Murder in Louisiana law constitutes the intentional killing, under circumstances defined by law, of people within or under the jurisdiction of the U.S. state of Louisiana.
Louisiana defines homicide in the third degree as manslaughter. There are other specific guidelines: for example, the killing of a police officer or firefighter, or intent to kill more than one person, is automatically a first-degree murder charge. In Louisiana convicted murderers can receive life imprisonment or the death penalty.
The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that in 2020, the state had the second highest murder rate in the country behind Mississippi.
Penalties
| Offense | Mandatory sentencing |
|---|---|
| negligent homicide | Up to five years in prison |
| Manslaughter | Up to 40 years in prison |
| Second-degree murder | Life without parole |
| First-degree murder | Death or life without parole |
References
- "Louisiana Revised Statutes, Sec. 14:30. First Degree Murder". Louisiana State Legislature. Retrieved September 10, 2017.
- "National Center for Health Statistics: Homicide Mortality by State". Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. February 16, 2021. Retrieved September 24, 2021.
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