A Message from Your State’s Attorney
Dear Prince Georgians:
It's been over 100 days since I was appointed your State's Attorney, and I am proud to share that crime is down in Prince George’s County:
- Homicides are down 36%
- Robberies are down 48% overall
- Commercials are down 59%
- Residentials/Homes are down 19%
- Residents are down 40%
- Carjackings are down 57%*
That’s real progress, and it’s a testament to the dedication of our law enforcement partners, our attorneys and staff, as well as the support of our community. We will continue to move in the right direction by protecting victims, strengthening accountability, and preventing violence before it starts.
During my first few months in office, I’ve met with residents, law enforcement partners, business and faith leaders, elected officials, and community organizations to better understand the issues affecting the safety of our County. You’ve shared your experiences, your concerns, and your hopes for safer neighborhoods, and these conversations have shaped a strategic vision that puts prevention, accountability, and collaboration at the heart of a fair justice system.
Based on these discussions and my review of our office operations, I have identified key priorities that will guide our work in the months ahead - work that will be carried out with fairness not only to victims, but also to the accused.
-
Violent Crime: While overall crime and violence are down, we know that acts of violence continue to negatively impact our community. These crimes also shape the perception of who we are as a community, influencing how residents and visitors experience our County. We will continue to aggressively prosecute violent crime.
-
Gun Violence: People are using handguns to victimize members of our community. Too often, we see offenders who have already been convicted of a gun charge possessing guns again to commit violence. My office is committed to holding these repeat gun offenders accountable through swift prosecutions that seek enhanced penalties where the law allows. I am sending a clear message: illegal gun possession and repeat gun crimes will not be tolerated.
-
Youth Accountability: Our youth are our future. Most of our young people are doing the right thing, and where possible our office will be involved in educating and celebrating those who make positive choices every day. Unfortunately, there are some young people who continue to engage in reckless and violent conduct without regard to the harm that they cause others. As a parent, I believe that accountability is a form of love. Children who understand that actions have consequences are far more likely to be contributing members of our community. My office will make every effort to rehabilitate our youth by stressing accountability when a crime is committed. Although that accountability will take different forms depending on the nature of the crime, violence will not be tolerated.
-
Business Crimes: Crimes like retail theft, burglary, and vandalism do more than damage property - they victimize hardworking business and erode the stability of our neighborhoods. Thriving businesses are essential to thriving communities. Having served as both Acting County Executive and Chief Administrative Officer, I know that businesses choose to invest and grow in communities where they feel safe and where they know their operations will thrive. Safer communities attract new businesses, create jobs, and strengthen the quality of life for our residents. I‘m committed to continuing to meet with our business community to hear their concerns and evaluate how we can protect businesses.
-
Financial Scams: Financial crimes often target the most vulnerable among us and these crimes are becoming more sophisticated. Many of these calls and messages now look and sound legitimate, often appearing to come from trusted institutions: your bank, a government agency, even your utility company. I am fighting for these victims by raising awareness, prosecuting offenders, and exploring stronger penalties for those who exploit vulnerable residents, such as our seniors.
-
Accountability (Data): As State’s Attorney, I believe that the public has a right to know how justice is being administered – who is being charged, for what crimes, and the results. That is why it is important to me that I lead with transparency by sharing data. We must be willing to hold ourselves accountable. Building trust means not only prosecuting cases fairly but also making sure our community understands the process and has confidence in it.
Each of these priorities reflects the philosophy that has guided my career: do the right thing, protect communities, and serve with integrity. Together, we will continue to build a County where all of our residents are safe.
Thank you for your continued trust and support.
Sincerely,
Tara H. Jackson
State’s Attorney for Prince George’s County
*as of November 3, 2025
 |
Supporting Federal Workers & Families During the Shutdown
 Prince George’s County is home to thousands of dedicated federal employees and contractors. To support residents impacted by federal job loss or furlough, our office has launched a Federal Workers Job Loss Resource Hub, connecting families to crisis & safety resources, mental health services, and community assistance.
🔗 Visit the Resource Hub: sao.mypgc.us/fedgovshutdown
Notable Convictions
State vs. Reginald English
Reginald English has been convicted of first-degree murder. English faces a maximum of life in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for November 12, 2025.
State vs. Kevin Derr
Kevin Derr has been convicted of first-degree murder, first degree assault, crime of violence in the presence of a minor, and unauthorized removal of a motor vehicle. Derr faces life without the possibility of parole. Sentencing is scheduled for November 13, 2025.
State vs. Raymond Thompson
Raymond Thompson has been convicted of first-degree murder, use of a handgun in the commission of a violent crime, and wear and carry of a dangerous weapon with intent to injure. Thompson faces a maximum of life in prison without the possibility of parole. Sentencing is scheduled for November 20, 2025.
State vs. Malik Justin Watson
Malik Justin Watson has been convicted of murder and 2 counts of firearm use. Watson is facing a maximum sentence of life plus 20 years. Sentencing is scheduled for December 5, 2025.
State vs. Freddy Monterroso Perez
Freddy Monterroso Perez has been convicted of sexual abuse of a minor and two counts of third-degree sexual offense. Perez faces a maximum sentence of 45 years. Sentencing is scheduled for December 12, 2025.
State vs. Rishaud Dickens
Rishaud Dickens was convicted of four counts of first-degree child abuse. Dickens faces a maximum of 100 years in prison. Co-defendant, 32-year-old Tierra Kelly, pleaded guilty to 11 counts of child neglect and faces a maximum of 55 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for January 16, 2026.
State vs. Erick Alexander Pineda
Erick Alexander Pineda has been convicted of voluntary manslaughter, firearm use during the commission of a felony, and wear/carry/transport a loaded handgun. Pineda faces a total of 35 years. Sentencing is scheduled for March 12, 2026.
Sentencings
State vs. Harold Landon III
Harold Landon III has been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole after being convicted of first-degree murder in the death of Mariame Toure Sylla.
State vs. Christopher Jamar Jenkins
Christopher Jamar Jenkins has been sentenced to 80 years in prison after being convicted of two counts of first-degree murder on May 16, 2025, in the shooting death of 23-year-old Xavier Matthews and 26-year-old Karon Moore. Jenkins was also convicted of conspiracy armed robbery, one count of firearm use in a violent crime, one count of possession of a handgun by a prohibited person.
State vs. Richard Bennaugh
Richard Bennaugh has been sentenced to 50 years in prison after being convicted of second-degree murder in the shooting death of 27-year-old Dominique Scott Hayes.
State vs. Wilson Chavis
Wilson Chavis has been sentenced to 60 years in prison, suspending all but 25 years after being convicted of second-degree murder in the shooting death of 30-year-old Ronald Banks.
State vs. Raymond C. Terry III
Raymond C. Terry III has been sentenced to 50 years in prison after pleading guilty to first-degree murder and use of a firearm in the commission of a crime of violence in the shooting death of 26-year-old Vincent Fisher III.
Other Notable Cases
State vs. Rakeem Gilgeours
Rakeem Gilgeours has been convicted of first-degree assault, use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, and illegal possession of a firearm. Gilgeours was found not guilty of murder and attempted murder. He faces a maximum of 60 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for November 19, 2025.
State vs. Amir Johnson
Amir Johnson has been found not guilty on 7 counts of sexual abuse against a minor. The jury was unable to reach a verdict on one count of sexual abuse of a minor, resulting in a mistrial. The State will reevaluate the sole count that resulted in a mistrial.
-
📺State’s Attorney Jackson on FOX 5 DC: State's Attorney Jackson shared updates on public safety initiatives and community engagement efforts.
→Watch here.
-
📺State’s Attorney Jackson on ABC 7 News: State's Attorney Jackson reflected on her first 100 days in office and discussed her priorities for the year ahead.
→Watch here.
-
📺State’s Attorney Jackson on FOX 5 DC: State's Attorney Jackson discussed Domestic Violence Awareness Month, juvenile crimes, and repeat gun offenders.
→Watch here.
-
📺State’s Attorney Jackson on ABC 7 News: State’s Attorney Jackson discusses the Second Look Act and safety tips for residents during traffic stops.
→Watch here.
Veterans in the Courthouse
 Are you a Prince George's County Veteran? Join us at Veterans in the Courthouse and meet State's Attorney Jackson! This event will feature a special look inside the courthouse and offer resources to help you navigate the legal system.
📅 Wednesday, November 12, 2025
🕛 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 Prince George's County Courthouse Cafeteria - 2nd Floor
Public Safety and Business Roundtable
The Office of the State's Attorney hosted our inaugural Public Safety and Business Roundtable at MGM National Harbor, bringing together law enforcement, business leaders, nonprofits, and community partners.
|
|
 |
 |
|
30th Anniversary of the Million Man March
State's Attorney Jackson was happy to join Councilman Calvin Hawkins, M-NCPPC Chairman Darryl Barnes, other elected officials, leaders, and residents to reflect on the paths forward for Black American men on the 30th anniversary of the historic Million Man March.
|
Latino Business Mixer at La Casita Pupuseria hosted by Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Prince George's County
Entrepreneurs, community leaders, and small business owners are what makes Prince George’s County thrive. A special thank you to Dr. Jennifer Rios, President of the Hispanic Chamber, and Samantha Howard for your leadership and partnership.
|
|
 |
 |
|
Public Safety Town Hall at Oxon Hill Village Apartments
The Office the State's Attorney hosted a Public Safety Town Hall at Oxon Hill Village Apartments in partnership with Southern Management Companies and our law enforcement partners.
|
Bladensburg Annual Day Parade
SAO team had an incredible day attending the Town of Bladensburg Parade. Thank you to all the organizers, participants, and community members who made this celebration such a success!
|
|
 |
|
