Commonwealth v. Horne

371 A.2d 1024, 247 Pa. Super. 34, 1977 Pa. Super. LEXIS 1652

Opinion

PER CURIAM:

It appearing that consecutive sentences have been imposed separately (1) for the charge of rape and (2) for the charge of statutory rape arising out of the same single episode, the sentences are vacated. This case is remanded to the court below for an initial determination of whether or not defense counsel was ineffective solely in withdrawing post trial motions. If upon remand, it should be determined that trial counsel was not ineffective in withdrawing post trial motions then the court should reimpose a lawful sentence. If, on the other hand, it is determined that counsel was ineffective with respect to withdrawing post trial motions then the court shall allow the refiling of such post trial motions nunc pro tunc with leave to assert additional reasons. After argument upon the refiled motions has been concluded the court should then make such lawful disposition as it might then determine.

If, in this latter disposition, any conviction or convictions should be sustained then the trial court should reimpose a lawful sentence. See Commonwealth v. Walker, 468 Pa. 323, 362 A.2d 227 (1976).