This bill proposes amendments to the penalty for voluntary manslaughter under West Virginia law, specifically in section 61-2-4 of the Code of West Virginia, 1931. The current penalty of imprisonment for voluntary manslaughter, which ranges from three to fifteen years, will be increased to a range of five to twenty-five years. Additionally, the bill stipulates that individuals convicted of voluntary manslaughter will not be eligible for parole until they have served a minimum of five years of their sentence or the minimum period required by existing law, whichever is greater.

The changes reflect a significant increase in both the minimum and maximum sentences for voluntary manslaughter, aiming to impose stricter penalties for this crime. The bill underscores the legislature's intent to enhance accountability and deter such offenses by extending the duration of imprisonment and adjusting parole eligibility.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 61-2-4