long overdue."
Smith was joined by several supporters and co-sponsors of his proposal at the Mt. Lebanon Public Safety Building, including state Rep. Mike Turzai, state Sens. Jay Costa and John Pippy, Allegheny County District Attorney Stephen Zappala and Deputy District Attorney Mark Tranquilli.
"As per the last census, Allegheny County was home to more than a quarter of a million people older than 65," Zappala said. "My experience has seen our seniors more regularly becoming targets of criminals. The proposed legislation would not only correct an incomplete age consideration for application of the death penalty, it brings focus to better protecting our older population."
House Bill 2426 awaits consideration by the House Judiciary Committee.
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