East Huntingdon man sentenced up to 44 years for firing at state troopers and neighbor’s home
Greensburg, PA — A 63-year-old man from East Huntingdon Township will spend up to 44 years in state prison after being sentenced Monday for opening fire on Pennsylvania State Police troopers and shooting into a nearby home during a standoff in early 2024.
James Miller was convicted in September on 18 counts, including aggravated assault and assault on law enforcement, for the January shooting that began when a bullet was fired into the attic of a neighbor’s home on Cedar Drive. Troopers responded to the report and were standing outside Miller’s residence on Porter Avenue when he emerged holding a rifle.
Despite repeated commands to drop the weapon, Miller fired two rounds at close range — about 10 to 15 yards away from the troopers — and pointed the rifle directly at them. He was then shot in the chest by troopers and taken into custody. No law enforcement officers were injured during the exchange.
Common Pleas Judge Scott Mears handed down the 22-to-44-year prison sentence. Westmoreland County District Attorney Nicole W. Ziccarelli praised Assistant District Attorney Anthony Iannamorelli for leading the prosecution and securing the conviction.
The case is now closed, with Miller set to serve decades behind bars for the violent encounter.
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Key Points
- James Miller was sentenced to 22 to 44 years in prison for firing at state troopers and into a neighbor’s home
- The shooting occurred in January on Porter Avenue in East Huntingdon Township
- Troopers were unharmed; Miller was shot and later convicted on 18 counts