Teen convicted in Pa. lawmaker mugging try


June 20, 2012 at 8:39a.m.

Teen convicted in Pa. lawmaker mugging try

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — A Pennsylvania teen has been convicted of robbery in the attempted mugging of a Pittsburgh-area state senator almost two years ago.

Eighteen-year-old Sharief Hand remains behind bars awaiting a July 24 sentencing for the September 2010 mugging of state Sen. Tim Solobay.

Prosecutors say Hand was one of four teens who approached the Washington County Democrat outside his Harrisburg apartment and demanded money. One was armed with a gun.

Hand was arrested nearby after Solobay, a volunteer firefighter, fought back and activated the sirens on his vehicle. Hand was 16 at the time of his arrest but charged as an adult.

Another teen suspected in the heist was acquitted last year.

Solobay thanked police and prosecutors for their handling of the case.