What is the statute of limitations for a felony offense?

In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for a felony offense is indeed five years. This means that the prosecution has a period of five years from the date of the commission of the felony to file charges. This time frame allows for the gathering of evidence and the preparation of the case, ensuring that individuals are not prosecuted for crimes indefinitely, which upholds the principles of justice and fairness.

Understanding the statute of limitations is crucial because it establishes a deadline by which legal action must be initiated. If charges are not brought within this five-year period, the opportunity to prosecute the alleged offender may be lost, barring certain circumstances that could toll or pause the statute of limitations.