Officers Cejus Watson and Alexis Acosta face charges ranging from manslaughter to theft in separate cases
Baltimore, Md. (May 4, 2023) - Today, State's Attorney Ivan J. Bates announced the indictments of Officer Cejus Watson and Officer Alexis Acosta, in separate cases, that the Public Trust and Police Integrity Unit will prosecute. An indictment is not a finding of guilt. An individual charged by indictment is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty at trial.
"The cases we bring to court are strong because of the reliable and trustworthy police officers we partner with to secure convictions," said State's Attorney Ivan J. Bates. "The allegations against these two officers damage this relationship by calling into question their integrity and ability to protect and serve the residents of our great city. As State's Attorney, I must hold them accountable like any other individual who breaks the law in Baltimore."
The grand jury indicted Officer Cejus Watson for Theft and Misconduct in Office. Officer Watson was indicted last year for the Distribution of CDS by a Baltimore County Grand Jury. The Grand Jurors for Baltimore City charged Officer Watson with Misconduct In Office and Theft of payroll funds for leaving his post in the City while he was supposed to be working to conduct the CDS transaction that he was charged with in Baltimore County.
The grand jury also indicted Officer Alexis Acosta for Manslaughter, Reckless Driving, Negligent Driving, Failure to Control Speed to Avoid a Collision, Death of a Vulnerable Individual Caused by Motor Vehicle, and Driving an Emergency Vehicle Without Regard for Safety of Persons. The indictment alleges that Acosta caused the death of Terry Harrell by driving, operating, and controlling a vehicle and vessel in a criminally negligent manner. He faces a maximum penalty of three years in prison and $2500 in fines if found guilty of all charges.
Click here to download the speaking indictment for Officer Cejus Watson
Click here to download the indictment for Officer Alexis Acosta