In the News

Browse news coverage about the State’s Attorney’s Office.

SAO says 14 y/o release highlights breakdown in juvenile justice system

As I have said before, the state of laws in Maryland are a work in progress. It is deeply concerning when reports surface of an armed robbery at gunpoint, and the suspect is arrested but later released to go home simply because they are 14 years old. This incident starkly highlights the breakdown in the juvenile justice system, causing frustration among victims and residents alike. Fortunately, new laws that I fervently advocated for in the last legislative session will soon go into effect in about 40 days, offering hope for improvement. It is critically important to note that the suspect could have been detained in this incident, and that decision lies solely with the Department of Juvenile Services.

Greenmount Avenue Attempted Murder Defendant Sentenced to 42 Years

Defendant William Harris, represented by defense attorney Jason Rodriguez, was convicted of 10 charges Aug. 20 despite his attorney’s self-defense argument. Though five shots were fired during the incident on the intersection of 32nd Street and Greenmount Avenue, the victim was uninjured.