Data relating to 2018 indicates that there were roughly 2,724 incidents of assault reported in Montgomery County. Charges of aggravated assault involve intentional acts that can result in bodily harm. This harm or injury may impair someone's physical well-being, may result in significant pain, and also lead to disfigurement. It may also involve the usage of a lethal weapon that is capable of creating severe injury or death.
The Pennsylvania Uniform Crime Reporting data analyzes various aspects of aggravated assault charges in the state during 2017.
|
Type of Aggravated Assault |
Number of Cases |
Percent of Total |
|
Involving a Firearm |
4,758 |
20.4 % |
|
Involving a Knife or Sharp Object |
3,254 |
14 % |
|
Usage of “Other” Weapon |
5,131 |
22 % |
|
Involving Hands, Feet, etc. |
10,166 |
43.6 % |
Defining Aggravated Assault
Offenses of aggravated assault (§ 2702) are serious felony charges that are defined as follows:
- Attempts to inflict bodily harm on another individual, or knowingly or recklessly shows complete indifference for the safety of others
- Attempts to create bodily harm on another individual, or knowingly or recklessly shows complete indifference for the safety of “officers, agents, and employees” while “acting in the scope of their employment” or “because of their employment” including:
- Those from the police department, fire department, correctional institutions, or sheriff's department
- County officials such as parole and probation officers, members of the district attorney's office, and the court systems
- Members of the state government and state agencies
- Members of the federal government and federal agencies
- Those associated with schools, the school board, or the Department of Education
- Attempts to create bodily harm on another individual knowingly or recklessly by usage of a “deadly” weapon
- Uses noxious gas or “electronic incapacitation device” on any of the aforementioned parties
- Adults who attempt to create bodily harm on children
Penalties and Sentencing
Charges of aggravated assault are classified as being either a first or second-degree felony based on certain factors involved with the alleged offense. These charges should not be confused with the charge of “simple assault”--a misdemeanor charge. First-degree felonies are those that may result in up to 20 years of imprisonment and a fine of $25,000. Felonies of the second-degree also may lead to fines of up to $25,000; however, the maximum prison sentence is 10 years.
Factors in Sentencing
The provisions that the state publishes to assist courts with the calculation of sentences are somewhat complex and are currently volatile. In response to strong advocacy from various interests and groups, the criminal justice provisions are undergoing some changes. Some of the factors that may impact the terms and severity of penalties that are imposed include the defendant's previous criminal history, the age of the victim, the severity of injuries, and others.
Montgomery County Aggravated Assault Defense Attorney
Those who are facing first or second-degree felony charges have their freedom and their future at risk. The LLF Law Firm is committed to defending the rights of its clients by crafting a strategic defense that can result in positive outcomes in these matters. Contact the office today for a case evaluation at (888) 535-3686 to ensure your best interests are being protected.
