5.27.11: Haines Sentenced for Failed Effort to Kill Acquaintance
May 27, 2011 -- Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Martin P. Welch sentenced Andre K. Haines today to 50 years in prison for his failed effort to murder a neighborhood acquaintance in June 2010, which also resulted in gunshot wounds for two bystanders.
On June 26, 2010, Haines left his Guilford Avenue home, walked a short distance down the block, approached a man who was standing with family and friends, and opened fire on him at a distance of just two feet, yellign "You think you're better than me" as he did so. He took eight shots.
The target, Antoine Free, attempted to flee, but was shot three times and collapse a short distance away. Also struck in the attack were Diara Matthews and David Hunger, who were talking with friends at the end of the block. Free underwent two surgeries as a result of his injuries. Matthews and Hunter both suffered graze wounds.
Having grown up near Haines, Free recognized his shooter, identified him during the investigation, and then served as the only eyewitness against him at trial.
A jury convicted Haines in March of first-degree attempted murder, two counts of first-degree assault, and handgun offenses.
Assistant State's Attorney Angela Worthy prosecuted the case.