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Assault Charges filed Against Howard County Police Officer

August 2, 2013 by

Charges for Assault Filed Against Police Officer
Second degree assault charges were filed against a Howard County Police Officer after a county grand jury returned an indictment this past week, reported The Baltimore Sun. The assault charges arise out of an incident on March 18 when the officer was off duty. Further details regarding the incident were not given.

Assault Charges: Definition of Assault

Assault charges can be filed where someone threatens or harms another person.

Assault in the second degree happens when one person physically injures another. The injuries can be minor or cause physical injury, but not serious or permanent injury.

Second-degree assault also includes causing a reasonable person to fear imminent physical harm. This means that even if you did not physically touch another person but you caused them to have a reasonable fear of being hurt by you, you could potentially be charged with assault.

Top Rated Howard County Criminal Lawyer

Jonathan Scott Smith is a former prosecutor and highly rated Howard County criminal lawyer with extensive experience in cases involving assault charges. Mr. Smith’s trial experience — and track record of successful results — has earned him the recognition of his peers and clients:

  • Maryland Super Lawyer.
  • “10.0 Superb” as a litigation attorney by AVVO.
  • “Client’s Choice Award” by AVVO, based on average client reviews of 5 stars — the highest client review possible.
  • Client Distinction Award (Client Review Rating of 4.5 or higher on 5.0 scale – less than 4% of 900,000+ attorneys listed by Martindale-Hubbell)
  • 2013 Top Attorneys in Maryland (American Registry)
  • 2013 Top Rated Lawyer by The American Lawyer Magazine and Martindale-Hubbell.
  • “AV-Preeminent™*” Highest Peer Rating by Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory (25 consecutive years).

These are the highest ratings possible for legal skill, ethical practice, a lawyer’s years in practice, disciplinary history, professional achievements and industry recognition.

Criminal Defense Lawyer Columbia, MD and Ellicott City, MD

Attorney Smith has built his strong reputation on a commitment to personal service and attention, taking the time to listen carefully to your concerns and to tailor his efforts to fight for the outcome you want. He handles all types of criminal matters, including first degree assault, second degree assault, other assault charges, and homicide charges.

Contact Us Now

When you face criminal charges, including assault charges, attorney Jonathan Scott Smith will aggressively fight for you.

We represent people charged with a crime in Howard County, Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Frederick County, Prince George’s County and Montgomery County, Maryland. Call our office at 410-740-0101, or contact us online, to schedule an appointment.

 

Filed Under: Assault, Criminal Defense, criminal defense lawyer, criminal lawyer, defense attorney, District Court for Howard County, Domestic Assault, Domestic Violence, domestic violence attorney, domestic violence lawyer

Man Wanted in Assault Case

June 11, 2013 by

Assault Arises from Traffic Dispute
Baltimore County Police asked for the public’s help in apprehending a suspect wanted for first degree assault. The 39-year-old victim and his father were pulling into their driveway when a vehicle blocked their path. The victim got out of his car and confronted the other driver.

The victim and the suspect got into an argument, and the suspect tried to pull the victim into the vehicle. The suspect hit the victim in the chest multiple times, and then drove away. The victim then realized he had been stabbed. He was treated at Shock Trauma for his injuries.

Top Rated Howard County Criminal Lawyer

Jonathan Scott Smith is a former prosecutor and highly rated Howard County criminal lawyer with extensive experience in assault cases. Mr. Smith’s trial experience — and track record of successful results — has earned him the recognition of his peers and clients:

  • Maryland Super Lawyer.
  • “10.0 Superb” as a litigation attorney by AVVO.
  • “Client’s Choice Award” by AVVO, based on average client reviews of 5 stars — the highest client review possible.
  • Client Distinction Award (Client Review Rating of 4.5 or higher on 5.0 scale – less than 4% of 900,000+ attorneys listed by Martindale-Hubbell)
  • 2013 Top Attorneys in Maryland (American Registry)
  • 2013 Top Rated Lawyer by The American Lawyer Magazine and Martindale-Hubbell.
  • “AV-Preeminent™*” Highest Peer Rating by Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory (25 consecutive years).

These are the highest ratings possible for legal skill, ethical practice, a lawyer’s years in practice, disciplinary history, professional achievements and industry recognition.

Criminal Defense Lawyer Columbia, MD and Ellicott City, MD

Attorney Smith has built his strong reputation on a commitment to personal service and attention, taking the time to listen carefully to your concerns and to tailor his efforts to fight for the outcome you want. He handles all types of criminal matters, including first degree assault, second degree assault, other assault, firearms violations and assault/homicide charges.

Contact Us Now

When you face criminal charges, attorney Jonathan Scott Smith will aggressively fight for your constitutional rights. Call our office at 410-740-0101, or contact us online, to schedule an appointment.

We represent people charged with a crime in Howard County, Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Frederick County, Prince George’s County and Montgomery County, Maryland.

 

Filed Under: Assault, Criminal Defense, criminal defense lawyer, criminal lawyer, defense attorney, Domestic Assault, Domestic Violence, domestic violence attorney, domestic violence lawyer

Driving with Suspended License in Maryland

June 11, 2013 by

Driving with Suspended License is Serious
In Maryland, a driver’s license can be suspended for many reasons. Often it is caused by a mistake, or an oversight, but it can lead to serious consequences. Some of the reasons the Maryland MVA will suspend a driver’s license:

  • Failing to pay a traffic ticket.
  • Failing to pay a fine after appearing in traffic court.
  • Failing to appear in court for a traffic ticket.
  • Moving to a new address and not notifying the MVA, and then not receiving a notice to appear in court for a traffic ticket.
  • Receiving too many points (MVA can suspend a driver’s license for an accumulation of 8  points or more).
  • Being convicted of DWI/DUI, driving under the influence, or driving while impaired.

Many people charged with driving with suspended licence in Maryland are not criminals; they make a mistake, or fail to take care of a traffic ticket through an oversight.

What are the Penalties for Driving With Suspended License?

The penalties for driving with suspended license in Maryland are serious. They range from 2 months in jail, a $500.00 fine, or both, to one year in jail, a $1,000.00 fine, or both — depending upon the reason the license was suspended. Also, a conviction can range from 3 points to 12 points — enough to revoke your driver’s license.

Top Rated Traffic Ticket Lawyer Howard County MD

Jonathan Scott Smith is a top rated traffic ticket lawyer and former prosecutor with more than 30 years of criminal law experience. He has represented many clients in Howard County, including Ellicott City and Columbia, Maryland, who have been charged with driving with suspended licence. Mr. Smith is a former prosecutor and experienced traffic ticket attorney who has handled many driving with suspended license  cases.

Mr. Smith’s extensive trial experience — and track record of successful results — has earned him the recognition of his peers and clients:

  • Maryland Super Lawyer.
  • “10.0 Superb” as a litigation attorney by AVVO.
  • “Client’s Choice Award” by AVVO, based on average client reviews of 5 stars — the highest client review possible.
  • Client Distinction Award (Client Review Rating of 4.5 or higher on 5.0 scale – less than 4% of 900,000+ attorneys listed by Martindale-Hubbell)
  • 2013 Top Attorneys in Maryland (American Registry)
  • 2013 Top Rated Lawyer by The American Lawyer Magazine and Martindale-Hubbell.
  • “AV-Preeminent™*” Highest Peer Rating by Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory (25 consecutive years).

These are the highest ratings possible for legal skill, ethical practice, a lawyer’s years in practice, disciplinary history, professional achievements and industry recognition.

Howard County Traffic Ticket Defense Attorney

We handle defense of driving with suspended license charges, and traffic tickets for individuals throughout the Baltimore and Washington metro areas. We will fully investigate the facts and evidence related to your citation, and fight hard for you.

Contact Our Office

If you need a lawyer for traffic tickets, including driving with suspended license, contact us by e-mail or call us at 410-740-0101. Put an experienced Maryland traffic violations defense lawyer to work for you. We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.

 

Filed Under: Criminal Defense, criminal defense lawyer, criminal lawyer, defense attorney, District Court for Howard County, driving with suspended license, Drunk Driving, DUI, DWI, traffic charges, Uncategorized

Burglary Charges filed Against Man in Ellicott City Burglaries

May 24, 2013 by

Burglary Cases in Ellicott City Cause Police to Detain Suspect
Burglary charges were filed against 23-year-old Cornelius Antonio McRae, a Baltimore resident, in January, reported The Baltimore Sun. Howard County police arrested and charged McRae with multiple counts of burglary, assault and theft. Police identified him as a burglary suspect through records obtained from pawn shops in the area.

Howard County Police believe that most of the thefts occurred while the victims were sleeping and that McRae entered the homes through unlocked doors. The items stolen in the various burglaries, mostly occurring in December, 2012, were similar — credit cards, money, wallets, purses and electronic devices, including laptops.

Burglary Charges Filed Against Baltimore Man

Once police considered McRae a burglary suspect, they learned through the course of their investigation that he had been seen driving a stolen 2013 Honda. On-duty officers observed the unoccupied Honda in Columbia on January 6, near the location of a burglary that had just occurred. As they watched the vehicle, McRae walked up to it with a stolen purse in hand. Police approached McRae and he fled. Officers located him in a nearby dumpster with stolen items in his possession.

McRae has been charged with four counts of first-degree burglary, third-degree burglary and fourth-degree burglary, as well as theft and second-degree assault (he resisted arrest and injured a police officer in the process). He is currently being held on $300,000 bond in Howard County.

Burglary Statistics

FBI statistics reveal that there are approximately 2.1 million burglaries in the United States annually. About 75% of those are residential burglaries. Burglaries account for one quarter of all property crimes. There were 1,393 burglaries in Howard County in 2010, according to the Howard County Police Department.

What is Burglary in the First Degree in Maryland?

Under Maryland law,  a person may not break and enter the dwelling of another with the intent to commit theft or a crime of violence. This is the definition of first degree burglary. The penalty for first degree burglary is imprisonment not exceeding 20 years.

What is Second Degree Burglary in Maryland?

There are two different violations that constitute second degree burglary. First, a person may not break and enter the storehouse of another with the intent to commit theft, a crime of violence, or arson in the second degree. If he does, he is guilty of a felony and the penalty is imprisonment not exceeding 15 years. Second,  a person may not break and enter the storehouse of another with the intent to steal, take, or carry away a firearm. This also is a felony, and the penalty is imprisonment not exceeding 20 years or a fine not exceeding $10,000 or both.

Highly Rated Criminal Defense Attorney in Maryland

Attorney Jonathan Scott Smith brings more than three decades of trial experience to criminal defendants in and around Howard County, Maryland. He has built an outstanding reputation with clients and colleagues. Mr. Smith’s extensive trial experience — and track record of successful results — has earned him the recognition of his peers and clients:

  • Maryland Super Lawyer.
  • “10.0 Superb” as a litigation attorney by AVVO.
  • “AV-Preeminent™*” Peer Rating by Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory (25 consecutive years).
  • “Client’s Choice Award” by AVVO, based on average client reviews of 5 stars — the highest client review possible.
  • 2012 Top Rated Lawyer by The American Lawyer magazine and Martindale-Hubbell.

These are the highest ratings possible for legal skill, ethical practice, a lawyer’s years in practice, disciplinary history, professional achievements and industry recognition.

Attorney Smith handles a wide range of criminal matters including theft offenses, such as burglary, robbery and possession of stolen property.

Criminal Defense Lawyer Howard County, MD

If you are under investigation or have been arrested and charged with a crime, attorney Jonathan Scott Smith will aggressively protect your constitutional rights. Call our office at 410-740-0101, or contact us online, to schedule an appointment. We represent people accused of burglary and other crimes throughout Maryland, including Howard County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Frederick County, Prince George’s County and Montgomery County.

 

 

 

Filed Under: Burglary Charges, Criminal Defense, criminal defense lawyer, criminal lawyer, defense attorney Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Suspects Arrested on Prince George’s Burglary Charges

May 24, 2013 by

Burglary Charges Related to 50+ Home Burglaries

Prince George’s County Police arrested three suspects related to a string of burglaries that occurred since December 2012, the department announced. The burglary charges involved numerous homes in Oxon Hill and Fort Washington.

According to police, the suspects took weapons, computers, jewelry, televisions and other personal belongings.  In one case, the suspects stole a safe with valuables worth nearly $70,000.

Highly Rated Criminal Defense Attorney Howard County, MD

Attorney Jonathan Scott Smith brings more than three decades of trial experience to criminal defendants in cases involving burglary charges and other criminal cases.

Mr. Smith’s extensive trial experience — and track record of successful results — has earned him the recognition of his peers and clients:

  • Maryland Super Lawyer.
  • “10.0 Superb” as a litigation attorney by AVVO.
  • “Client’s Choice Award” by AVVO, based on average client reviews of 5 stars — the highest client review possible.
  • Client Distinction Award (Client Review Rating of 4.5 or higher on 5.0 scale – less than 4% of 900,000+ attorneys listed by Martindale-Hubbell)
  • 2013 Top Attorneys in Maryland (American Registry)
  • 2013 Top Rated Lawyer by The American Lawyer Magazine and Martindale-Hubbell.
  • “AV-Preeminent™*” Highest Peer Rating by Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory (25 consecutive years).

These are the highest ratings possible for legal skill, ethical practice, a lawyer’s years in practice, disciplinary history, professional achievements and industry recognition.

Criminal Defense Lawyer Burglary Charges

If you are under investigation for burglary, or have been arrested and charged with burglary charges, attorney Jonathan Scott Smith will fight for you and aggressively protect your constitutional rights.

Contact Us

Call our office at 410-740-0101, or contact us online, to schedule an appointment. We represent people accused of burglary and other crimes throughout Maryland, including Howard County, Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Frederick County, Prince George’s County and Montgomery County.

Filed Under: Burglary Charges, Criminal Defense, criminal defense lawyer, criminal lawyer, defense attorney, Probation violation, Theft Charges

Theft of Mail Investigated by Howard County Police

May 6, 2013 by

Theft of Mail Subject of Howard County Police Investigation
Theft from mailboxes in Howard County dating back to October, 2012 caused Howard County law enforcement officers to issue an advisory to residents, reported The Baltimore Sun. The advisory asked residents to be alert for any irregularities with their mail or any missing items, and to take certain precautions to protect themselves. Thus far, the incidents have been limited to the Laurel and Clarksville areas in Howard County.

Theft of Outgoing Mail in Residents’ Mail Boxes

According to police, it appears that the perpetrators look for mailboxes with outgoing mail, as noted by mailboxes with red flags up. They steal checks from outgoing mail, change payee information on those checks, and then attempt to cash those checks at the victim’s bank. To prevent mail theft, police have recommended that residents refrain from placing mail containing checks in their mailboxes for pickup, instead dropping such items in a neighborhood collection box or bringing them to the nearest post office.

Theft of Mail Can be Avoided if Precautions are Taken

Postal authorities have also issued specific recommendations, including:

  • The prompt removal of all mail from your mailbox
  • Notification of all parties, including the sender and postal authorities, if you do not receive an anticipated check
  • Putting a hold on your mail while out of town
  • Immediately reporting if anyone other than a postal employee or homeowner is seen lurking near mailboxes

Top Rated Criminal Defense Lawyer in Columbia and Ellicott City, MD

Attorney Jonathan Scott Smith has fought for the rights of criminal defendants in Maryland for more than three decades. He has a well-earned reputation with clients and colleagues. Mr. Smith’s extensive trial experience — and track record of successful results in theft and other criminal cases — has earned him the recognition of his peers and clients:

  • Maryland Super Lawyer.
  • “10.0 Superb” as a litigation attorney by AVVO.
  • “AV-Preeminent™*” Peer Rating by Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory (25 consecutive years).
  • “Client’s Choice Award” by AVVO, based on average client reviews of 5 stars — the highest client review possible.
  • 2012 Top Rated Lawyer by The American Lawyer magazine and Martindale-Hubbell.

These are the highest ratings possible for legal skill, ethical practice, a lawyer’s years in practice, disciplinary history, professional achievements and industry recognition.

Criminal Defense Attorney, Howard County, Maryland

If you are under investigation or have been arrested and charged with theft or another crime, attorney Jonathan Scott Smith will aggressively protect your constitutional rights. Call our office at 410-740-0101, or contact us online, to schedule an appointment. We represent people accused of theft and other crimes in Howard County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Frederick County, Prince George’s County and Montgomery County,Maryland.

 

Filed Under: Criminal Defense, criminal defense lawyer, criminal lawyer, defense attorney, Theft Charges Tagged With: ,

Underage Drinking Warnings Released by Howard County Police

April 22, 2013 by

Underage Drinking at Prom and Graduation Parties
Underage drinking, a frequent occurrence at prom and graduation parties, was the focus of recent warnings by Howard County Police. With prom and graduations starting this coming weekend, county police sought to warn teens and their parents of the legal consequences of underage drinking.

Underage Drinking Can Result in Possession of Alcohol Charges

Various criminal charges can be filed if someone is caught in underage drinking. These include criminal charges for alcohol possession and possession of a fake ID. If a driver engages in underage drinking, they may be charged with violation of alcohol restriction, driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while impaired (DWI). Adults who provide alcohol to minors can be criminally charged with obtaining or furnishing alcohol to a minor.

Criminal Lawyer for Underage Drinking Charges

Mr. Smith is a top rated criminal defense attorney and former prosecutor with more than 30 years of extensive trial experience. Attorney Smith has handled thousands of criminal cases in the local courts, including numerous cases involved underage drinking.

With a solid and longstanding reputation for personal service and thorough preparation, we get many of our new cases as referrals from existing or former clients, or from other attorneys. Mr. Smith fights hard for his clients. That’s why many satisfied clients think so highly of him.

Top Rated Criminal Defense: Possession of Alcohol by Minor

Mr. Smith’s extensive trial experience — and track record of successful results — has earned him the recognition of his peers and clients:

  • Maryland Super Lawyer.
  • “10.0 Superb” as a litigation attorney by AVVO.
  • “AV-Preeminent™*” Peer Rating by Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory (25 consecutive years).
  • “Client’s Choice Award” by AVVO, based on average client reviews of 5 stars — the highest client review possible.
  • 2013 Top Rated Lawyer by The American Lawyer magazine and Martindale-Hubbell.

These are the highest ratings possible for legal skill, ethical practice, a lawyer’s years in practice, disciplinary history, professional achievements and industry recognition.

Contact Us Now

Call our office at 410-740-0101, or contact us online, to schedule an appointment. We represent people accused of underage drinking and other crimes throughout Maryland, including Howard County, Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Frederick County, Prince George’s County and Montgomery County.

We accept Visa, MasterCard, and American Express.

Filed Under: Criminal Defense, criminal defense lawyer, criminal lawyer, defense attorney, District Court for Howard County, Drunk Driving, DUI, DWI

First Degree Assault Charges Filed for Odenton Bar Shooting

April 22, 2013 by

Man Arrested and Charged with First Degree Assault for Odenton Bar Shooting

On February 1, Anne Arundel County police arrested Raynard Leo Boston, charging him with first degree assault and related charges in connection with a shooting at My Place Bar and Lounge on January 19, 2013 in Odenton, reported The Baltimore Sun. Officers were called to the bar in the 1600 block of Annapolis Road around 1:30 a.m. after reports of gunfire.

Police learned from witnesses that Boston had become involved in a verbal dispute with a bouncer at the bar and allegedly pulled a gun, firing at the employee several times. The bouncer sustained injuries to his lower body. A 34-year-old bystander also sustained a hand injury. Boston fled the scene immediately after the shooting and remained at large for nearly two weeks. The victims were taken to a nearby hospital, but their injuries were not life threatening.

Boston was taken into custody in Brooklyn Park. He has been charged with first degree assault, attempted second-degree murder, reckless endangerment and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Top-Rated Criminal Defense Attorney in Howard County, MD

Attorney Jonathan Scott Smith brings more than 30 years of courtroom experience to criminal defendants in Maryland. He has built an outstanding reputation with clients and colleagues.

Mr. Smith’s extensive trial experience — and track record of successful results — has earned him the recognition of his peers and clients:

  • Maryland Super Lawyer.
  • “10.0 Superb” as a litigation attorney by AVVO.
  • “AV-Preeminent™*” Peer Rating by Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory (25 consecutive years).
  • “Client’s Choice Award” by AVVO, based on average client reviews of 5 stars — the highest client review possible.
  • 2013 Top Rated Lawyer by The American Lawyer magazine and Martindale-Hubbell.

These are the highest ratings possible for legal skill, ethical practice, a lawyer’s years in practice, disciplinary history, professional achievements and industry recognition.

Criminal Defense Lawyer Columbia, MD and Ellicott City, MD

Attorney Smith has built his strong reputation on a commitment to personal service and attention, taking the time to listen carefully to your concerns and to tailor his efforts to fight for the outcome you want. He handles all types of criminal matters, including first degree assault, firearms violations and assault/homicide charges.

Contact Us Now

When you face criminal charges, attorney Jonathan Scott Smith will aggressively fight for your constitutional rights. Call our office at 410-740-0101, or contact us online, to schedule an appointment. We represent people charged with a crime in Howard County, Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Frederick County, Prince George’s County and Montgomery County, Maryland.

 

Filed Under: Assault, Criminal Defense, criminal defense lawyer, criminal lawyer, defense attorney Tagged With: , ,

Extortion Charges Filed Against Prince George’s County Employee

April 8, 2013 by

Extortion Charges Placed Against Building Inspector

In January, the Prince George’s County Police Department announced the arrest of  John Cleveland Brown, a building inspector with the Department of Environmental Resources, charging him with extortion. Detectives were contacted by a restaurant owner in Clinton, who told them that Brown had threatened to take away his permit unless he paid Brown $1,000 a week to have Brown’s band play at his restaurant.

The officers set up a sting in which one detective posed as the restaurant’s entertainment manager. Brown was arrested when he came to the restaurant and demanded payment from the undercover officer.

What is Extortion under Maryland Law? Definition of Extortion

Extortion is a crime under Maryland law. The law prohibiting extortion states: A person may not obtain, attempt to obtain, or conspire to obtain money, property, labor, services, or anything of value from another person with the person’s consent, if the consent is induced by wrongful use of actual or threatened: (1) force or violence; (2) economic injury; or (3) destruction, concealment, removal, confiscation, or possession of any immigration or government identification document with intent to harm the immigration status of another person.

Extortion Penalties under Maryland Law

The penalty for extortion in Maryland depends upon the value of the property, labor, or services that are the object of the extortion.

If the value of the property, labor, or services is $500 or more, a person is guilty of a felony and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 10 years or a fine not exceeding $5,000 or both. If the value of the property, labor, or services is less than $500, a person is guilty of the misdemeanor of extortion and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 18 months or a fine not exceeding $500 or both.

Top-Ranked Criminal Defense Lawyer Prince George’s County, MD

Attorney Jonathan Scott Smith offers more than 30 years of courtroom experience to criminal defendants in Maryland.

Mr. Smith’s extensive trial experience — and track record of successful results — has earned him the recognition of his peers and clients:

  • Maryland Super Lawyer.
  • “10.0 Superb” as a litigation attorney by AVVO.
  • “AV-Preeminent™*” Peer Rating by Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory (25 consecutive years).
  • “Client’s Choice Award” by AVVO, based on average client reviews of 5 stars — the highest client review possible.
  • 2012 Top Rated Lawyer by The American Lawyer magazine and Martindale-Hubbell.

These are the highest ratings possible for legal skill, ethical practice, a lawyer’s years in practice, disciplinary history, professional achievements and industry recognition.

Attorney Jonathan Scott Smith has an unparalleled reputation with clients and within the legal community. He handles all types of criminal charges, including extortion.

Criminal Defense Lawyer Howard County, Maryland,

If you face extortion or other criminal charges, or are under investigation for illegal activity, attorney Jonathan Scott Smith will aggressively protect your constitutional rights. Call our office at 410-740-0101, or contact us online, to schedule an appointment. We represent people charged with a crime in Anne Arundel County, Howard County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Frederick County, Prince George’s County and Montgomery County in Maryland.

 

 

Filed Under: Criminal Defense, criminal defense lawyer, criminal lawyer, defense attorney, Extortion Charges Tagged With: ,

Police Assault Case Causes Police Response to Editorial

March 18, 2013 by

Assault on Students at University of Maryland after Basketball

Police assault on students generated a post on the Prince George’s County Police Department (PGPD) blog, in which the police chief characterized a Washington Post editorial as “exaggerated and misleading.”

On March 3, 2010, Prince George’s County police officers were videotaped beating Maryland student John McKenna with batons as McKenna and others celebrated a University of Maryland basketball victory over Duke University. PGPD conducted an investigation and two officers were indicted on first- and second-degree assault charges, as well as misconduct in office offenses. One officer was convicted and served a 30-day home detention sentence. The other officer was acquitted.

Editorial Criticizes Police Handling of Student Assault Case

In its response to the Washington Post editorial, which asserted that police “got away with” beating McKenna, Chief of Police Mark A. Magaw stated on the blog that:

  • What happened to McKenna was wrong.
  • The involved officers were identified, indicted and prosecuted.
  • The PGPD has taken “unprecedented steps” to improve discipline and training oversight.
  • The PGPD has completely overhauled the strategy and training to handle civil disturbances.
  • The PGPD is working in conjunction with the University of Maryland to ensure that “the mistakes of the past” are not repeated.

What is the Definition of Assault?

Maryland separates assault in two degrees: first degree assault, which is a felony; and second degree assault, which is a misdemeanor. Assault in the second degree happens when one person physically injures another. The injuries can be minor or cause physical injury, but not serious or permanent injury.

Second-degree assault also includes causing a reasonable person to fear imminent physical harm. This means that even if you did not physically touch another person but you caused them to have a reasonable fear of being hurt by you, you could potentially be charged with assault.

Battery, which is also considered an assault crime, means unlawfully, offensively touching another person without his or her agreement. In most situations, however, assault does refer to a fight or disagreement that has turned physically violent.

Top-Rated Criminal Defense Attorney Howard County, MD

A Maryland Super Lawyer, attorney Jonathan Scott Smith brings more than 30 years of trial experience to criminal defendants in Maryland. He has built an outstanding reputation with clients and colleagues.

Mr. Smith’s extensive trial experience in assault and other criminal cases — and track record of successful results — has earned him the recognition of his peers and clients:

  • Maryland Super Lawyer.
  • “10.0 Superb” as a litigation attorney by AVVO.
  • “AV-Preeminent™*” Peer Rating by Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory (25 consecutive years).
  • “Client’s Choice Award” by AVVO, based on average client reviews of 5 stars — the highest client review possible.
  • 2012 Top Rated Lawyer by The American Lawyer magazine and Martindale-Hubbell.

These are the highest ratings possible for legal skill, ethical practice, a lawyer’s years in practice, disciplinary history, professional achievements and industry recognition.

Ellicott City, Maryland, Criminal Defense Lawyer

When you need top-ranked criminal defense counsel for assault charges, attorney Jonathan Scott Smith will aggressively fight to protect your constitutional rights. Call our office at 410-740-0101, or contact us online, to schedule an appointment. We represent criminal defendants in Howard County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Frederick County, Prince George’s County, Anne Arundel County and Montgomery County in Maryland.

 

Filed Under: Assault, Criminal Defense, criminal defense lawyer, criminal lawyer, defense attorney Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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