In Cumberland County, a strangulation charge isn’t always a misdemeanor — it’s often filed as a felony from the very start. The result? You’re looking at serious prison time, even if no one was physically injured. 
The law — 18 Pa.C.S. § 2718 — upgrades strangulation to a felony of the second degree if the alleged victim is someone you live with, have dated, or are related to. So in domestic disputes in Camp Hill, New Cumberland, or Shippensburg, these charges are almost always felonies.
They can become even more serious — felonies of the first degree — if:
- A PFA or SVPO is already in place
- A weapon or household object was allegedly used
- You’ve had prior convictions for similar conduct
First-degree felonies carry up to 20 years in prison — and they’re often filed in cases where the evidence is weak, contradictory, or nonexistent.
At The McShane Firm, we’ve defended clients in every courtroom from Carlisle to Lower Allen. We know how the Cumberland County courts operate. More importantly, we know how to challenge these felony enhancements and push back hard against aggressive charging decisions.
If you’ve been charged with felony strangulation, we can help. Call now.
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This is our promise to you. Call today to get us on your side: (717) 657-3900.
