Shooter who opened fire on cops sentenced to decades in prison
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Shooter who opened fire on cops sentenced to decades in prison

by
December 2, 2025
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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.

Shooter who opened fire on cops sentenced to decades in prison
Photo: shooter who opened fire on cops sentenced to decades in prison

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
Local News Report

Local News Report

Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News