The bill aims to limit the length of probation sentences and the circumstances under which a non-violent offender on probation can be sent to jail, part of a nationwide reconsideration of probation and parole measures.
Pennsylvania is among the states with the highest rates of people under community supervision. Critics say state law doesn’t limit the length of probation sentences and that non-violent offenders are often incarcerated for technical violations that aren’t crimes, disrupting their families and employment.
In a unanimous ruling, the Supreme Court said that people holding a valid medical marijuana card are immune from “arrest, prosecution or penalty in any manner” under state law, even if they are under a court’s supervision.
The Attorney General’s office says Jimmie Cortelyou, 41, changed the way Northumberland County counted and deposited house arrest funds in the attempt to pad his personal account.
