AP-PA--Pennsylvania News Coverage Advisory, PA

No budget deal in sight as Pennsylvania Senate reconvenes

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Prosecutors say they may upgrade murder charges against a Kansas man and wife accused in the death of a child who authorities believe is the man's missing 7-year-old son and may have been fed to pigs. Wyandotte County Deputy District Attorney Sheri Lidtke told a judge Tuesday that charges against Michael and Heather Jones may be upgraded to premeditated first-degree murder in the coming weeks. She didn't say what evidence prosecutors may have to support the new charge, which carries a minimum 50-year prison sentence. The Joneses are currently charged with felony murder, which carries a life sentence but parole eligibility after 20 years. Authorities found remains of a juvenile on the family's property in November. Tests to identify the remains are pending. Another hearing is scheduled for April 8.

Prosecutor: Stiffer charges mulled in Kansas child's death