Pennsylvania DA Association Backs Off Opposition To Self-Defense Bill

HARRISBURG, Pa. (CBS) - The Pennsylvania District Attorneys Association is backing off in its opposition to legislation that would expand the right to use deadly force in self-defense, legislation that is moving rapidly through the state legislature.

The president of the state DA's association, Dauphin County DA Ed Marsico, says the DA's still believe current law is sufficient, but he says changes have been made to the legislation that address their concerns.

"Our worry all along is going to be that it's going to be exploited by criminal defense attorneys to get guilty criminals who are illegally carrying firearms, illegally using them – to get them off of their charges. And that's what's occurred in a couple of other states."

Marsico says as a result of the changes, he believes Pennsylvania will now have the best expanded self-defense law in the country.

Governor Rendell vetoed the so-called "Castle Doctrine" legislation last year. The Senate passed a new bill this week and the House is expected to take action next month. Governor Corbett supports the legislation in concept.

Reported by Tony Romeo, KYW Newsradio