Bill Could Toughen Some Murder Sentences

State Representative Matt Smith is co-sponsoring a bill that consider a victim's age and disabilities as potential aggravating circumstances in sentencing for first-degree murder. The presence of aggravating circumstances can lead to stiffer sentences. The bill was inspired by the murder of 78-year-old Jean Heck in 2003. The Upper St. Clair woman was strangled and beaten in her home by a landscaper who had been working there. Smith says he has bi-partisan support for his bill.