Press Release
State’s Attorney Bates Enters His Appearance in Gordon Staron Case
January 20, 2023
Baltimore, Md. (January 20, 2023) - Today, State’s Attorney Ivan J. Bates entered his appearance in court as the prosecutor assigned to the case against Gordon Staron for his alleged role in the fatal strangulation of Javarick Gantt. Staron has been charged with First Degree Murder, First Degree Assault, Second Degree Assault, and Second Degree Murder. In a second case, Staron has also been charged with First Degree Murder, First Degree Assault, Second Degree Assault, Openly Wearing and Carrying a Dangerous Weapon, and Second Degree Murder for his alleged role in the death of Keith Bell at the 1400 block of E. Monument Street. Assistant State’s Attorney Tonya LaPolla will prosecute that case.
“It is critically important to me to maintain my skills as a trial attorney while leading this office. There is no better way to understand the challenges that face our Assistant State’s Attorneys than to be in the trenches with them fighting for justice,” said State’s Attorney Ivan J. Bates. “I have a long track record of fighting to protect our older adults and vulnerable populations, and I remain committed to both. The allegations, in these cases, are alarming. While I cannot discuss details of ongoing and pending investigations, I can say that my team and I will do everything in our power to bring closure to Mr. Gantt’s and Mr. Bell’s families.”