Legal Question in Criminal Law in Pennsylvania

Jail time attached to a ''Criminal Trespass'' non traffic citation ?

Went to look at a vacant house for sale today. Bottom door was loose on frame, bumped it open with my knee, looked in house. Neighbor started screaming about calling 911 and went into her house. I got in my truck and called 911 as well, and explained to them where I was, what I was doing, and that I did not want to leave the area if an officer was en route. 911 connected me to PA State Police, who told me to wait there. Officer arrived about 15 minutes later, I met him, explained to him what I had done (not one of the smarter things I've done lately) showed him the spec sheet for the property and gave him the name and phone number of Realtor who had the listing. Admitted what I had done, and was very cooperative with the officer. After 15 minutes in his cruiser, he gave me a ''Non Traffic Citation / Summons'' form, and told me that he was citing me for ''Simple Trespassing'', but the citation says ''Criminal Trespassing'' He said once I pay the fine, that's the end of it. However, I'm concerned if I plead guilty and pay the fine (with which I have no problem) can they also attach a jail sentence to it later ?


Asked on 5/23/09, 9:57 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Brendan Campbell Solomon, Berschler, Warren, Schatz, Flood & Monaghan

Re: Jail time attached to a ''Criminal Trespass'' non traffic citation ?

They can not attach a jail sentence later on. If you pay the fine, there will be no futher penalty because it is a summary offense.

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Answered on 5/26/09, 8:36 am


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