3.30.11: Haines Convicted of Attempted Murder for Failed Attempt to Kill Acquaintance
March 30, 2011 -- A Baltimore City Circuit Court jury convicted Andre K. Haines yesterday of first-degree attempted murder, two counts of first-degree assault, and handgun offenses for his failed effort to kill a neighborhood acquaintance in June 2010, which resulted in three people suffering gunshot wounds.
On the evening of June 26 last year, Haines left his Guilford Avenue home, walked a short distance down his block, approached a man who was standing with family and friends, and opened fire on him at a distance of just two feet, yelling "You think you're better than me" as he did so. He discharged his handgun eight times in all.
The target, Antoine Free, attempted to flee, but he was shot three times and collapsed a short distance away. Also struck in the attack were Diara Matthews and David Hunter, 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.
"This important conviction demonstrates not only our commitment to prosecuting selected cases where there is only one eyewitness, but also our ability to win them," State's Attorney Gregg L. Bernstein said.
Scheduled to be sentenced on May 24, 2011, Haines, 31, faces a maximum of life plus 133 years in prison.
Assistant State's Attorney Angela Worthy prosecuted the case.