DAUPHIN COUNTY, Pa. (WHP) — Sonya McKnight, the former Dauphin County judge convicted of shooting her sleeping ex-boyfriend in the face, was sentenced Wednesday to 13.5 to 30 years in prison. She also announced the resignation of her judgeship duties.
McKnight was found guilty of attempted murder and aggravated assault in April of this year, stemming from the shooting that happened in February of 2024.
Her boyfriend, Michael McCoy, woke up that night with what he called "excruciating pain," thinking he was having a brain aneurysm.
The 57-year-old's defense attorney called seven witnesses to present their final comments on her character and service to the county in Wednesday's sentencing hearing.
The judge explained that the new sentencing guidelines benefit her, as the time she's already served will count towards the minimum of 13 years.
McKnight and her defense have ten days to file a post-sentence motion, meaning Leshner may challenge the final sentencing for the judge to dent or consider in 120 days.