In The News

Man released from prison nearly 30 years after wrongful murder conviction, state attorney says

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James Langhorne was 24 when he was convicted in 1996 for the November 1993 murder of 24-year-old Laurence A. Jones Jr. on the 1400 block of Bank Street. Langhorne maintained his innocence throughout his decades in prison. Read more.

Prosecutor Says ‘Cold-Blooded Killer’ Guilty of Thanksgiving Week Murder

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Prosecution and defense counsel gave closing statements on the fifth day of Kemonta Johnson’s jury trial on Feb. 6 and debated the legitimacy of admitted evidence, which includes cellphone records, a 9mm Ruger handgun recovered from the scene and Kemonta Johnson’s 2007 Chevrolet Uplander minivan. Read more.

Man Pleads Guilty to Fratricide

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A man accused of fatally shooting his brother and fleeing to North Carolina pleaded guilty to first-degree murder and firearm use in a violent crime before Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Melissa K. Copeland on Feb. 6. Michael D. Conley, 35, fatally shot 27-year-old brother Devon Thomas on April 11, 2024 following a dispute in the 3400 block of Spelman Road. Read more.

Man found guilty of assaulting 2 protesters outside Planned Parenthood in Baltimore

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Brice, 28, of West Baltimore, did not dispute that he beat up the two men. But he argued that he did not intend to seriously injure them. Read more.

Baltimore woman's false allegations against rapper T.I. spurs State's Attorney's support for new bill

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"Too often we see individuals that have arrest warrants put out on them for whatever reason, then they're detained , they're locked up, and they're arrested for whatever reason they've lost jobs, they've lost time from their community," said Bates. Read more.

Man pleads guilty in viral attack after Baltimore Ravens-Washington Commanders game

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In a statement Monday, Bates called the behavior seen in the viral video “abhorrent,” and said the outcome conveys that his office will not tolerate hate-filled acts. “There is never a scenario in which violence is acceptable in our city,” Bates said. Read more.

Pragmatic Prosecutors: Convictions in Baltimore surge with state’s attorney’s ‘smart on crime’ policies

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Bates campaigned on cracking down on gun violence and restarting prosecutions for nonviolent crimes such as drug possession, prostitution, and trespassing. He promised to improve technology in the state’s attorney’s office, hire and train more staff, and work closely with federal authorities. Read more.

Man found guilty of murder after pushing person onto subway tracks in Baltimore

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“In a callous act of violence, the defendant pushed the victim not once, but twice, ensuring that he tragically fell from the subway station platform to his death,” Bates said. “It is unfathomable to consider the anguish of a family awaiting a loved one who will never return due to such senseless brutality.” Read more.

Judge Sentences Metro Track Murder Defendant to 40 Years

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On April 12, 2023, White and Foster were riding in the same train car when White observed an interaction between Foster and other passengers. Foster was seated next to a female passenger who became agitated by his presence. After three young passengers entered the train and started to interact with Foster, White testified that, “I was just trying to defuse the situation.” Read more.

Maryland inmates serving life terms could earn early release under new bill; some state’s attorneys oppose it -

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Bates said he believes in second chances and will support the Second Look Act. “This bill represents a beacon of hope, offering individuals who have proven their rehabilitation through measurable actions, as determined by a judge before their release, the opportunity to reclaim their place in society,” Bates said. “Moreover, it stands to save the state millions of dollars by ending the costly practice of warehousing those ready to contribute meaningfully. By investing in those ready to reintegrate, we can foster a society where everyone has the chance to contribute positively. Together, we can create a future where everyone has a chance to thrive.” Read more.