A Message from Your State’s Attorney
Dear Prince Georgians:
Public safety remains my top priority, and my office is committed to being tough on violent crime and holding dangerous offenders accountable. We are working closely with our law enforcement partners to prosecute violent offenders; address repeat criminal behavior and seek meaningful consequences for those who threaten the safety of our community.
When individuals choose to commit acts of violence, carry illegal firearms, or endanger others through reckless and unlawful behavior, we will pursue the strongest charges supported by the law and seek jail time when warranted. Residents deserve to feel safe in their neighborhoods, and we will continue using every legal tool available to remove violent offenders from our streets and protect Prince George’s County.
At the same time, we recently celebrated Second Chance Month, which reflects another important part of our work. While we remain firm in holding individuals accountable, we also recognize that, in appropriate cases, second chances can strengthen public safety and reduce repeat offending.
Through diversion initiatives like our Back on Track program and other court-based alternatives, we provide certain first-time and low-level offenders with the opportunity to take responsibility, avoid a criminal record, and build a path toward becoming productive members of our community. These opportunities are not automatic, they require accountability, effort, and a demonstrated commitment to change.
Our mission remains centered on supporting victims, delivering justice, and ensuring that those who commit violent crimes are held fully accountable, while also promoting fairness and long-term community stability. Through strong partnerships, focused prosecution, and an unwavering commitment to public safety, we will continue working every day to build a safer community for all.
Watch our Second Chance Month here.
Sincerely,
Tara H. Jackson
Prince George's State’s Attorney
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Crime Data
Below is a snapshot of Prince George’s County’s key crime data compared to this time last year*:
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Violent crime is down 7% overall
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Homicides are down 29% (includes domestic violence homicides)
- No homicides in 2026 have been related to domestic violence
- Domestic violence is up 12% overall
- Domestic violence assault with other weapon up 13%
- Domestic violence assault with no weapon up 12%
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Robberies are down 51% overall
- Commercial robberies are down 61%
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Burglaries are down 31% overall
- Commercial burglaries are down 28%
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Carjackings are down 59%
*as of April 29, 2026, via the Countywide and Municipal Data from the Prince George’s County Police Department’s Daily Crime Report
Inaugural Youth Advisory Council Recap
 The Academy of Law and Public Policy Youth Council officially kicked off with an inspiring evening focused on leadership, civic engagement, and the future of the justice system. Young people from across Prince George’s County came together to share their perspectives, engage in meaningful dialogue, and explore pathways into law and public service.
This initiative is designed to empower the next generation with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to lead and create lasting impact in their communities. Thank you to everyone who made this moment possible and to the students whose voices continue to shape the future of public policy.
Stay connected for more updates and opportunities through the Academy of Law and Public Policy.
Reckless Driving & Car Meet-Up PSA
 Reckless driving and car meetups continue to pose a serious threat to safety across Prince George’s County. As more drivers are out on the roads, these incidents can have greater impact. We urge all residents to prioritize safe and responsible driving. Speeding, impaired driving, and other dangerous driving behavior puts everyone at risk: drivers, passengers, and bystanders alike. If you see dangerous driving or illegal gatherings, report it. If you’re behind the wheel, slow down and stay focused.
On Sunday, April 19, the Office of the State’s Attorney had the honor of hosting the 36th Maryland Statewide Memorial Service for Crime Victims and Their Families for the Southern Region in observance of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week.
Together, we remembered and uplifted the lives of those lost to homicide, vehicular manslaughter, and more across Prince George’s, Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s Counties. Families, loved ones, leaders and community members gathered in unity, healing, and remembrance.
Justice Data Dashboard
 To strengthen transparency and build public trust, the Office of the State’s Attorney launched its first-ever Justice Data Dashboard. This user-friendly tool provides residents with accessible insights into prosecution trends, case outcomes, and the work of our office, ensuring our community stays informed and engaged with how justice is being administered in Prince George’s County.
Back on Track Program
The Office of the State’s Attorney’s Back on Track Program is proud to celebrate four recent graduates who have begun their careers with Southern Management, a valued community partner committed to creating pathways to long-term success. Through Southern Management’s On-the-Job Training Program, these graduates are building essential soft skills and hands-on technical experience as they work toward becoming Apartment Maintenance Service Technicians. Their achievements reflect the power of partnership in helping residents rebuild, grow, and move forward.
Notable Indictments
State v. Jamarri Ruffin/State v. Abdourahmane Sylla
Jamarri Ruffin, Abdourahmane Sylla, and two male juveniles have been indicted on charges including first- and second-degree murder, first-degree assault, and the use of a firearm in the commission of a violent felony, related to the murder of 14-year-old Carltin Bayong in Greenbelt in October 2025. All four defendants have been held without bond.
State v. Gerald Briscoe/State v. Sierra Alston/State v. Timothy Green
Former Prince George’s County police officers, Gerald Briscoe and Sierra Alston, and current Prince George’s County police officer, Timothy Green, have been charged with misconduct in office and related offenses.
Briscoe has been charged with four counts of misconduct in office and one count of conspiracy to commit misconduct in office. Alston has been charged with one count of misconduct in office and four counts of conspiracy to commit misconduct in office. Green has been charged with two counts of misconduct in office and one count of conspiracy to commit misconduct in office.
State v. Jose Merlos-Majano /State v. Alan Josai Garcia-Padilla /State v. William Cuellar Gutierrez
Jose Merlos-Majano, Alan Josai Garcia-Padilla, William Cuellar Gutierrez, and a 17-year-old have been indicted on charges including first-degree murder, use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, and participation in a criminal organization related to the murder of 14-year-old Jefferson Amaya-Ayala, whose body was discovered in a park in Prince George’s County in November 2025.
Notable Convictions
State v. Rashawn Williams
Rashawn Williams was convicted of multiple firearm offenses and obstructing and hindering a police officer. Sentencing is scheduled for July 17, 2026.
Michael Collins has been convicted of one count of grossly negligent manslaughter by motor vehicle and one count of auto theft related to the death of Shaunte Canty. Collins faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for August 28, 2026.
Daniel Jackson has been convicted of first-degree murder, use of a firearm in the commission of a crime of violence, and two counts of handgun on a person related to the murder of Deon Damien Thomas. Jackson faces life in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for July 17, 2026.
Eric King has been convicted of first-degree murder and home invasion in the killing of Diamond Abney. King faces life in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for June 26, 2026.
Harry Lindsey has been convicted of first-degree murder, firearm use and illegal possession, and two counts of second-degree escape in the murder of Sharita Cristwell. Lindsey faces life in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for July 24, 2026.
State v. Joshua Hassan Marley Wilson
Joshua Hassan Marley Wilson has been convicted of first-degree murder, first-degree assault, two counts of use of a firearm in the commission of a crime of violence, and related charges in the murder of Anthony Lorenzo Ward III. Wilson faces a maximum sentence of life in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for May 29, 2026.
LaTyre Moore has pled guilty to motor vehicle manslaughter related to the death of 31-year-old Erika Boykin. Moore initially identified herself as the passenger of the vehicle, but the investigation later revealed she was the driver. She faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for August 24, 2026.
Cleophus Canton has been convicted on nine counts, including multiple counts of sexual abuse of a minor, rape, and second-degree sex offense. The convictions stem from abuse committed against multiple victims over a period spanning more than a decade. Canton faces 144 to 190 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for May 7, 2026.
State v. Damarion Jones
Damarion Jones has been convicted of first-degree murder and use of a firearm in the commission of a crime of violence in the fatal shooting of 21-year-old J’len Livingston. Jones faces a maximum of life in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for May 8, 2026.
Jonathan Monge has been convicted of one count of sexual abuse of a minor and two counts of second-degree rape. Sentencing is scheduled for July 10, 2026.
State v. Barry Merritt/State v. Sadiq Holloway
Barry Merritt has been convicted of second-degree murder, first-degree assault, and two counts of use of a firearm in the commission of a felony or crime of violence related to the murder of Kre’sean Hoover Gaskins. Merritt faces a maximum penalty of 60 years in prison.
Co-defendant Sadiq Holloway has been convicted of first-degree assault and two counts of use of a firearm in the commission of a felony or crime of violence. Holloway faces a maximum penalty of 45 years in prison.
Both defendants will be sentenced on June 4, 2026.
Notable Sentencings
Andre Moore has been sentenced to life in prison after being convicted of first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder in the death of Sejon Reed in September 2021.
Akil Ings has been sentenced to 66 years in prison, suspending all but 21 years, after being convicted of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, possession of a firearm in a drug trafficking crime, possession of a firearm after a prior conviction for a crime of violence, and motor vehicle theft.
Other Notable Cases
Sozay Coggs has been convicted of second-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder in the first-degree, and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony or violent crime. Coggs has been sentenced to life in prison, suspending all but 65 years. Coggs’ conviction was secured in a retrial after the first trial resulted in a mistrial.
The case against Dartrell Bryant, who was charged with murder, firearm use in the commission of a violent crime, and illegal firearm possession related to the death of Jawaun Jackson in September 2024, has ended in a mistrial after the jury was unable to reach a unanimous verdict.
Upcoming Cases
Michael Hurley was charged with murder, firearm use in the commission of a violent crime, firearm possession during a crime of violence or felony, illegal firearm possession, handgun on a person, and altering physical evidence in the death of Isiah Hunter in March 2025. Hurley's trial is set to begin May 4, 2026.
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📺State’s Attorney Jackson joined WJLA in February to discuss immigration enforcement operation in the country and the impact ICE operations have on prosecuting criminals in our community.
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📺State’s Attorney Jackson joined Fox 5 DC in February to discuss our End of Year Report and the launch of the first Justice Data Dashboard, as well as efforts to address the car meetups taking place in Prince George’s County and neighboring jurisdictions.
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📺State’s Attorney Jackson joined Baltimore City State’s Attorney Ivan Bates, Montgomery County State’s Attorney John McCarthy, and Anne Arundel County State’s Attorney Ann Colt Leitess on Fox 45 Baltimore to discuss their opposition of the Youth Reform Care Act legislation.
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📺State’s Attorney Jackson joined WJLA in March to discuss the proposed gun legislation, a new truancy initiative, and the launch of the Justice Data Dashboard.
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📺State’s Attorney Jackson hosted a press conference to discuss a conviction in the murder of Sharita Cristwell.
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📺State’s Attorney Jackson hosted a press conference to discuss an update in the murder of Stanley Hutchinson III at the Addison Road Metro Station.
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📺State’s Attorney Jackson hosted a press conference to discuss an update in the road rage murder of Darian Ragland.
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Redeemer Church of Christ
State’s Attorney Jackson was honored to visit join Pastor Kobby Sarpong and the congregation of Redeemer Church of Christ. Special thanks to Pastor Sarpong and his faithful members for the warm welcome and for the opportunity to witness a ministry grounded in love, redemption, and faith.
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Smoothies & Safety with the Bowie Police Department at Pure Green
State’s Attorney Jackson joined officers and owner Bill Murray to connect with residents, share resources, and talk about keeping our neighborhoods safe. Events like this show the power of community and law enforcement working together!
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Vehicle Theft Prevention Fair
The Office of the State’s Attorney, in collaboration with the City of District Heights Police Department, Prince George’s County Police Department, and the Prince George’s County Office of the Sheriff, hosted a community forum focused on vehicle theft prevention on Saturday, April 18. Residents showed up, shared their concerns, and left with tools and tips to better protect their vehicles including free car security kits.
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Antioch Baptist Church Expungement Fair
The Office of the State’s Attorney partnered with Antioch Baptist Church of Clinton to host an expungement fair to help Prince George’s County residents move forward with new opportunities. Special thanks to Community Legal Services and all of our partners.
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35th Annual Red Dress Ball
State's Attorney Jackson had the pleasure of attending the Prince George’s County Caribbean Council’s 35th Annual Red Dress Ball, a beautiful evening centered on culture, community, and service. The Caribbean community continues to play an essential role in shaping the spirit and strength of Prince George’s County, and it was inspiring to be surrounded by so many individuals committed to uplifting one another and giving back.
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County Council’s Domestic Violence Work Group
State's Attorney Jackson attended the County Council’s Domestic Violence Work Group to continue advancing efforts to prevent domestic violence, support victims, and hold offenders accountable in Prince George's County. We are grateful to our law enforcement partners, advocates, and service providers who are leading this work every day. Watch the full discussion here.
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Greater 202 Coalition
State's Attorney Jackson attended the Greater 202 Coalition meeting hosted by State Senator Joanne Benson where she discussed the growing threat of scams targeting our residents, the need for a juvenile justice system that holds young people accountable while creating real pathways forward, and the importance of clearly distinguishing local law enforcement’s commitment to our community from the federal presence in our County.
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Clergy in the Courthouse
State's Attorney Jackson hosted Clergy in the Courthouse, bringing together clergy, pastors, and community members for a meaningful conversation on partnership, public safety, and strengthening our communities. It was powerful to connect with faith leaders and community voices committed to making a difference across Prince George’s County.
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Prince George’s Chamber of Commerce & Women in Business Committee
State's Attorney Jackson was honored to receive the Distinguished Service Award from the Prince George’s Chamber of Commerce & Women in Business Committee. Special thanks to the Chamber and congratulations to the other honorees, Wanda Durant and Deneen Richmond, for making a real impact across our community!
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Prince George’s Muslim Council Iftar Dinner
State's Attorney Jackson was honored to attend the Prince George’s Muslim Council’s Annual Iftar Dinner. Iftar is a beautiful moment of reflection, community, and togetherness, reminding us of the power of unity and mutual respect. Special thanks to the Muslim Council for their continued commitment to strengthening connections across our community.
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