Current News and Press http://www.stattorney.org http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Wed, 2 Jul 2008 07:44:21 -0400 Wed, 2 Jul 2008 07:42:18 -0400 FeedForAll v2.0 (2.0.2.9) http://www.feedforall.com
DANNTA HOLMES SENTENCED TO 6 YEARS FOR VIOLATING PROBATION

COLLABORATIVE EFFORT IN NORTHWEST DISTRICT IDENTIFIES PROBATION VIOLATORS FOR PROSECUTION

Baltimore, MD – July 1, 2008 – At a hearing today, Judge Timothy Doory found Dannta Holmes 29, of 1200 block of Shields Street, guilty of violating his probation following a 2005 possession with intent to distribute conviction and sentenced him to six-years in prison. On August 16, 2005 Dannta Holmes, was found guilty of CDS possession, and was sentenced to a 9-year prison term, suspend all with 3-years supervised probation.

Today’s conviction was the result of a team effort by local, state and federal law enforcement partners working together in Baltimore’s high-crime neighborhoods to reduce violence; including the Western and Northwest police districts. Today’s partners include: the Baltimore Police Department, the Maryland Division or Parole & Probation, the Mayor’s Office and the Baltimore State’s Attorney’s Office. Assistant State’s Attorney Nancy Olin of the State’s Attorney’s Collateral Division prosecuted the case.

Holmes’ violation of probation was triggered after he failed to obey all of the conditions of supervision and was re-arrested on a trespassing charge.

Today’s hearing highlights the continued emphasis on the identification and prosecution of repeat offenders in Baltimore on supervised parole or probation who commit new offenses or technical violations.

### ]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/712008.htm PRESS RELEASE B3D7547B-BAFA-4C2A-8603-98EBE1EA4295 Wed, 2 Jul 2008 07:42:18 -0400
EDDIE LEVAR HAWKINS SENTENCED TO 35-YEARS SUSPEND ALL BUT 20-YEARS IN PRISON FOLLOWING SECOND-DEGREE MURDER GUILTY PLEA

Baltimore, MD – June 30, 2008 – At a hearing today, Judge John N. Prevas sentenced Eddie Lavar Hawkins, 30, of the 2200 block of Mount Holly St. to 35-years suspend all but 20-years in prison and five-years probation. The first five years are to be served without the possibility of parole.

Hawkins pled guilty May 9, 2008 to second-degree murder and use of a handgun in the commission of a crime of violence.

On September 2, 2006, at approximately 5am Darren Wilson was found fatally shot in the 3500 block of Lucille Ave. in Northwest Baltimore. Wilson was shot six times and several witnesses identified Hawkins, also known as “Moby,” as the shooter. Wilson and Hawkins had been in a dispute over drug territory.

Assistant State's Attorney Robin Wherely of the Homicide Division prosecuted this case.

### ]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/6302008_3.htm PRESS RELEASE 9C8B5D71-CE8B-4BFA-A769-FBC3740F9B21 Tue, 1 Jul 2008 08:16:45 -0400
BRANDON HOLLAND MURDER TRIAL SCHEDULED TO BEGIN TUESDAY, JULY 1, 2008

Baltimore, MD – June 30, 2008 – The murder trial of Brandon Holland, 26, of the 3800 block of Delverne Road is scheduled to begin 9:30AM tomorrow before Judge Gale E. Rasin, 509 Courthouse East, 111 North Calvert Street.

The Baltimore Grand Jury indicted Holland December 19, 2007 for first-degree murder and handgun charges.

Court documents allege on August 1, 2007 witness(es) identified Holland as the person responsible for a shooting incident in the 2400 block of Westwood Avenue. Carl Eugene Barnes was found shot several times.

Holland remains held without bail at the Baltimore City Detention Center. Assistant State’s Attorney Douglas Guidorizzi will prosecute this case.

### ]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/6302008_2.htm MEDIA ADVISORY E1ADDF19-D9E3-470E-A9AD-A0660D10C25F Tue, 1 Jul 2008 08:13:09 -0400 MEDIA ADVISORY LEWIS LUCAS MURDER TRIAL SCHEDULED TO BEGIN TUESDAY, JULY 1, 2008 <br /> <br /> Baltimore, MD – June 30, 2008 – The murder trial of Lewis Lucas, 24, of the 6200 block of Elliott Street is scheduled to begin 9:30AM tomorrow before Judge Gale E. Rasin, 509 Courthouse East, 111 N. Calvert St. <br /> <br /> The Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Lucas December 10, 2007 for first-degree murder and handgun counts. <br /> <br /> Court documents allege on November 2, 2007, witness(es) identified Lucas as the person responsible for a shooting incident in the 1300 block of Ballard Way. Lawrence Jones, 17, was found lying in the 1400 block of Bonsal Street suffering from a gunshot wound. Lucas and Jones were allegedly arguing about illegal narcotics being sold in the 1300 block of Ballard Way. Lucas allegedly displayed a handgun and fatally shot Jones in the torso before fleeing the scene on foot. <br /> <br /> Lucas remains held without bail at the Baltimore City Detention Center. Assistant State’s Attorney David Grzechowiak <br /> <br /> ### http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/6302008.htm MEDIA ADVISORY 47795A5E-78AD-472C-81FF-ECD8BCA122AF Tue, 1 Jul 2008 08:09:57 -0400 Alton Teel Sentenced to Life Plus Twenty Years for 2007 Murder<br /> <br /> Baltimore, MD – June 28, 2008 – At a sentencing hearing Friday, June 27, Judge Lynn Stewart sentenced Alton Teel, 44, of the 3700 block of Bonview Ave. to life in prison and a consecutive 20-year sentence for a handgun charge. The sentence will run consecutive to any sentence Teel receives following a violation of probation hearing that is pending. <br /> <br /> A Baltimore jury convicted Teel on April 14, 2008 of first-degree murder and use of a handgun in the commission of a crime of violence. <br /> <br /> On February 21, 2007 Teel fired five shots from a .22 - caliber handgun that killed Daniel Savage, 32, in the 1500 block of N. Bradford St. over a drug dispute. <br /> <br /> Assistant State's Attorney Theresa Shaffer of the Homicide Division prosecuted this case. http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/6292008.htm PRESS RELEASE AC99024B-231B-482C-BE5E-47A4F84DA827 Mon, 30 Jun 2008 07:41:48 -0400 PRESS RELEASE <br /> <br /> DAMON SIMPSON PLEADS GUILTY TO SECOND-DEGREE MURDER; SENTENCED TO 25-YEARS IN PRISON SUSPEND ALL BUT 15-YEARS <br /> <br /> Baltimore, MD – June 25, 2008 – At a hearing today Damon Simpson, 16, of the 3300 block of Brighton Street pled guilty to second-degree murder and use of a handgun in the commission of a crime of violence. <br /> <br /> Judge Charles G. Bernstein sentenced Simpson to 25-years in prison suspend all but 15-years, the first five-years to be served without the possibility of parole and five-years probation. <br /> <br /> On March 20, 2007 Simpson, then 15-years old, fatally shot Charles Hargrove multiple times in the 2600 block of Rayner Avenue. <br /> <br /> Assistant State’s Attorney Diana Smith of the Homicide Division prosecuted this case. ### http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/6252008.htm PRESS RELEASE 0DFAE265-8A28-4642-8D78-8E83D1DC26C3 Thu, 26 Jun 2008 08:13:19 -0400
Golden Convicted in May of Murdering Ex-Girlfriend over Gang Affiliation

Baltimore, MD – June 24, 2008 – Judge Timothy J. Doory sentenced Randy Golden, 19, of the 3600 block of St. Victor Street today to life in prison for murder and a consecutive eight-years in prison for a handgun count.

A city jury convicted Golden May 9, 2008 of first-degree murder and use of a handgun in the commission of a crime of violence.

On January 9, 2007 at 12:00PM in the 600 block of Washburn Avenue Golden shot his ex-girlfriend, Melissa Stefanski, once in the back of the head. The shooting took place in broad daylight in the middle of the street. Witnesses testified that two days before the shooting, Golden warned three different people, including the victim’s sisters, that he intended to kill Stefanski. The State asserted that the motive for the shooting was that Stefanski began selling drugs for the Crips, a rival gang of the Bloods, of which Golden is a member. Stefanski’s new boyfriend was also a Crip.

Assistant State’s Attorneys Lisa Phelps of the Homicide Division and Brandis Marsh of the Narcotics Division prosecuted this case.

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/6242008_2.htm PRESS RELEASE 0AE0E67F-5D9E-4B3C-869B-24DBF92898FE Thu, 26 Jun 2008 08:12:17 -0400
Baltimore, MD – June 24, 2008– State’s Attorney Patricia C. Jessamy announced today that Gary Froneberger, 23, of the 4700 block of Williston Street, Baltimore was sentenced by the Honorable Lynn K. Stewart to 10-years in prison following his conviction for second-degree assault and 25-years consecutive for conspiracy to commit first-degree assault for a total sentence of 35-years incarceration following his convictions on these counts on February 27, 2008. The sentences will run consecutive to an 8-year sentence Froneberger is currently serving on 2 cases; a felony drug case and handgun case.

Froneberger was found guilty of second-degree assault and conspiracy to commit first –degree assault on February 27, 2008 by a Baltimore City jury. The jury found Froneberger not guilty of first-degree murder and they were unable to reach a unanimous verdict on second-murder, first-degree assault, conspiracy to murder, and deadly weapon charges.

On February 21, 2005, the victim, Abdul Azziz, also known as ‘Skinny’ was to be picked up by a Mountain Manor Treatment Center transport van for court mandated drug treatment. When the van arrived at his home at approximately 9:30 am, his mother Ms. Taylor, who had just spoken to her son, discovered that he had already left the house. Ms. Taylor became very concerned when her son did not return home that evening. Ms. Taylor continued to search for her son and filed a missing person report on March 8, 2005. As Ms. Taylor continued to search for her son, it became apparent that the last persons to see her son alive were Gary Froneberger, John Linton, and Crystal Ostrowske.

On April 21, 2007, Kenyatta Booze contacted the Police Department advising that he had heard second hand information on the death of Abdul Azziz. Investigation revealed that Gary Froneberger, John Linton, Crystal Ostrowske, and the victim were on the floating pier in the 3300 block of Waterview Avenue on February 21, 2005. Froneberger and Linton began beating up the victim over drug money that the victim owed Froneberger. Linton initially helped Froneberger with the assault by starting to punch the victim. Froneberger made the victim take off his clothes and then pushed him in the water. Froneberger grabbed a long stick and continued to hit the victim over the head in the water, as the victim’s head was in and out of the water. The victim begged Froneberger to stop, begging for his life. Linton asked him to stop but Froneberger continued until the victim failed to resurface. The three left the pier with Froneberger telling Linton and Ostrowske not to say anything.

Froneberger later told a female friend, who had seen all of them together earlier that day that she would never see that little guy again. The victim’s body was never recovered. The victim, age 18 at the time of his disappearance, was close to his family, and has not been seen or heard from since February 21, 2005.

Assistant State’s Attorney Rita Wisthoff-Ito of the Homicide Division represented the State.

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/6242008.htm PRESS RELEASE 733DEFD5-719F-4482-9474-300B2ADC52CD Thu, 26 Jun 2008 08:08:45 -0400 MEDIA ADVISORY <br /> <br /> CHARLES GALLOWAY AND COREY WOODHAMS INDICTED ON ATTEMPTED MURDER AND OTHER CHARGES <br /> <br /> Baltimore, MD – June 23, 2008 – State’s Attorney Patricia C. Jessamy announced today that the Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Charles Galloway, 18, of the 500 block of Gold Street and Corey Woodhams, 19, 1500 block of E. Federal Street for attempted murder and other charges. <br /> <br /> Court documents allege that on May 27, 2208, Galloway and Woodhams are responsible for a stabbing incident at Baltimore and Charles Streets. Shannon Dudley, 23, was stabbed in the chest as he walked to the bus stop in the 100 block of W. Baltimore Street. <br /> <br /> An arraignment is scheduled for July 16, 2008 before Judge Sylvester B. Cox, Room 203 Mitchell Courthouse. <br /> <br /> ### http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/6232008_5.htm 1DB5DC61-F615-4244-9964-C91822284117 Thu, 26 Jun 2008 08:00:18 -0400 MEDIA ADVISORY <br /> <br /> DONIELLE MCCOY INDICTED ON FIRST-DEGREE MURDER <br /> <br /> Baltimore, MD – June 23, 2008 – State’s Attorney Patricia C. Jessamy announced today that the Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Donielle McCoy, 20, of the 1800 block of E. Biddle Street for first-degree murder. <br /> <br /> Court documents allege that on May 14, 2008, McCoy was responsible for a shooting incident in the 300 block of Dallas Court. Marvin Lucas and McCoy were engaged in an altercation when McCoy produced a handgun. The two began struggling over the gun when McCoy shot Lucas. He died later as a result of his injuries at Johns Hopkins Hospital.<br /> <br /> An arraignment is scheduled for July 15, 2008 before Judge W. Michel Pierson, Room 329 Courthouse East. <br /> <br /> ### http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/6232008_5.htm MEDIA ADVISORY 42B5FD31-AA93-435F-9E0C-51B663A5B012 Thu, 26 Jun 2008 07:59:33 -0400 PRESS RELEASE <br /> <br /> TAVON HENSON INDICTED FOR FIRST DEGREE MURDER <br /> <br /> Baltimore, MD – June 23, 2008 – State’s Attorney Patricia C. Jessamy announced today that the Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Tavon Henson , 19 of the 1600 block of N. Monroe St. on charges of first-degree murder, first and second-degree assault and related handgun charges. <br /> <br /> Court documents allege on April 1, 2008 Tavon Henson and another male were identified as the persons discharging firearms in the 800 block of N. Franklintown Road. Charging documents further allege when police responded to the scene of the shooting, they found Darius Bunch on a playground unresponsive and suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Mr. Bunch later succumbed to his injuries at Shock Trauma. <br /> <br /> An arraignment is scheduled for July 16, 2008 before Judge Sylvester Cox, Room 203 Mitchell Courthouse. <br /> <br /> ### http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/6232008_4.htm PRESS RELEASE A2F17C07-6DE7-4D3F-A246-8BAADC34F3A2 Thu, 26 Jun 2008 07:53:47 -0400
DAVID JAMES MARSHALL FIRST-DEGREE MURDER TRIAL SCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2008

Baltimore, MD – June 23, 2008 – The murder trial of David James Marshall, 17, of the 200 block of S. Calhoun St. is scheduled for 9:30AM tomorrow before Judge John P. Miller, 428 Mitchell Courthouse, 110 N. Calvert St.

The Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Marshall and Wayne Morris, 22, May 5, 2006 for first-degree murder, two counts of robbery deadly weapon and four counts of kidnapping.

The court ordered that co-defendant Wayne Morris’ case be severed from Marshall’s case and his trial is scheduled to begin at the conclusion of Morris’ trial.

Court documents allege that on April 20, 2006 at 1404 Kuper Street, Marshall and Morris broke into the house, announced a robbery, and shot and killed an occupant of the home, Robert Atkinson, 47.

Marshall and Morris remain held without bail in the Baltimore City Detention Center. Assistant State’s Attorney Theresa Shaffer of the Homicide Division will prosecute this case.

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/6232008_3.htm MEDIA ADVISORY CB978723-F720-4F21-8F81-307F83C250F0 Thu, 26 Jun 2008 07:49:09 -0400
CHRISTOPHER SHAW INDICTED FOR TRESPASSING, ASSAULT AND MALICIOUS DESTRUCTION OF PROPERTY

Shaw charged with assault on three citizens.

Baltimore, MD – June 23, 2008 – State’s Attorney Patricia C. Jessamy announced today that the Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Christopher Shaw , 23 of the 1300 block of Glenwood Avenue on charges of trespassing and third-degree burglary..

Court documents allege on May 30, 2008 Shaw, Charles Dominic Williams and one other male trespassed and burglarized three victims at a home in the 3500 block of Reisterstown Road. Charging documents further allege the residence had a “No Trespassing” sign posted on the door.

An arraignment is scheduled for July 14, 2008 before Judge Michel Pierson, Room 329 Courthouse East. Assistant State’s Attorney Michelle Wilson will prosecute the case.

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/6232008_2.htm PRESS RELEASE 893AA3C2-F93A-4BF7-B3C9-80A477EDA513 Thu, 26 Jun 2008 07:46:28 -0400
BALTIMORE CITY JURY CONVICTS RANDY GOLDEN OF FIRST-DEGREE MURDER AND HANDGUN COUNTS

Sentencing Scheduled for June 24, 2008

Baltimore, MD – May 9, 2008 – A Baltimore City jury convicted Randy Golden, 19, of the 3600 block of St. Victor Street today of first-degree murder, use of a handgun in the commission of a crime of violence, wear/carry/transport a handgun. The jury deliberated approximately two hours before reaching its verdict.

Judge Timothy J. Doory scheduled sentencing for June 24, 2008 at which time he faces a maximum possible prison term of life plus 23-years.

On January 9, 2007 at 12:00PM in the 600 block of Washburn Avenue Golden shot his ex-girlfriend, Melissa Stefanski, once in the back of the head. The shooting took place in broad daylight in the middle of the street. Witnesses testified that two days before the shooting, Golden warned three different people, including the victim’s sisters, that he intended to kill Stefanski. The State asserted that the motive for the shooting was that Stefanski began selling drugs for the Crips, a rival gang of the Bloods, of which Golden is a member. Stefanski’s new boyfriend was also a Crip.

Assistant State’s Attorneys Lisa Phelps of the Homicide Division and Brandis Marsh of the Narcotics Division prosecuted this case.

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/592008.htm PRESS RELEASE 772E7041-7224-41BF-8514-357790253A6C Thu, 26 Jun 2008 07:43:56 -0400
DAMON SIMPSON FIRST-DEGREE MURDER TRIAL SCHEDULED TO BEGIN TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2008

Baltimore, MD – June 23, 2008 – The murder trial of Damon Simpson, 16, of the 3300 block of Brighton Street is scheduled to begin 9:00AM tomorrow before Judge Charles G. Bernstein, 434 Mitchell Courthouse, 110 North Calvert Street.

A Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Simpson June 1, 2007 for first-degree murder and other charges.

Court documents allege Simpson is the suspect responsible for a shooting incident on March 20, 2007 in which Charles Hargrove was shot multiple times in the 2600 block of Rayner Avenue. He died later as a result of his injuries.

Assistant State’s Attorney Diana Smith of the Homicide Division will prosecute this case.

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/6232008.htm 42CF7DD7-BE4F-48B4-B03B-9788F4AE49AB Tue, 24 Jun 2008 09:58:01 -0400
BALTIMORE CITY GRAND JURY INDICTS TROY GARDNER FOR MURDER AND OTHER COUNTS AND ROBERT JAMES ON CONSPIRACY

Baltimore, MD – June 20, 2008 – State’s Attorney Patricia C. Jessamy announced that the Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Troy Gardner, 33, of Gwynn Lake Drive for murder and other counts and Robert James, 26, of the 3900 block of Fordleigh Road on conspiracy of murder and other charges on Thursday, June 19, 2008.

Court documents allege that Gardner is responsible for a double shooting in the 2600 block of Oswego Avenue on November 8, 2007. Leonard Hunt was fatally shot several times along with another victim in the unit block. The second victim was treated and released from the hospital.

Robert James was previously indicted on murder and other charges December 14, 2007. His trial is set for June 23, 2008.

An arraignment is scheduled for July 7, 2008 before Judge Sylvester, Room 203, Mitchell Courthouse.

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/6202008.htm MEDIA ADVISORY A8865783-9D77-4124-9E7B-02586831470F Tue, 24 Jun 2008 09:54:10 -0400
JUDGE SENTENCES ERIK STODDARD TO 40-YEARS IN PRISON FOR CHILD ABUSE DEATH OF CALEN DIRUBBO

BALTIMORE JURY CONVICTED ERIK STODDARD A THIRD TIME ON MAY 1, 2008

Felony Family Violence Chief Prosecutes Stoddard in Third Trial Yielding 40-Year Consecutive Sentence for Involuntary Manslaughter and Child Abuse Resulting in Death

Appeals Twice Vacated Second-Degree Murder Convictions in 2003 & 2007

Baltimore, MD – June 16, 2008 – Late today the Honorable Kaye Allison sentenced Erik Stoddard to 40-years in prison following his convictions for involuntary manslaughter and child abuse resulting in the death of 3-year old Carlen Drubbed. This is the maximum allowable sentence under current Maryland law.

“I am very pleased with the court’s sentence and with the judge’s statement that she agreed that the evidence supported the defendant’s conviction beyond a reasonable doubt. My only regret is that I could not ask for a sentence of life in prison, because I believe he richly deserved it,” said Julie Drake, Chief of the Felony Family Violence Division. During the last legislative session, Ms. Drake testified in support of a bill which would have increased the penalty for child abuse resulting in death to life in prison. The bill failed in the House Judiciary Committee.

The jury deliberated for 3-hours on May 1, 2008 and convicted Erik Stoddard, 27, of the 2500 block of Moore Avenue, of involuntary manslaughter and child abuse resulting in death.

A Baltimore City jury convicted Stoddard March 13, 2003 of second-degree murder and child abuse resulting in death for the death of Calen Faith Dirubbo, 3, and Stoddard began serving a 60-year prison term. The Court of Appeals later vacated the conviction noting that a particular question during the original trial constituted inadmissible hearsay. The case was returned for a new trial.

On May 16, 2007 Stoddard was again convicted of second-degree murder and child-abuse resulting in death. However, the State submitted on a defense motion for a new trial and on July 5, 2007 a Baltimore Circuit Court judge vacated Stoddard’s second-degree murder conviction, citing a voir dire question not asked of prospective jurors before last year’s trial.

On June 15, 2002 Dirubbo was pronounced dead at her home, where she lived with her mother and Stoddard. Dirubbo died as a result of multiple beatings over a period of at least a month; the fatal blow occurred June 15, 2002 and severed her bowel. The State proved through detailed medical evidence that Stoddard was the only person who had custody of Dirubbo when the fatal blow occurred. The third trial occurred with the State missing a key State witness, Calen’s grandfather, who passed away earlier this year. His testimony from an earlier trial was read into the court record last week.

Julie Drake, Chief of the Felony Family Violence Division, and Assistant State’s Attorney Jeremy Eldridge prosecuted this case.

###]]> MEDIA ADVISORY DA72C159-A7BC-41A7-BC53-4658A6BFCFF3 Tue, 17 Jun 2008 08:06:14 -0400 MEDIA ADVISORY <br /> <br /> BALTIMORE CITY GRAND JURY INDICTS JOHN PAUL NEWCOMB FOR ARSON, MALICIOUS BURNING AND RECKLESS ENDANGERMENT <br /> <br /> Baltimore, MD – June 16, 2008 – State’s Attorney Patricia C. Jessamy announced that the Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted John Paul Newcomb, 49, of the 3800 block of Pinewood Avenue for three counts of arson, malicious burning and reckless endangerment. <br /> <br /> Court documents allege that between November 17, 2006 through December 26, 2007, Newcomb is responsible for setting fire to several houses in the Rosemont Community of Baltimore City. <br /> <br /> An arraignment is scheduled for July 11, 2008 before Judge Michel W. Pierson, Room 329, Courthouse East. <br /> <br /> ### http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/6162008_2.htm MEDIA ADVISORY 7323FFC7-BC9A-43AA-B599-9ED4E83B00C6 Tue, 17 Jun 2008 08:01:16 -0400
BALTIMORE JURY CONVICTS ERIK STODDARD A THIRD TIME FOR DEATH OF 3-YEAR OLD CALEN DIRUBBO

Felony Family Violence Chief Prosecutes Stoddard in Third Trial Yielding Convictions For Involuntary Manslaughter and Child Abuse Resulting in Death

Appeals Twice Vacated Second-Degree Murder Convictions in 2003 & 2007

Baltimore, MD – May 1, 2008 – Just after 5 PM this afternoon, following 3-hours of deliberations, a Baltimore jury convicted Erik Stoddard, 27, of the 2500 block of Moore Avenue, of involuntary manslaughter and child abuse resulting in death. Prosecutors proceeded with a third trial after submitting last year on a defense motion for a new trial following appeal questions on a voir dire question during jury selection.

The jury reached a verdict following 8-days of testimony. Stoddard faces a maximum possible prison term of 40-years in prison. The Honorable Kaye Allison will sentence Stoddard on June 16, 2008 following a pre-sentence investigation.

“I am very pleased with the jury’s verdict and recognize the efforts of Calen’s extended family who pressed forward with three long trials and who desperately wanted justice for this delightful toddler, fully engaged in life, who was snatched to death at such an early age,” said prosecutor Julie Drake, Chief of the Felony Family Violence Division.

A Baltimore City jury convicted Stoddard March 13, 2003 of second-degree murder and child abuse resulting in death for the death of Calen Faith Dirubbo, 3, and Stoddard began serving a 60-year prison term. The Court of Appeals later vacated the conviction noting that a particular question during the original trial constituted inadmissible hearsay. The case was returned for a new trial.

On May 16, 2007 Stoddard was again convicted of second-degree murder and child-abuse resulting in death. However, the State submitted on a defense motion for a new trial and on July 5, 2007 a Baltimore Circuit Court judge vacated Stoddard’s second-degree murder conviction, citing a voir dire question not asked of prospective jurors before last year’s trial.

On June 15, 2002 Dirubbo was pronounced dead at her home, where she lived with her mother and Stoddard. Dirubbo died as a result of multiple beatings over a period of at least a month; the fatal blow occurred June 15, 2002 and severed her bowel. The State proved through detailed medical evidence that Stoddard was the only person who had custody of Dirubbo when the fatal blow occurred. The third trial occurred with the State missing a key State witness, Calen’s grandfather, who passed away earlier this year. His testimony from an earlier trial was read into the court record last week.

Julie Drake, Chief of the Felony Family Violence Division, and Assistant State’s Attorney Jeremy Eldridge prosecuted this case.

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/6162008.htm MEDIA ADVISORY 39EF0863-B260-448D-98C4-3C92E5B21624 Mon, 16 Jun 2008 14:09:43 -0400 PRESS RELEASE <br /> <br /> JAMAL JOHNSON INDICTED ON CHARGES OF WITNESS INTIMIDATION <br /> <br /> Baltimore, MD – June 10, 2008 – State’s Attorney Patricia C. Jessamy announced today that the Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Jamal Johnson, 20, of 2700 block of East Madison Street on charges of obstructing and hindering justice. <br /> <br /> Court documents allege that May 11, 2008, Johnson threatened with the intent to retaliate a witness in an attempt murder case.<br /> <br /> An arraignment is scheduled for June 26, 2008 before Judge Sylvester B. Cox, Room 203, Mitchell Courthouse. <br /> <br /> ### http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/6102008_6.htm PRESS RELEASE D345F384-5983-4965-A392-0799F2C9C139 Wed, 11 Jun 2008 07:55:16 -0400
KENNIS LAMBERT PLEADS GUILTY TO SECOND-DEGREE MURDER

Baltimore, MD – June 10, 2008 –Kennis Lambert, 18, of the 6200 block of Alumure Way plead guilty to second-degree murder of Azerwoine Walker.

Lambert plead guilty to the following facts of the case: On April 29, 2007 at or around the 6200 Block of Elliott Street in Baltimore MD; the victim, Azerwoine Walker, was walking with his cousin when they were approached from behind by Kennis Lambert, and another individual. An argument ensued and at some point during the verbal argument a gun was drawn by Lambert and the victim was shot eight times. The victim’s cousin identified Lambert as the shooter date April 29, 2007 in a photo array, but subsequently changed his story and said he was not sure who the shooter was. Another witness did not see the shooting but was able to identify Lambert as having a gun and walking in the direction of the 6200 block of Elliott Street moments prior to the incident.

Lambert was sentenced before Judge Heard to 20 years suspend all but 10 years with 3 years of probation.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant State’s Attorney Richard Gibson.

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/6102008_5.htm B7B63D3E-4EA9-4681-99B8-96835700AF44 Wed, 11 Jun 2008 07:52:41 -0400
BALTIMORE CITY JURY CONVICTS LANCE GORHAM ON POSSESSION WITH INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE HEROIN AND CONSPIRACY TO DISTRIBUTE HEROIN

Baltimore, MD – June 10, 2008 – Judge John Prevas today sentenced Lance Gorham, 25, of the 100 block of North Kenwood Avenue to 20 years at the Department of Corrections following a guilty conviction for possession with intent to distribute heroin and conspiracy to distribute heroin.

The jury convicted Gorham based on the following facts of the case:

On May 26, 2006 at 2:15p.m., a Detective in a covert location in the 900 block of North Caroline Street observed two juveniles and an adult woman accepting money in exchange for suspected CDS. Lance Gorham was observed accepting money from the three sellers. Gorham left the area and returned approximately 30 minutes later and handed the three suspected CDS. Gorham then walked to a nearby vacant yard and placed suspected CDS under a porch, then left the area in a car. Officers then stopped the car and arrested Gorham and recovered Controlled Dangerous Substance from the three sellers and the CDS from under the porch. The total amount of controlled dangerous substance recovered were 75 pieces of heroin and 21 pieces of cocaine.

Since Gorham was also on probation at the time of the arrest, a violation of parole hearing is scheduled for July 24, 2008. Assistant State's Attorney Jerry E. Jones of the Narcotics Division prosecuted this case.

####]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/6102008_4.htm PRESS RELEASE BA9E28D1-E4FC-4C82-950A-8DC5D10FF2BD Wed, 11 Jun 2008 07:50:15 -0400
STEVEN NORWOOD PLEADS GUILTY TO HIT AND RUN AND CDS POSSESSION

Norwood Attempted to Elude Police

Baltimore, MD – June 10, 2008 – Judge John Themelis sentenced Steven Norwood, 32, of the 1600 block of Moreland Avenue, to 11 years in prison following a plea agreement. Judge Themelis sentenced Norwood to 10 years for possession with intent to distribute and 1 year for hit & run bodily injury and ordered that the sentences run concurrent.

Norwood plead to the following facts of the case. On October 2, 2007 at approximately 10:45 p.m., Detectives observed a black 2-door Acura matching the description of a vehicle used in a homicide in the 1700 block of Pulaski Street. Later they observed the same vehicle stopped in the middle of the street at the intersection of Pulaski and Presbury Streets. Detectives executed a traffic stop and the defendant presented his driver’s license to Detectives while attempting to stuff an object into the center console of the vehicle. Detectives asked the defendant to exit his vehicle. The defendant placed the vehicle into reverse striking the detective’s vehicle and one of the detectives present at the scene. The detective suffered no injuries.

The defendant then fled in his vehicle and the detectives followed reaching speeds of 70 mph in a residential area with a 25 m.p.h. speed limit. The defendant then ran a stop sign at Presbury and Bentalou Streets and collided with a vehicle driven by Melvin Horton and occupied by the front passenger Richard Jones. Both victims were transported to Shock Trauma. Horton suffered a fractured pelvis, lacerated liver, punctured lung, fractured ribs, and traumatic head injury. Jones suffered a laceration to the left hip and bruises. Horton stopped breathing briefly but was immediately revived by Jones the passenger -- Horton’s friend of more than 10 years. Both vehicles were totaled.

The defendant fled on foot immediately after the accident and was caught and arrested moments later. Detectives recovered 123.7 grams of cocaine from the defendant. Upon returning to the defendant’s vehicle, detectives recovered 124.8 grams of cocaine from the front floor of the defendant’s vehicle and $13,795 cash from the trunk. A search of the defendant’s house located 2 blocks from where the defendant was arrested revealed packaging material including a capper, quinine and mannitol. Also recovered from the defendant’s house was $12,255 cash. The street value of the cocaine was approximately $12,000.

Assistant State's Attorney Jerry E. Jones, of the Narcotics Division, prosecuted this case.]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/6102008_3.htm PRESS RELEASE C99C93C5-9671-4F2A-AF1F-36865C2BC411 Wed, 11 Jun 2008 07:48:05 -0400
ERICA AMMENHAUSER PLEADS GUILTY TO CONSPIRCAY TO COMMIT ASSAULT; KINLAW “BABY BOY” JONES PLEADS GUILTY TO SECOND-DEGREE ASSAULT

Murder Trial of Third Co-Defendant Maurice Crosby Postponed

Baltimore, MD – June 10, 2008 – At a hearing today, and Erica Ammenhauser, 21, of the 200 block of Durham Street pled guilty to conspiracy to commit first-degree assault. Under terms of the plea agreement, announced in open court, she is required to testify truthfully in the murder trial of Maurice Crosby. Kinlaw “Baby Boy” Jones, 19, of the 1900 block of East Baltimore Street, also pled guilty today to second-degree assault and wear/carry/transport a dangerous weapon-knife. Judge Gale E. Rasin sentenced Jones to five-years in prison suspending all but time served. Jones has been in custody since October 2007.

On June 9, 2007 at approximately 5PM outside Ann’s Grocery Store located at 140 South Ann Street Jones got into an argument with a victim. This argument became physical and Jones displayed a knife. This altercation led to a series of events that led to Ammanhauser going to the unit block of South Chapel Street at 1AM June 10, 2007 with the intent to continue the above altercation with the same victim.

The Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Maurice Crosby, 19, of the 5200 block of Ready Avenue July 16, 2007 for first-degree murder and deadly weapons counts. His trial is currently scheduled for September 17, 2008.

Court documents allege that Crosby is responsible for a fatal stabbing on June 10, 2007 in the unit block of South Chapel Street. Michael Simms, 19, was involved in an altercation with Crosby when he was stabbed. He died later at Johns Hopkins Hospital.

Assistant State’s Attorney Lisa Phelps will prosecute this case.

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/6102008_2.htm PRESS RELEASE 3E7634DF-9BBE-461E-911C-006CA2CE0270 Wed, 11 Jun 2008 07:45:25 -0400
TIFFANY N. BROWN SENTENCED TO 30-YEARS IN PRISON SUSPEND ALL BUT 15-YEARS FOLLOWING AUGUST 2007 GUILTY PLEA TO CONSPIRACY TO COMMIT MURDER

Baltimore, MD – June 10, 2008 – Today Judge Lynn K. Stewart sentenced Tiffany Natasha Brown, 22, of the 1400 block of N. Dukeland St. to 30-years in prison suspend all but 15-years for conspiracy to commit first-degree murder and a concurrent 15-years for robbery. Brown pled guilty August 21, 2007 for her role in the murder of Donald Russell.

Brown helped tie up and bind the victim before he was killed. She then drew the bath water that the victim was drowned in. Once he was killed by co-defendant Octavius Savage, Brown helped drag the body downstairs and accompanied Savage to a local Wal-Mart where they bought the supplies to dispose/hide the body.

A Baltimore City Jury convicted Octavius Savage April 10, 2008 of second-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder, robbery, first and second-degree assault and conspiracy to commit robbery. Judge John N. Prevas sentenced Savage May 19, 2008 to life plus 30-years for conspiracy to commit murder and the second-degree murder of Donald Raymond Russell.

Savage murdered Donald Raymond Russell, 64, between April 30 and May 3, 2006 at Mr. Russell's residence in the 1400 block of N. Dukeland Street. Evidence introduced at trial showed that Savage shared a house with Russell. Russell’s partial remains were found in Waldorf, Maryland.

Assistant State’s Attorney Josh Felsen of the Homicide Division prosecuted this case.

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/6102008.htm PRESS RELEASE B74DD12B-8F3B-463E-9794-F397F72F4C44 Wed, 11 Jun 2008 07:41:34 -0400
MAURICE CROSBY AND ERICA AMMENHAUSER MURDER TRIAL SCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY, JUNE 10, 2008

Baltimore, MD – June 9, 2008 – The murder trial of Maurice Crosby, 19, of the 5200 block of Ready Avenue and Erica Ammenhauser, 21, of the 200 block of Durham Street is scheduled 9:30AM tomorrow before Judge Gale E. Rasin, 509 Courthouse East, 111 N. Calvert Street.

The Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Crosby and Ammenhauser July 16, 2007 for first-degree murder and deadly weapons counts.

Court documents allege that Crosby and Ammenhauser are the persons responsible for a stabbing incident on June 10, 2007 in the unit block of S. Chapel Street. Michael Simms, 19, was involved in an altercation with the two individuals when he was stabbed. He died later at Johns Hopkins Hospital.

Assistant State’s Attorney Lisa Phelps will prosecute this case.

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/692008_3.htm MEDIA ADVISORY B4EE06C1-7456-4166-934E-60B265AD5497 Tue, 10 Jun 2008 08:09:29 -0400
BALTIMORE CITY GRAND JURY INDICTS QUEEN ANTOINETTE AND MARCUS COBBS FOR OBSTRUCTING AND HINDERING,

AND SECOND DEGREE ASSAULT AND TREVIA WILLIAMS FOR OBSTRUCTING AND HINDERING

Baltimore, MD – June 9, 2008 – State’s Attorney Patricia C. Jessamy announced today that the Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Queen Antoinette, 40, of Brooklyn, NY and Marcus Cobbs, 21, of Brooklyn, NY for obstructing and hindering and second degree assault. A third person, Trevia Williams, 21, of Brooklyn, NY was indicted for obstructing and hindering.

Court documents allege that October, 6, 2006, Antoinette, Cobbs and Williams interfered with police officers removing an under age child from the residence in the 300 block of North Robinson Street during a custody dispute.

An arraignment is scheduled for July 22, 2008 before Judge Sylvester B. Cox, Room 203, Mitchell Courthouse.

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/692008_2.htm MEDIA ADVISORY B682B93A-0994-44E9-B6D5-A6C8987E3FB8 Tue, 10 Jun 2008 08:03:39 -0400
DWAYNE JACKSON AKA DAVID JACKSON SENTENCED TO 3 YEARS FOR VIOLATING PROBATION

COLLABORATIVE EFFORT IN NORTHWEST DISTRICT IDENTIFIES PROBATION VIOLATORS FOR PROSECUTION

Baltimore, MD – June 9, 2008 – At a hearing today, Judge John J. Miller found Dwayne Jackson, 42, of 40 N. Rosedale Street, guilty of violating his probation following a 2007 robbery conviction and sentenced him to 3-years in prison. On February 16, 2007 Dwayne Jackson, pled guilty to attempted robbery, assault and theft under $500 and was sentenced to an 8-year prison term, with all but 7-years suspended, with 3-years supervised probation.

Today’s conviction was the result of a team effort by local, state and federal law enforcement partners working together in Baltimore’s high-crime neighborhoods to reduce violence; including the Western and Northwest police districts. Today’s partners include: the Baltimore Police Department, the Maryland Division or Parole & Probation, the Mayor’s Office and the Baltimore State’s Attorney’s Office. Assistant State’s Attorney Nancy Olin of the State’s Attorney’s Collateral Division prosecuted the case.

Jackson’s violation of probation was triggered after he failed to obey all of his conditions of supervision and he was re-arrested on a drug charge.

Today’s hearing highlights the continued emphasis on the identification and prosecution of repeat offenders in Baltimore on supervised parole or probation who commit a new offense or technical violation

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/692008.htm PRESS RELEASE 1AD4ADE5-CAB0-48C4-96E5-6B6BBA193680 Tue, 10 Jun 2008 07:53:22 -0400
Join Oliver Community Association–

Greater Greenmount Community Association –

East North Avenue CDC –

Eastern District Community Council and others

MONDAY, JUNE 9, 2008 – 7:00 PM

MEET ON THE CORNER OF

1200 E. NORTH AVENUE AND HOPE STREET

Let’s walk and talk to our young people and tell them what is going on in our communities and what is available to them. The walk will start at the corner of 1200 E. North Avenue and Hope Street - 7:00 pm. Bring a friend or a neighbor.

Join us to take back the neighborhood!]]> 6EB59BBF-391F-4B7F-AFEC-D35CAABFAF0C Mon, 9 Jun 2008 15:15:41 -0400
BALTIMORE CITY JURY CONVICTS AARON SPEAKS OF ATTEMPTED FIRST-DEGREE MURDER, HANDGUN COUNTS

Sentencing Scheduled for September 16, 2008

Baltimore, MD – June 6, 2008 – A Baltimore City jury today convicted Aaron Speaks, 23, of the 2100 block of N. Guilford Ave of attempted first-degree murder and use of a handgun in the commission of a crime of violence after a two-day trial.

Judge Thomas J.S. Waxter scheduled sentencing for September 16, 2008. Speaks faces a maximum possible prison term of life plus 20-years.

On August 6, 2007 at approximately 4:18PM the victim, who suffered from cerebral palsy, was walking in the 300 block of East 21st St. when Speaks crept up behind him and shot him one time at close range in the back of the neck. A CitiWatch pole camera captured Speaks feeling the scene. Witnesses testified that only one person approached the victim, only one shot was heard and only one person fled the scene. Another witness testified that shortly after the shooting the defendant admitted to shooting the victim. This shooting left the victim paralyzed from the neck down; he remains on a ventilator and is unable to speak without medical intervention.

Assistant State’s Attorney Tonya LaPolla of the Firearms Investigation Violence Enforcement (F.I.V.E.) Division prosecuted this case.

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/662008_3.htm PRESS RELEASE 12E9F585-740E-4D4E-A1A2-128AAD967D9F Mon, 9 Jun 2008 07:46:25 -0400 MEDIA ADVISORY <br /> <br /> BALTIMORE CITY GRAND JURY INDICTS CHIFONNE FRAZIER FOR ATTEMPTED FIRST-DEGREE MURDER <br /> <br /> Baltimore, MD – June 6, 2008 – State’s Attorney Patricia C. Jessamy announced that the Baltimore City Grand Jury today indicted Chifonne Frazier,17, of the 2900 block of Ulman Avenue for attempted first-degree murder, first-degree assault and related weapons charges. <br /> <br /> Court documents allege that on May 7, 2008, Chifonne Frazier assaulted and stabbed a young woman with a knife in the 100 block of North Howard Street. <br /> <br /> An arraignment is scheduled for July 11, 2008 before Judge Sylvester Cox, 203 Mitchell Courthouse. Assistant State's Attorney Michael Leedy will prosecute this case. <br /> <br /> ### http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/662008_2.htm MEDIA ADVISORY D4206670-6493-454B-8381-DD8DEFC97C09 Mon, 9 Jun 2008 07:43:50 -0400 PRESS RELEASE <br /> <br /> BALTIMORE CITY GRAND JURY INDICTS KEON CHRISTIAN DORSEY FOR FIRST-DEGREE MURDER, CONSPIRACY TO ROBBERY AND ROBBERY. <br /> <br /> Baltimore, MD – June 6, 2008 – State’s Attorney Patricia C. Jessamy announced that the Baltimore City Grand Jury today indicted Keon Christian Dorsey, 20, of the 5300 block of Cuthbert Avenue for first-degree murder, conspiracy to robbery and robbery. <br /> <br /> Court documents allege on April 25, 2008 Keon Dorsey assaulted Ellsworth Monroe-Bey by striking him in the head as he walked in the 3800 block of W. Belvedere Avenue. Documents further allege that the assault rendered Monroe-Bey unconscious causing him to fall into the street. It is further alleged that Dorsey continued to assault and rob Monroe-Bey. Mr. Monroe-Bey was transported to Sinai Hospital where he succumbed to his massive head injuries on May 2, 2008. <br /> <br /> An arraignment has been scheduled for June 27, 2008 before Judge Sylvester Cox. <br /> <br /> ### http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/662008.htm PRESS RELEASE CF932524-481B-4078-87C5-049E61B372A9 Fri, 6 Jun 2008 13:29:58 -0400
DEDRICK STRONG SENTENCED TO 33-YEARS IN PRISON FOR SECOND-DEGREE ASSAULT ON CORRECTIONAL OFFICER

Strong Convicted of Assaulting Correctional Officer with Styrofoam Cup Filled with Excrement

Baltimore, MD – June 5, 2008 – Judge Wanda K. Heard sentenced Dedrick Strong, 22, an inmate at the Baltimore City Detention Center, to 33-years in prison yesterday.

A Baltimore jury convicted Strong April 1, 2008 of second degree assault and related counts.

On October 2, 2007 Strong, an inmate at the Baltimore City Detention Center, threw a white Styrofoam cup of urine and feces at a Corrections Officer, causing the body fluids to strike the officer in the face, arm, neck, back, right leg, and upper torso. The officer observed a trail of the body fluids originating from Dedrick Strong’s cell.

The officer reported to Mercy Hospital for treatment and tests regarding possible diseases he could have came into contact with during the assault. He suffered no permanent injuries and remains employed at the Division of Corrections.

Strong remains held in the detention center charged with attempted murder. His trial date is August 12, 2008.

Assistant State’s Attorney Mark Monson of the Misdemeanor Division prosecuted this case.

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/652008_2.htm PRESS RELEASE 395C58F8-64BD-44D7-9307-668B3B83B175 Fri, 6 Jun 2008 07:40:24 -0400 PRESS RELEASE <br /> <br /> BALTIMORE CITY GRAND JURY INDICTS MARLOW HUMBERT FOR FIRST AND SECOND-DEGREE RAPE, THIRD DEGREE SEX OFFENSE AND ROBBERY. <br /> <br /> Baltimore, MD – June 5, 2008 – State’s Attorney Patricia C. Jessamy announced that on May 30, 2008 the Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Marlow Humber, 45, of 2800 block of Brighton Street for first and second-degree rape, and third-degree sex offense. <br /> <br /> Court documents allege on April 29, 2008 Marlow Humbert accosted a woman as she entered her home in the Charles Village area of Baltimore City. Once inside the home, Humbert robbed, assaulted and raped the woman. <br /> <br /> An arraignment has been scheduled for June 23, 2008 Assistant State’s Attorney Joakim Tan will prosecute this case. <br /> <br /> ### http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/652008.htm PRESS RELEASE D902637E-DD46-4C5F-ACE0-5F75DF99C03D Thu, 5 Jun 2008 15:05:41 -0400
KENNETH MEGGINSON SENTENCED TO 53-YEARS IN PRISON SUSPEND ALL BUT 35-YEARS FOR MURDER

City Jury Convicted Megginson of Second-Degree Murder, Other Counts, in March

Baltimore, MD – June 4, 2008 – At a hearing today Judge John A. Howard sentenced Kenneth Megginson, 25, of the 4500 block of Lemans Court to 30-years in prison for second-degree murder, 20-years in prison for use of a handgun in the commission of a crime of violence, three-years in prison for wear/carry/transport of a handgun for a total of 53 years. Judge Howard then suspended all but 35-years and ordered that Megginson be on supervised probation for four-years following his release.

A Baltimore City jury convicted Megginson on March 13, 2008.

On October 31, 2006, Kenneth Megginson got into an argument over drugs that he sold to Gregory Welsh, 31, of the 6000 block of Marluth Ave. The argument became violent. Megginson said he would be back for Welsh and his family. About an hour later Megginson returned to the home of Welsh (who was holding a machete) and walked up to his door and shot him several times, injuring him fatally.

Assistant State’s Attorney Kevin Wiggins of the Homicide Division prosecuted this case.

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/642008.htm PRESS RELEASE B20F9A4E-5DE4-4547-9C09-B2E2ADDA046F Thu, 5 Jun 2008 07:48:03 -0400 MEDIA ADVISORY <br /> <br /> BALTIMORE CITY GRAND JURY INDICTS MONTREAL PROCTOR FOR ATTEMPTED MURDER AND OTHER COUNTS <br /> <br /> Baltimore, MD – June 3, 2008 – State’s Attorney Patricia C. Jessamy announced that the Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Montreal Proctor, 18, of the 2000 N. Bentlou for attempted murder and other counts on Monday, June 2, 2008. <br /> <br /> Court documents allege that Proctor is responsible for a shooting incident in the unit block of S. Ellwood Avenue on May 7, 2008. The victim traveled with the defendant’s mother to pick up her children including the defendant in East Baltimore. The defendant instructed his mother to stop in an unknown alley. The victim exited the vehicle, Proctor ordered her to get back in the vehicle, she refused, and an altercation began. Court documents allege during the altercation, Proctor shot the victim in the head. The victim was treated at Johns Hopkins Hospital and released.<br /> <br /> An arraignment is scheduled for June 30, 2008 before Judge Michel W. Pierson, Room 329, Courthouse East. <br /> <br /> ### http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/632008_2.htm MEDIA ADVISORY 19D09487-350D-4AAF-91B3-6CE21F91ABF8 Tue, 3 Jun 2008 16:40:07 -0400
GEORGE SCRUGGS FIRST-DEGREE MURDER AND HANDGUN TRIAL SCHEDULED TO BEGIN WEDNESDAY, JUNE 4, 2008

Baltimore, MD – June 3, 2008 – The murder trial of George Scruggs, 34, of the 3100 block of Artaban Place is scheduled to begin 11:00AM tomorrow before Judge Gale E. Rasin, 509 Courthouse East, 111 N. Calvert Street.

The Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Scruggs November 19, 2007 for first-degree murder and handgun charges.

Court documents allege on August 29, 2007 witnesses identified Scruggs as the person responsible for a shooting incident in the 3100 block of Artaban Place. Darnell Thomas, 24, was found lying in the block suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Scruggs and Thomas were allegedly engaged in an argument when Scruggs produced a handgun and shot Thomas.

Scruggs remains held without bail at the Baltimore City Detention Center. Assistant State’s Attorney Lisa Phelps will prosecute this case.

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/632008.htm MEDIA ADVISORY BEABBE20-FAB2-468C-AF69-5F29FF48B0F3 Tue, 3 Jun 2008 15:22:32 -0400 Baltimore, MD – June 3, 2008 – The attempted murder trial of Rozza Alston, 40, of the 1600 block of Saint Paul Street, originally scheduled to begin today, has been postponed at the request of the defense until July 23, 2008. <br /> <br /> The Baltimore City State’s Attorney’s Office criminally charged Alston March 16, 2007 with attempted first degree murder, attempted second degree murder, assault, armed robbery and robbery. <br /> <br /> Court documents allege that on January 26, 2007 Alston accosted a female victim in the parking lot of a Kentucky Fried Chicken located at 1821 Saint Paul Street demanding her purse. When the victim refused, he allegedly stabbed her numerous times in her hand, arm and chest. Police arrested Alston on February 3, 2007. <br /> <br /> Alston remains held without bail at the Baltimore City Detention Center. Assistant State’s Attorney Staci Pipkin will prosecute this case. F02915C1-361E-4599-A8DC-6D861C9F3F36 Tue, 3 Jun 2008 15:21:21 -0400 MEDIA ADVISORY <br /> <br /> BALTIMORE CITY GRAND JURY INDICTS CHRISTOPHER JOHNSON FOR KIDNAPPING <br /> <br /> Baltimore, MD – June 2, 2008 – State’s Attorney Patricia C. Jessamy announced that the Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Christopher Johnson, 22, of the 5600 block of McClean Boulevard for kidnapping on Friday, May 30, 2008. <br /> <br /> Court documents allege that on May 2, 2008, Johnson forced two victims into a vehicle at a bus stop located at Northern Parkway and McClean Boulevard. They were then driven to an apartment in the 5600 block of McClean Boulevard and held against their will. It is alleged that Johnson thought a Playstation 3 game had been stolen from the same apartment by the two victims. <br /> <br /> An arraignment is scheduled for June 23, 2008 before Judge Sylvester B. Cox, Room 203 Mitchell Courthouse. <br /> <br /> ### http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/622008.htm MEDIA ADVISORY 4B0D222D-764D-44EB-BA66-F102B86D9277 Tue, 3 Jun 2008 07:50:35 -0400 Baltimore, MD – June 2, 2008 – The attempted murder trial of Rozza Alston, 40, of the 1600 block of Saint Paul Street, is scheduled to begin 9:30AM tomorrow before Judge Robert B. Kershaw, 406 Mitchell Courthouse 110 N. Calvert St. <br /> <br /> The Baltimore City State’s Attorney’s Office criminally charged Alston March 16, 2007 with attempted first degree murder, attempted second degree murder, assault, armed robbery and robbery. <br /> <br /> Court documents allege that on January 26, 2007 Alston accosted a female victim in the parking lot of a Kentucky Fried Chicken located at 1821 Saint Paul Street demanding her purse. When the victim refused, he allegedly stabbed her numerous times in her hand, arm and chest. Police arrested Alston on February 3, 2007. <br /> <br /> Alston remains held without bail at the Baltimore City Detention Center. Assistant State’s Attorney Staci Pipkin will prosecute this case. 8C80780A-D653-49CF-9F2B-52021AB8EE91 Mon, 2 Jun 2008 16:59:33 -0400 What: Courthouse Canine project service dog demonstration <br /> <br /> Where: 509 Mitchell Courthouse, 110 N. Calvert Street. <br /> <br /> When: 10:30AM-12:30PM TODAY <br /> <br /> Background: “Jeeter,” a golden retriever service dog from the prosecutor’s office in Seattle, WA, will be in the Baltimore City Circuit Court today with her handler. State’s Attorneys offices are now using highly trained service dogs to help victims of crime deal with the impact of crime and enhance their experience with the criminal justice system. The dogs provide comfort and calmness to victims during difficult times. Circuit Court Administrative Judge Marcella A. Holland and State’s Attorney Patricia C. Jessamy are both in support of introducing this program in the Circuit Court for Baltimore City. A96C43BC-D3EB-40E3-BD29-7F4E52664EB2 Mon, 2 Jun 2008 10:47:46 -0400 Late today a Baltimore jury found Brandon Grimes, 23, of the 800 block of Cator Avenue, Baltimore not guilty of handgun crimes, including prohibited possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, following less than 2 hours of deliberation. <br /> <br /> The counts against Grimes originated early afternoon on April 13, 2006 after a car stop near his home. The allegations included that Grimes tossed a hangun into an adjacent yard after exiting his vehicle and entering his home on Cator Avenue, following a car stop by officers on routine patrol.<br /> <br /> Grimes was found not guilty on all counts following a jury trial before Judge Wanda Heard. 83A345A7-A055-48FF-8A40-7D25297003A0 Fri, 30 May 2008 21:19:09 -0400 MEDIA ADVISORY <br /> <br /> ALEX SIMMONS INDICTED FOR FIRST-DEGREE MURDER <br /> <br /> Baltimore, MD – May 30, 2008 – State’s Attorney Patricia C. Jessamy announced today that the Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Alex Simmons, 21, of the 2000 block of Gaylawn Drive on first-degree murder in connection with the homicide of Stanley Johnson, and first-degree assault. <br /> <br /> Court documents allege that Alex Simmons approached Stanley Leon Johnson as he sat on the front steps in the 3400 block of 6th Street and shot him three times. Mr. Johnson succumbed to his injuries. <br /> <br /> An arraignment is scheduled for June 24, 2008 before Judge W. Michel Pierson, Room 329, Courthouse East. Assistant State’s Attorney Don Giblin will prosecute this case. <br /> <br /> ### http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/5302008_2.htm MEDIA ADVISORY EE171F69-9C65-4D63-A963-8BC286811E92 Fri, 30 May 2008 16:50:50 -0400 Baltimore, MD – May 30, 2008 – The first-degree murder trial of Rodney Fray, 39, of the 1800 block of E. Pratt St. is scheduled to begin 2:00PM Monday, June 3, 2008 before Judge Gale E. Rasin, 509 Courthouse East, 111 N. Calvert St. <br /> <br /> Court documents allege that Rodney Fray was responsible for an incident on July 7, 2007 when Ashley Bellosi, 23, was found suffering from head and neck injuries in her apartment in the 800 block of St Paul St. Fray allegedly fought with Bellosi, knocked her unconscious and then left the scene. Bellosi died later at University of Maryland Shock Trauma Hospital. Fray was reportedly Bellosi’s boyfriend. <br /> <br /> The first-degree murder trial of Willie Ferguson, 40, of the 3700 block of Woodbine Avenue is scheduled to begin 11:00AM Monday, June 3, 2008 before Judge Gale E. Rasin, 509 Courthouse East, 111 N. Calvert St. <br /> <br /> Court documents allege on September 25, 2007, Willie Ferguson was identified as the person responsible for a stabbing incident in the 5200 block of Fairlawn Avenue. Richard Ray, 37, was found lying on the pavement in the unit block suffering from multiple stab wounds. Ferguson and Ray were allegedly attempting to sell stolen merchandise to area business owners. When they were unable to complete a sale, they became involved in an argument, which led to a physical altercation. <br /> <br /> The first-degree murder trial of Perry Sims, 19, of the 400 block of East Eager St. is scheduled to begin 11:00AM Monday, June 3, 2008 before Judge Robert B. Kershaw, 406 Mitchell Courthouse, 110 N. Calvert St. <br /> <br /> Court documents allege on June 30, 2007 Sims is responsible for a fatal shooting that occurred in the 1100 block of Granby St. The victim, Paul Cornish, 28, was taken by friends to the Johns Hopkins Hospital emergency room where he later died. Witnesses later identified Sims as the shooter. A58934F2-5988-4460-8856-F7478EA02A91 Fri, 30 May 2008 16:54:09 -0400
STATE FILES NOTICE TO SEEK LIFE IN PRISON WITHOUT THE POSSIBILITY OF PAROLE IN MARK CASTILLO CASE

Baltimore, MD – May 30, 2008 – Today the State filed formal written notice of its intent to seek an enhanced penalty of life in prison without the possibility of parole in the case of Mark Castillo, 42, of Rockville, MD.

Under Maryland law, the State must file notice of its intention to seek enhanced penalties 30 days or more before the first trial date; his trial date is Aug. 22, 2008. A decision as to whether or not to file for the death penalty has not been made at this time. That decision will be made by State’s Attorney Patricia C. Jessamy. She is reviewing all the pertinent court papers in this case and is also awaiting the court medical evaluation. There is no timeline other than meeting the 30-day requirement as mandated by law.

The Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Castillo April 28, 2008 on three counts of first-degree murder and three counts of child abuse resulting in death. Castillo was arraigned on May 19, 2008 before the Honorable Timothy J. Doory. Castillo entered a not guilty plea and his attorney filed an NCR motion (Not Criminally Responsible) with the court requesting a court medical evaluation.

Court documents allege on March 30, 2008, Mark Castillo drowned his three children Anthony Castillo, 6, Austin Castillo, 4, and Athena Castillo, 2, in the bathtub of the Marriott Hotel in downtown Baltimore City.

Castillo remains held without bail at the Baltimore City Detention Center. Assistant State’s Attorney and Chief of the Felony Family Violence Division Julie Drake will prosecute this case.

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/5302008.htm MEDIA ADVISORY 911F5077-9EA7-484B-A277-70743E93B4A6 Fri, 30 May 2008 13:43:16 -0400 Baltimore, MD – May 29, 2008 – A re-arraignment in the case of Mark Castillo, 42, of Rockville, Maryland is scheduled for 9:30AM Friday, May 30, 2008 before the Honorable Gale E. Rasin, Room 509, Courthouse East, 111 North Calvert Street, Baltimore. <br /> <br /> The Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Castillo April 28, 2008 on three counts of first-degree murder and three counts of child abuse resulting in death. Castillo was arraigned on May 19, 2008 before the Honorable Timothy J. Doory. Castillo entered a not guilty plea and his attorney filed an NCR motion (Not Criminally Responsible) with the court requesting a court medical evaluation. An August trial date was set by the court. <br /> <br /> Court documents allege on March 30, 2008, Mark Castillo drowned his three children Anthony Castillo, 6, Austin Castillo, 4, and Athena Castillo, 2, in the bathtub of the Marriott Hotel in downtown Baltimore City. <br /> <br /> Castillo remains held without bail at the Baltimore City Detention Center. Assistant State’s Attorney and Chief of the Felony Family Violence Division Julie Drake will prosecute this case. <br /> <br /> ### http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/5292008.htm MEDIA ADVISORY 1656CF86-2FE5-465B-87AC-882A866B5D9D Fri, 30 May 2008 07:38:31 -0400 Baltimore, MD – May 29, 2008 – The murder and witness intimidation trials of Ray “Lucky” Williams, 45, of Randallstown, MD are scheduled to begin 9:30AM tomorrow before Judge Robert B. Kershaw, 406 Mitchell Courthouse, 110 N. Calvert St. <br /> <br /> The Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Williams July 19, 2006 for first degree murder and deadly weapon counts. It indicted Williams October 16, 2007 for multiple counts of witness intimidation. <br /> <br /> Court documents allege on April 11, 2006 Williams stabbed to death Charles Sparrow, 54, in a residence in the 1200 block of Glyndon Avenue following a verbal altercation between the two. <br /> <br /> Assistant State’s Attorney Rita Wisthoff-Ito of the Homicide Division will prosecute this case. 76240C87-A4B6-4D29-920C-E7DF5232529C Thu, 29 May 2008 16:37:44 -0400 The murder trial of Brandon Grimes, originally scheduled for today, has been postponed until August 13, 2008. <br /> <br /> One of his two pending gun charges is going to trial today, jury selection is expected to begin at approximately 2:00PM before Judge Wanda K. Heard, 600 Mitchell Courthouse. UPDATE D4A16414-4D64-41ED-8F04-F15F917D4D66 Thu, 29 May 2008 16:24:19 -0400
BRANDON GRIMES FIRST-DEGREE MURDER AND ATTEMPTED ROBBERY DEADLY WEAPON TRIAL SCHEDULED FOR THURSDAY, MAY 29, 2008

Baltimore, MD – May 28, 2008 – The trial of Brandon Grimes, 23, of the 800 block of Cator Ave. is scheduled for 9:30AM tomorrow before Judge Gale E. Rasin, 509 Courthouse East, 111 N. Calvert St.

The Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Grimes February 12, 2007 for first-degree murder and attempted robbery deadly weapon.

Court documents allege on January 9, 2007 Brandon Grimes fatally shot Baltimore Police Detective Troy Lamont Chesley, Sr. in the 4500 block of Fairfax Rd.

Assistant State’s Attorney Kevin Wiggins of the Homicide Division will prosecute this case.

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/5282008_3.htm MEDIA ADVISORY 14216FD8-82E0-46CC-8934-A39E0E72BEE3 Thu, 29 May 2008 07:47:34 -0400
DARIUS BACOTE PLEADS GUILTY TO ATTEMPTED SECOND-DEGREE MURDER AND HANDGUN USE

Teenager Sentenced to Thirty Years Suspend All But Twelve Years For Shooting

Baltimore, MD - May 28, 2008 – At a hearing today, Darius Bacote, 17, of the 500 block of Orchard Street, pled guilty to Attempted Second-Degree Murder, Handgun Use in commission of a Crime of Violence and Wear Carry Transport. Judge Gale E. Rasin sentenced Bacote to 30 years, suspend all but 12 years, the first five without parole and five years of supervised probation upon his release. In February 2008 a motion to transfer the case to Juvenile Court was denied by Judge Rasin.

Bacote plead to the following statement of facts. On November 9, 2007 in the 1300 block of West North Avenue at 9:24 p.m., Darius Bacote was observed firing a handgun by Officer Gregory Fisher who was operating an unmarked vehicle. The officer observed five muzzle flashes. The officer gave chase to Bacote and ordered him to the ground. Recovered from Bacote’s pocket was a .38 special handgun. Later that night Bacote provided a taped confession to Baltimore City detectives and confessed to shooting at Kevin Morgan because of an ongoing dispute. Initially officers were not certain if a victim or anyone had been struck but a hospital canvas revealed that a walk-in shooting victim shot in the 1300 block of West North Avenue location was admitted. Kevin Morgan was located at Shock Trauma suffering from a gunshot wound to his back. He was later released from the hospital and is expected to make a full recovery. Darius Bacote was 16-years old at the time of the shooting.

Assistant State’s Attorney Andrew Kowalczyk prosecuted this case.

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/5282008_2.htm PRESS RELEASE 8F5BAB58-FE68-4DF6-B437-945D90BCB202 Thu, 29 May 2008 07:42:20 -0400
TIMOTHY D. PRICE, III PLEADS GUILTY TO SECOND-DEGREE RAPE; SENTENCING SCHEDULED FOR AUGUST 1, 2008

Baltimore, MD – May 28, 2008 – At a hearing today, Timothy D. Price, III, 31, of Owings Mills, MD pled guilty to second-degree rape. Under terms of his plea agreement, announced in open court, he faces a prison term of 20-years suspend all but a cap of seven-years. Judge Robert B. Kershaw ordered a pre-sentence investigation and a court psychiatric evaluation and set sentencing for 4:00PM August 1, 2008.

Price, a music pastor at Bethel A.M.E. Zion church, admitted in court to having sexual intercourse with a 12-year-old victim on three occasions at different locations between December 2007 and January 2008.

Price remains held on $1 million bail in the Baltimore City Jail.

Assistant State’s Attorney Katherine Moxley of the Sex Offense Division prosecuted this case.

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/5282008.htm PRESS RELEASE 1C1F5996-C44B-4F3C-905A-5FA88DF0D24B Wed, 28 May 2008 15:17:15 -0400 MEDIA ADVISORY <br /> <br /> DOMINIC BROWN INDICTED ON FIRST-DEGREE MURDER AND ATTEMPTED MURDER <br /> <br /> Baltimore, MD – May 27, 2008 – State’s Attorney Patricia C. Jessamy announced today that the Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Dominic Brown, 27, of the 1300 block of Vida Drive for first-degree murder and attempted murder. <br /> <br /> Court documents allege that on May 4, 2008, Brown was responsible for shooting two victims in the 3200 block of Belair Road. The first victim, Sean Michael Henderson, 36, was escorting two females to their vehicles from an establishment in the unit block when Brown approached the trio and engaged in a brief conversation. Shortly afterward, Brown produced a handgun and began firing at the victim striking him several times. Henderson died from his injuries at Johns Hopkins Hospital. A second victim was shot in the leg and survived his injuries.<br /> <br /> An arraignment is scheduled for June 28, 2008 before Judge Sylvester Cox, Room 203 Mitchell Courthouse. <br /> <br /> ### http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/5272008_2.htm MEDIA ADVISORY F9C20415-D11B-4CC7-B398-16AC4721C0EB Wed, 28 May 2008 07:59:03 -0400
TIMOTHY PRICE RAPE AND SEX OFFENSE TRIAL SCHEDULED TO BEGIN WEDNESDAY, MAY 28, 2008

Baltimore, MD – May 27, 2008 – The rape and sex offense trial of Timothy Price, 31, of Owings Mills, MD is scheduled to begin at 9:30AM tomorrow before Judge Robert B. Kershaw, 406 Mitchell Courthouse, 110 N. Calvert Street.

The Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Price February 27, 2008 of second-degree rape, sex offense and sexual child abuse.

Court documents allege Price had sexual intercourse with a 12-year-old victim on three occasions at different locations between December 2007 and January 2008.

Price remains held on $1 million bail in the Baltimore City Jail.

Assistant State’s Attorney Katherine Moxley of the Sex Offense Division will prosecute this case.

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/5272008.htm MEDIA ADVISORY E89C62DE-63A0-44F2-8735-3D23B9018DE1 Wed, 28 May 2008 07:54:41 -0400 Prosecutors and other criminal justice partners have volunteered at Cecil Elementary -- Culminating Event: Mock Trail involving "Humpty Dumpty" today at 9:30 AM--Room 5 at North Avenue -- District Court Building 8D70BD4A-514D-4A62-99D1-3EDF4F51E565 Tue, 27 May 2008 09:16:46 -0400
JURY FINDS MICHAEL MARTIN GUILTY OF FIRST-DEGREE MURDER OF PHILIP CALVIN AIREY, Jr. LATE FRIDAY AFTERNOON, MAY 23

TWO OTHER CO-DEFENDANTS PLEADED GUILTY AT EARLIER HEARINGS

Baltimore, MD – May 24, 2008 – Michael Martin, 28, of the 200 block of Allwood Road was found guilty late Friday afternoon May 23 of first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder and assault and deadly weapon charges before the Honorable John Addison Howard. The maximum sentence for first-degree murder is life in prison. Sentencing is scheduled August 14, 2008.

On June 20, 2007 Anne Arundel County Fire Department responded to the scene of a car fire in the field off a ramp leading to West Nursery Road off of I-295. The firefighters noticed the 1993 Chevrolet Prism gas cap was missing, license plates were missing and the area around the car was also burned. When fire officials popped the trunk they found decomposed remains of a body later identified as Philip Calvin Airey Jr., 36.

Statement of facts. Philip Airey had been reported missing by his mother on June 19, 2007. She last saw her son on June 18 just before he left to meet Tracy Asbury at a local bar. According to witness statements, Airey arrived alone, ordered two drinks before Asbury showed up at the bar. The two were observed by witnesses having drinks and playing pool together for several hours before Asbury left the bar alone at midnight. Asbury was observed on her cell phone as she left the bar. Cell phone records revealed that Asbury was calling Michael Martin and Robert Speake. Airey ordered his last drink after Asbury left at 12:07 a.m. Cell phone records indicate Asbury made several cell phone calls to Airey between 12:40 and 12:42 a.m. Shortly after that time Airey arrived at the house on Pennington Avenue. According to witnesses, upon his entrance to the house he was met with fists, kicks and punches in the living room. The fight moved down into the basement where he was further assaulted and ultimately stabbed to death. Witnesses at the house at the time of the assault gave statements that they saw Michael Martin, Tracy Asbury and Robert Speake assault Airey and later saw a body wrapped in a blanket and a sleeping bag in the basement of the house. Another witness gave a statement that the next day, in the early morning, he saw Philip Airey’s prism in the alley and that Tracy Asbury was standing next to the vehicle and the trunk of the car was open. Witnesses gave statements that Asbury had spoken openly about an elaborate plan to assault Airey over the course of several weeks.

Speake, 19, pled guilty April 7, 2008 to second-degree murder, conspiracy to commit first-degree assault and use of a deadly weapon (knife) with intent to injure. Under terms of the plea agreement Speake was to testify truthfully in the Asbury trial. and will receive a prison term of 58-years suspend all but 43-years at a later date.

Tracy Asbury plead guilty May 14 to second-degree murder and conspiracy to assault before the Honorable John Addison Howard. As part of her plea agreement with the state, Asbury will receive a sentence of 55-years suspend all but 33-years and a 5-year probation term. Sentencing has been held sub-curia until the Martin case concluded.

Michael Martin is the last co-defendant to be convicted.

Assistant State’s Attorney Theresa Shaffer of the Homicide Division prosecuted this case.]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/52408.htm MEDIA ADVISORY 7F1B3B90-3839-47E9-8D91-C29E253AB76D Tue, 27 May 2008 08:12:19 -0400
New CDS Case Dismissed After Request for Postponement Denied

Prosecutor and Probation Agent Move Forward with Mini-Trial and Introduce Letter

During VOP Hearing Where Defendant Admits Drug Possession & Pleads Guilty

May 23, 2008 Baltimore, MD Nathaniel Wells, 26, was convicted of first-degree assault on February 10, 2006. He was found guilty of setting a female victim ablaze using lighter fluid. He was sentenced to 12-years suspend all but 3-years and placed on 5-years probation upon his release from prison. The case was prosecuted by the Felony Family Violence Division.

Mr. Wells was released from incarceration on November 21, 2007 and began probation supervision. He was arrested 22 days later on December 23, 2007 for possession of a controlled dangerous substance (CDS). He prayed a jury trial on January 28, 2008. On January 29, 2008 the defense asked for a postponement which was granted by the Court. On February 25, the State asked for a postponement because one of the necessary police officers involved in the case was out of town. The defense objected to the postponement and the Court denied the State’s postponement request.

The defendant was facing a violation of probation (VOP) and the State filed notice to proceed on the violation. On May 19, 2008 a hearing was conducted and a letter from the defendant was introduced as evidence. In the letter, the defendant admitted to possessing CDS. The defendant subsequently pled guilty to violating his probation. The defendant was then sentenced to 6-years incarceration on the VOP.

The prosecution was in collaboration with the Family Felony Violence Division of the State’s Attorney’s Office and the Violence Prevention Unit (VPU) of the Division of Parole and Probation and the Collateral Division of the Baltimore City State’s Attorney’s Office.

###]]> 1B31D4F6-7530-408A-8C5B-0BFA609EF320 Tue, 27 May 2008 07:47:11 -0400
JOSHUA RICE PLEADS GUILTY TO SECOND-DEGREE MURDER

2004 Cold Case Yields 2006 DNA CODIS Hit Leading to 2008 Murder Charge & Plea

Baltimore, MD – May 20, 2008 – In a case that illustrates the complexities of DNA testing of convicted offenders and the significant time gaps between offender testing and a CODIS DNA hit and the filing of a criminal charge, Joshua Rice, 27, of the 500 block of Yale Avenue pled guilty today to the May 2004 murder of Jennifer Fishbach, 32. Judge Gale Rasin sentenced Rice to the maximum possible 30-year prison term for second-degree murder.

Timeline

2002 Legislature passes bill to collect DNA from convicted felons
April 2003 Joshua Rice was convicted of 1st degree assault and sentenced to 10-years in prison suspend all but 2-years and released prior to July 2004 and placed on probation and parole supervision
July 2004 Joshua Rice pleads guilty to a violation of probation and receives additional 2-years of suspended sentence
July 2005 Joshua Rice was released from prison and placed on parole
February 2006 Joshua Rice is arrested for disorderly conduct, receives sentence of time served in March 2006
December 2006 CODIS DNA Hit September 19, 2007 Joshua Rice arrested for open container, held on $7,000 bail
October 2007 Joshua Rice parole expires January 9, 2008 Joshua Rice charged and confesses to Fishbach murder
January 11, 2008 Joshua Rice found guilty of open container
May 20, 2008 Joshua Rice pleads guilty to second-degree murder

On May 22, 2004, Baltimore police officers responded to a call of an unresponsive person in the 1200 block of Bayard Avenue and found the decomposed body of victim Jennifer Fishbach in a second floor bedroom. The victim was found with a wire coat hanger wrapped around her neck. An autopsy revealed the cause of death was strangulation. Police were able to recover DNA from the victim’s clothing. In December 2006 a search of Maryland’s DNA database resulted in a match of DNA from the victim’s clothing to the DNA of convicted felon Joshua Rice. In January 2008, Joshua Rice confessed to killing the victim.

Rice was convicted of first degree assault in April 2003. He was in custody last fall following an arrest for open container.

Assistant State’s Attorney Joshua J. Felsen prosecuted this case.

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/5202008.htm PRESS RELEASE 62101F34-961F-41A8-AEF3-2578E6A7DA61 Wed, 21 May 2008 07:47:01 -0400 Baltimore, MD – May 20, 2008 – The second-degree assault trial of Jerome Hill, 35, of Middle River, MD, originally scheduled to begin today, has been postponed until July 29, 2008 by mutual request. <br /> <br /> Hill, a Baltimore Police officer, was criminally charged with second-degree assault February 5, 2008. <br /> <br /> Court documents allege on January 24, 2008 at 5:46PM in the unit block of N. Clinton Street the Integrity Testing Unit of the Internal Investigation Division conducted a targeted integrity test in which a call for service for a suspicious person was dispatched. Officer Hill allegedly responded and without provocation struck an undercover Detective in the jaw with a closed fist. <br /> <br /> Hill is released on $25,000 bail. Assistant State’s Attorney A. Thomas Krehely, Chief of the Police Misconduct Division, will prosecute this case. UPDATE 43322282-70DB-4729-A61D-5BA3F31A2D72 Tue, 20 May 2008 16:30:18 -0400 Baltimore, MD – May 20, 2008 – The second-degree assault trial of Jerome Hill, 35, of Middle River, MD is scheduled to begin at 2:00PM today before Judge Gale E. Rasin, 509 Courthouse East, 111 N. Calvert St. <br /> <br /> Hill, a Baltimore Police officer, was criminally charged with second-degree assault February 5, 2008. <br /> <br /> Court documents allege on January 24, 2008 at 5:46PM in the unit block of N. Clinton Street the Integrity Testing Unit of the Internal Investigation Division conducted a targeted integrity test in which a call for service for a suspicious person was dispatched. Officer Hill allegedly responded and without provocation struck an undercover Detective in the jaw with a closed fist. <br /> <br /> Hill is released on $25,000 bail. Assistant State’s Attorney A. Thomas Krehely, Chief of the Police Misconduct Division, will prosecute this case. 76D324D1-3862-4852-9D56-58F1C5F426FC Tue, 20 May 2008 13:23:59 -0400
OCTAVIUS SAVAGE SENTENCED TO LIFE PLUS 30-YEARS IN PRISON FOLLOWING APRIL 2008 SECOND-DEGREE MURDER CONVICTION

Jury Convicted Savage April 10, 2008

Baltimore, MD – May 19, 2008 – Today Judge John N. Prevas sentenced Octavius Savage, 22, of Waldorf, Maryland to life plus 30-years for conspiracy to commit murder and second-degree murder of Donald Raymond Russell.

A Baltimore City Jury convicted Savage April 10, 2008 of second-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder, robbery, first and second-degree assault and conspiracy to commit robbery.

Savage murdered Donald Raymond Russell, 64, between April 30 and May 3, 2006 at Mr. Russell's residence in the 1400 block of N. Dukeland Street. Evidence introduced at trial showed that Savage shared a house with Russell. Russell’s partial remains were found in Waldorf, Maryland.

Savage’s girlfriend, Tiffany Natasha Brown, 22, pleaded guilty in August 2007 to conspiracy to commit first-degree murder. Her sentencing has been held sub-curia according to terms of her plea agreement. She will be sentenced on June 10, 2008 before Judge Prevas.

Assistant State’s Attorney Josh Felsen of the Homicide Division prosecuted this case.

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/5192008.htm PRESS RELEASE 8D0CAB8C-0D88-4219-ABEE-DC63D42D625F Tue, 20 May 2008 07:51:33 -0400 At his arraignment today, Mark Castillo entered a not guilty plea. A NCR motion (Not Criminally Responsible) was filed with the court. Judge Timothy J. Doory continued the case to August 22, 2008 at 9:30 AM, Part 46, for trial. He remains held without bail. UPDATE CBC836A4-437B-43B8-85F4-4CA1621F9731 Mon, 19 May 2008 12:48:32 -0400
DONNELL WILLIAMS AKA ERNEST KNOX SENTENCED TO LIFE SUSPEND ALL BUT 100 YEARS FOLLOWING FIRST-DEGREE MURDER CONVICTION

Brutal Hotel Attack Captured on Private Security Video

Baltimore, MD – May 16, 2008 – Judge Robert Kershaw sentenced three men for their participation in the brutal attack assault on Cecil Saunders today.

On March 14, 2008 a city jury convicted Ernest Knox aka Donnell Williams, 25, of the 900 block of Woodington Road of first-degree murder, first-degree assault and conspiracy to commit first-degree assault. Judge Kershaw sentenced Knox to life suspend all but 100 years for the first degree murder of Cecil Saunders and 20 years for the conspiracy to first degree assault to run consecutively.

On March 14, 2008 Judge Kershaw convicted Leneal Montay Collins, 30, of the unit block of South Wickham Road and Demetrius Williams, 19, of the 5900 block of Deywalt Avenue of first-degree assault and conspiracy to commit first-degree assault.

Judge Kershaw sentenced Demetrius Williams to 25-years in prison for assault and 20 years for conspiracy to assault to run consecutively.

Judge Kershaw sentenced Collins to 25 years for the conspiracy to committ assault in the first degree and ten years for the assault in the second degree.

On August 9, 2006 police identified Knox on a private, security camera beating and kicking Cecil Saunders, 28, in the head and chest inside a stairwell at the Executive Inn in the 3600 block of Pulaski Highway. Knox kicked Saunders 35 times. Demetrius Williams and Collins participated in the attack.

Assistant State’s Attorney Diana Smith of the Homicide Division prosecuted this case.

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/5162008_2.htm PRESS RELEASE CCA3BB5D-E8D5-445B-A45B-9BFBB6AAFF7D Mon, 19 May 2008 07:48:38 -0400 Baltimore, MD – May 16, 2008 – Octavius Savage, 21, of Waldorf, MD is scheduled for sentencing 9:30AM Monday, May 19, 2008 before Judge John N. Prevas, 528 Courthouse East, 111 N. Calvert St. <br /> <br /> A Baltimore City Jury convicted Savage April 10, 2008 of second-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder, robbery, first and second-degree assault and conspiracy to commit robbery. <br /> <br /> Savage murdered Donald Raymond Russell, 64, between April 30 and May 3, 2006 at Mr. Russell's residence in the 1400 block N. Dukeland Street. Russell’s partial remains were found in Waldorf, MD. <br /> <br /> Savage remains held without bail. Assistant State’s Attorney Josh Felsen of the Homicide Division prosecuted this case. 83A7C125-FC1E-47C1-83AB-BA87F1548252 Mon, 19 May 2008 07:47:38 -0400
MARK CASTILLO TO BE ARRAIGNMED ON THREE COUNTS OF FIRST-DEGREE MURDER AND CHILD ABUSE RESULTING IN DEATH MONDAY MAY 19, 2008

Baltimore, MD – May 16, 2008 – An arraignment for Mark Castillo, 42, of Rockville, Maryland is scheduled for 9:30AM Monday, May 19, 2008 before Judge W. Michel Pierson, 329 Courthouse East, 111 North Calvert Street.

The Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Castillo April 28, 2008 for three counts of first-degree murder and three counts of child abuse resulting in death.

Court documents allege on March 30, 2008, Mark Castillo drowned his three children Anthony Castillo, 6, Austin Castillo, 4, and Athena Castillo, 2, in the bathtub of the Marriott Hotel in downtown Baltimore City.

Castillo remains held without bail at the Baltimore City Detention Center. Assistant State’s Attorney and Chief of the Felony Family Violence Division Julie Drake will prosecute this case.

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/5162008.htm MEDIA ADVISORY 9E039994-C418-4F2E-9C0E-4C3831EA9924 Fri, 16 May 2008 15:01:02 -0400 Baltimore, MD – May 15, 2008 – Ernest Knox aka Donnell Williams and Anthony Monroe, both recently convicted of murder, are scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Robert B. Kershaw, 406 Mitchell Courthouse, 110 North Calvert Street. Anthony Monroe will be sentenced at 9 a.m. and Ernest Knox aka Donnell Williams is to be sentenced at 2 p.m. <br /> <br /> Victim impact statements are expected to be delivered in both cases. UPDATE 8197EDD9-DA4F-4B72-806D-5AEB9D88B648 Fri, 16 May 2008 08:09:11 -0400
TRACY ASBURY PLEADS GUILTY TO SECOND-DEGREE MURDER AND CONSPIRACY TO ASSAULT FIRST-DEGREE

Baltimore, MD – May 14, 2008 – Tracy Asbury plead guilty today to second -degree murder and conspiracy to commit first-degree assault before the Honorable John Addison Howard. The maximum sentence for second degree murder is 30-years and 25 years for conspiracy to assault. Sentencing will be held sub-curia with a date to be set.

On June 20, 2007 Anne Arundel County Fire Department responded to the scene of a car fire in the field off a ramp leading to West Nursery Road off of I-295. The firefighters noticed the 1993 Chevrolet Prism gas cap was missing, license plates were missing and the area around the car was also burned. When fire officials popped the trunk they found decomposed remains of a body later identified as Philip Calvin Airey Jr., 36.

Statement of facts. Philip Airey had been reported missing by his mother on June 19, 2007. She last saw her son on June 18 just before he left to meet Tracy Asbury at a local bar. According to witness statements, Airey arrived alone, ordered two drinks before Asbury showed up at the bar. The two were observed by witnesses having drinks and playing pool together for several hours before Asbury left the bar alone at midnight. Asbury was observed on her cell phone as she left the bar. Cell phone records revealed that Asbury was calling Michael Martin and Robert Speake. Airey ordered his last drink after Asbury left at 12:07 a.m. Cell phone records indicate Asbury made several cell phone calls to Airey between 12:40 and 12:42 a.m. Shortly after that time Airey arrived at the house on Pennington Avenue. According to witnesses, upon his entrance to the house he was met with fists, kicks and punches in the living room. The fight moved down into the basement where he was further assaulted and ultimately stabbed to death. Witnesses at the house at the time of the assault gave statements that they saw Michael Martin, Tracy Asbury and Robert Speake assault Airey and later saw a body wrapped in a blanket and a sleeping bag in the basement of the house. Another witness gave a statement that the next day, in the early morning, he saw Philip Airey’s prism in the alley and that Tracy Asbury was standing next to the vehicle and the trunk of the car was open. Witnesses gave statements that Asbury had spoken openly about an elaborate plan to assault Airey over the course of several weeks.

Speake, 19, pled guilty April 7, 2008 to second-degree murder, conspiracy to commit first-degree assault and use of a deadly weapon (knife) with intent to injure. Under terms of the plea agreement Speake was to testify truthfully in the Asbury trial. and will receive a prison term of 58-years suspend all but 43-years at a later date.

Michael Martin’s murder trial is pending.

Assistant State’s Attorney Theresa Shaffer of the Homicide Division prosecuted this case. ###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/5142008.htm MEDIA ADVISORY 46252FDF-D7B7-4E83-989A-1EBB0874F879 Thu, 15 May 2008 07:52:12 -0400
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

State's Attorney Jessamy To Sign Agreement with Community Parthers, Criminal Justice Agencies to Begin T.R.E.E.S. Program

2:30PM TODAY, Wednesday, May 14 at Wabash District Courthouse WHO: State's Attorney Patricia C. Jessamy, District Court Judges, Police, Mayor's office, community agencies, business and educational institutions, community members

WHEN: 2:30PM Wednesday, May 14, 2008 WHERE: Borgerding Courthouse Building (Wabash District Court), 5800 Wabash Avenue, Baltimore, MD, Courtroom 1 WHAT: State's Attorney Jessamy wiill kick-offthe T.R.E.E.S. (Training, Resources, Education, Empowerment, and Success) program with representatives of partner agencies. The T.R.E.E.S. program is a collaborative effort between the Office of the State’s Attorney for Baltimore City and various community based agencies and businesses and educational institutions to provide positive intervention and guidance to 18 to 21 year old first-time non-violent offenders who reside in Baltimore City. (See attachment for full description and overview of the T.R.E.E.S. program.)

The T.R.E.E.S. program is a ½ day resource forum for participants to obtain information about education and training opportunities from our partner agencies and learn how to become involved in their community. The T.R.E.E.S. program will operate as a pilot program in the Northern, Western and Northwest Districts.

CONTACT:

Terrell Warren, Baltimore City State's Attorney's Office Community Coordinator, (410) 878-8186 OR Joe Sviatko, Baltimore City State's Attorney's Office PIO (410) 790-3248]]> CBD19B9E-AB06-4878-878E-689AD2AA336E Wed, 14 May 2008 09:22:10 -0400 Baltimore, MD – May 13, 2008 – The murder trial of Larry Joseph, 29, of the 900 block of North Streeper Street, originally scheduled to begin today, has been postponed at the request of the defense. The new trial date is July 24, 2008. <br /> <br /> The Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Joseph November 9, 2007 for two counts of first-degree murder and related handgun counts. <br /> <br /> Court documents allege that on September 16, 2007 in the 3400 block of Belair Road Joseph fatally shot Deion Morris and Channing Myrick. <br /> <br /> Joseph remains held without bail at the Baltimore Detention Center. Assistant State’s Attorney Rich Gibson of the Homicide Division will prosecute this case. UPDATE E9EF3157-D9F2-42B6-9741-596CA1DA1C23 Tue, 13 May 2008 03:48:57 -0400
MICHAEL MARTIN AND TRACY ASBURY FIRST-DEGREE MURDER TRIAL SCHEDULED TO BEGIN WEDNESDAY, MAY 14, 2008

Baltimore, MD – May 13, 2008 – The murder trial of Michael Martin, 28, of the 200 block of Allwood Road and Tracy Asbury, 37, of the 4800 block of Pennington Avenue is scheduled to begin 9:30AM tomorrow before Judge John A. Howard, 438 Mitchell Courthouse, 110 North Calvert Street.

The Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Martin and Asbury July 16, 2007 on first degree murder and other counts.

Court documents allege Martin, Robert Speake and Asbury were responsible for an incident that occurred on June 20, 2007. The body of Phillip Calvin Airey Jr. was found in a burning car on Route 295 in Linthicum that day. Airey had been beaten and stabbed before the car was set on fire.

Speake, 19, pled guilty April 7, 2008 to second-degree murder, conspiracy to commit first-degree assault and use of a deadly weapon (knife) with intent to injure. Under terms of the plea agreement Speake is to testify truthfully in this trial and will receive a prison term of 58-years suspend all but 43-years at a later date.

Assistant State’s Attorney Theresa Shaffer of the Homicide Division will prosecute this case.

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/5132008_2.htm MEDIA ADVISORY 0ED85B25-E75E-48DA-8BA8-C374CB464068 Tue, 13 May 2008 14:45:37 -0400
PAUL HIGHFIELD FIRST-DEGREE MURDER AND CHILD ABUSE RESULTING IN DEATH TRIAL SCHEDULED FOR WED., MAY 14, 2008

Baltimore, MD – May 13, 2008 – The murder and child abuse resulting in death trial of Paul Highfield, 28, of the 4000 block of Security Lane, Jarrettsville, MD is scheduled for 11:00AM tomorrow before Judge Robert B. Kershaw, 406 Mitchell Courthouse, 110 N. Calvert St.

The Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Highfield for first-degree murder and child abuse resulting in death on April 3, 2007. If convicted on both counts, Highfield faces a maximum possible prison term of life plus 30-years.

Court documents allege on September 12, 2006, Destiny D’Urso and Paul Highfield were caring for Anthony Joseph D’Urso, 2, in the 1300 block of E. Patapsco Avenue when an emergency call was placed for a non-breathing child. He was taken to Harbor Hospital where he died a short time later.

D’Urso pled guilty to manslaughter on January 14, 2008. Under terms of the plea agreement, announced in open court, D’Urso agreed to testify truthfully and honestly against Paul Highfield. There was no sentence agreement, but the maximum prison sentence for manslaughter is 10-years. A sentencing date of June 9, 2008 was scheduled.

D’Urso remains held on $350,000 bail. Highfield is held without bail. Assistant State’s Attorneys Julie Drake, Chief of the Felony Family Violence Division and Patricia McLane will prosecute this case.

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/5132008.htm MEDIA ADVISORY 80AFD293-98D6-42FC-A1C3-349062D4A3A8 Tue, 13 May 2008 14:44:24 -0400 MEDIA ADVISORY <br /> <br /> JASON ALLEN AND POWERFUL AGUILAR INDICTED FOR FIRST-DEGREE MURDER AND CONSPIRACY TO MURDER <br /> <br /> Baltimore, MD – May 12, 2008 – State’s Attorney Patricia C. Jessamy announced today that the Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Powerful Aguilar, 23, of the 1600 block of Northwick Road and Jason Allen, 24, of the 3200 block of Juneau Avenue on first-degree murder and conspiracy to murder. <br /> <br /> Court documents allege that Allen and Aguilar were responsible for a shooting incident in the 1500 block of Pentridge Road on February 15, 2008. Jeff Payne, 20, was shot when he interceded in an exchange between two individuals in a nearby apartment. He died later at Good Samaritan Hospital. <br /> <br /> An arraignment is scheduled for June 5, 2008 before Judge W. Michel Pierson, Room 329, Courthouse East. <br /> <br /> ### http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/5122008_2.htm 97EFA15C-EC66-4CC4-AAFF-F8867EF5D6B9 Tue, 13 May 2008 08:07:31 -0400
EDWARD PALMER INDICTED FOR FIRST-DEGREE MURDER CATHERINE PALMER INDICTED FOR ACCESSORY-AFTER-THE-FACT

Baltimore, MD – May 12, 2008 – State’s Attorney Patricia C. Jessamy announced today that the Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Edward Palmer, 59, of the 600 block of N. Clinton Street for first-degree murder and his wife, Catherine Palmer, 46, of the 600 block of N. Clinton Street for accessory-after-the-fact.

Court documents allege that Edward Palmer and Catherine Palmer were responsible for the death of their landlord, James Thomas Daniels on April 13, 2008. Daniel’s body allegedly was discovered to have been burned beyond recognition in a vacant construction lot near the intersection of Davidson Road and Langley.

Catherine Palmer was released on a $10,000 bail. Edward Palmer is held without bail at the Baltimore City Detention Center.

An arraignment is scheduled for June 16, 2008 before Judge Sylvester B. Cox, Room 203, Mitchell Courthouse.

###]]> http://www.stattorney.org/Press_Release/2008/5122008.htm MEDIA ADVISORY F17ED992-A986-446D-A08D-119FFFB22402 Tue, 13 May 2008 08:06:02 -0400 Baltimore, MD – May 12, 2008 – The murder trial of Larry Joseph, 29, of the 900 block of North Streeper Street is scheduled to begin at 9:30AM tomorrow before Judge Robert B. Kershaw, 406 Mitchell Courthouse, 110 North Calvert Street. <br /> <br /> The Baltimore City Grand Jury indicted Joseph November 9, 2007 for two counts of first-degree murder and related handgun counts. <br /> <br /> Court documents allege that on September 16, 2007 in the 3400 block of Belair Road Joseph fatally shot Deion Morris and Channing Myrick. <br /> <br /> Joseph remains held without bail at the Balt