Ex-Va. gov’s commutation of sentence struck down

NORFOLK, Va. (AP) — Former Gov. Bob McDonnell’s commutation of a juvenile’s six life sentences for armed robbery has been struck down.

U.S. District Judge Arenda Wright Allen ruled that the commutation of Travion Blount’s prison term to 40 years was unconstitutional.

Blount was 15 when he and two 18-year-olds robbed a house party in Norfolk in 2006.

The older teens pleaded guilty and received 10- and 13-year sentences. Blount went to trial and was sentenced to six life terms plus 118 years.

Allen ordered the state to provide further information about juvenile offenders and the state’s program of geriatric release.

The Virginian-Pilot (http://bit.ly/1urjf3r ) says Allen issued her ruling Wednesday.

___

Information from: The Virginian-Pilot, http://pilotonline.com

Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Federal News Network Logo
Log in to your WTOP account for notifications and alerts customized for you.

Sign up