Automatic charging of young people as adults, regardless of offense, has been an issue several Democratic lawmakers have pushed for without success in Annapolis. In 2022, Sen. Jill Carter, D-Baltimore City, introduced a law to criminal cases involving young people in the juvenile system, with the option of ‘waiving up’ to the adult system, or essentially petitioning the court to move the case to an adult system.
Over the past 2 years Baltimore State's Attorney Ivan Bates says his office has been able to increase the number of people it put behind bars, which he says brings down violent crimes in the city.
A Waverly man who killed a longtime Johns Hopkins University professor 30 years ago was just sentenced to 20 years for robbing the Ace Hardware store where he once worked.
Jaymyra Burrell, 19, died after she was shot around 3 a.m. on December 4, 2022, in the 5600 block of Woodmont Avenue. Charging documents said Burrell was shot nine times and a witness told investigators that McCormick admitted to the murder.
Alethea Mitchell is facing multiple firearm charges, including firearm possession with a felony conviction, possession of a stolen firearm and allowing firearm access by a minor, according to online court records.
“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.”
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.”
The jury found King guilty of attempted first-degree murder, firearm use in a felony or violent crime, use of an assault weapon with a magazine, firearm possession with a felony conviction, conspiracy to commit first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit first-degree assault.
Betters, who was represented by defense attorney Michael Tomko, was tried before a jury in September 2024 and found guilty of second-degree murder, firearm use in a felony or violent crime and firearm possession with a felony conviction. Judge Yolanda A. Tanner presided over the five-day trial and imposed his sentence on Tuesday.
