A Message from Your State’s Attorney
Dear Prince Georgians:
As summer quickly approaches, we remain vigilant about the public safety challenges that can arise during the warmer months, including the potential for increased crime and violence. I encourage residents to stay aware of their surroundings, secure their homes and vehicles, and promptly report suspicious activity to law enforcement. By working together and looking out for one another, we can help keep our neighborhoods stay safe.
During the summer months, I am strongly asking parents and guardians to ensure you know where your children are, who they are with, and ensure they are appropriately supervised, especially during late evening hours and at large gatherings. Parents play the most critical role in helping young people stay safe and avoid situations that can quickly become dangerous.
While I am happy to report that violent crime is down compared to this time last year, we know that we still have a lot of work to do. Our police departments are closely monitoring activity in neighboring jurisdictions, including incidents connected to large youth gatherings. We know that some of our young people have been involved in these activities, and we remain committed to doing everything we can to keep our communities safe this summer.
The Department of Parks and Recreation offers a variety of programs and resources for youth and families during the summer, and I encourage residents to take advantage of these opportunities. In addition, my office is launching the RISE Summer Camp Initiative this summer, serving as an important first step in our broader truancy program that focuses on keeping students connected to school, supported by their communities, and on a path toward success.
Our goal is for residents to remain engaged, stay informed, and continue working together to support our young people and strengthen our communities. Through strong community partnerships, proactive prevention efforts, and continued engagement, we will make this a safe and enjoyable summer for all residents in Prince George’s County.
Sincerely,
Tara H. Jackson
Prince George's County 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*:
- Violent crime is down 8% overall
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Homicides are down 42% (includes domestic violence homicides)
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Domestic violence is up 13% overall
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Domestic violence non-fatal shootings trending the same at 0%
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Domestic violence assault with other weapon up 6%
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Domestic violence assault with no weapon up 14%
- Robberies are down 50% overall
- Commercial robberies are down 64%
- Carjackings are down 56%
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Burglaries are down 33% overall
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Commercial burglaries are down 37%
*as of June 7, 2026, via the Countywide and Municipal Data from the Prince George’s County Police Department’s Daily Crime Report
Conviction and Sentencing Integrity Unit Update
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The Office of the State’s Attorney’s Conviction and Sentencing Integrity Unit has formalized a partnership with the Mid-Atlantic Innocence Project. Through this partnership, claims of actual innocence are referred for independent screening and investigation by subject matter experts. Stay tuned for more details about this partnership! |
A Day in Justice at Gaywood Elementary School
 State’s Attorney Jackson recently participated in Gaywood Elementary School’s Career Day. More than 200 students learned about the justice system, the important roles people play inside a courtroom, and how positive choices can help build safer communities.
Using the “A Day in Justice” booklet, students explored what it means to serve as a prosecutor, judge, defense attorney, and other key members of the justice system, while also discussing fairness, responsibility, and leadership.
Special thanks to Principal Damien Goins and the Gaywood Elementary School team for welcoming us and helping inspire the next generation of leaders in Prince George’s County.
Public Safety Community Meeting
Join State’s Attorney Jackson and Senator Alonzo Washington for a Public Safety Community Meeting to discuss public safety and crime initiatives.
📅Tuesday, June 9th
🕙10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
📍Sarvis Cafe • 5711 Sarvis Avenue, Unit 101 • Riverdale, MD 20737
Justice Data Dashboard
 The Justice Data Dashboard gives residents a clearer view of how justice is being administered in Prince George’s County by providing accessible information on prosecution trends, case outcomes, and other key performance measures.
This month, the dashboard was expanded to include 2026 homicide disposition data along with additional updates that enhance the depth and scope of available information. As new data becomes available, the dashboard will continue to evolve as a trusted resource for residents seeking greater transparency and insight into the work being done to keep our communities safe.
Back on Track Graduation
The Office of the State’s Attorney’s Back on Track proudly celebrated the graduation of eight participants from the Back on Track Program, a problem-solving court initiative focused on accountability, personal growth, and long-term success. Over the course of the rigorous program, participants committed themselves to education, workforce development, community service, and leadership training while working to build a stronger future for themselves and their families.
These graduates demonstrated persistence, accountability, and a commitment to change throughout their journey. Their accomplishment represents not only the successful completion of the program, but also a meaningful step toward new opportunities and a fresh start. The Back on Track program also recognizes the more than 15 active participants who continue to work toward completing the program and building brighter futures for themselves and their communities.
Notable Convictions
State v. Davon Wider
Davon Wider has been convicted of armed robbery, use of a firearm in the commission of a crime of violence, illegal possession of a firearm by a prohibited person under the age of 21, carrying a handgun, and two counts of conspiracy to commit armed robbery. He faces a maximum of 37 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for August 21, 2026.
State v. Kevin Smith
Kevin Smith has been convicted of sexual abuse of a minor and sex offense in the third degree. He faces a maximum penalty of # years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for August 28, 2026.
State v. Erik Alfaro
Erik Alfaro has been convicted of second-degree escape. He faces 3 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for July 17, 2026.
State v. Tomistea Scott
Tomistea Scott has been convicted of first and second-degree assault. She faces a maximum of 35 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for August 14, 2026.
State v. Larry Naylor
Larry Naylor has pled guilty to one count of grossly negligent manslaughter by motor vehicle. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for October 2, 2026.
State v. Harry Dominique
Harry Lindsey has been convicted of first-degree murder, firearm use and illegal possession, and escape. He faces a maximum penalty of # years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for July 24, 2026.
State v. Rashawn Williams
Rashawn Williams has been convicted of multiple firearm offenses and obstructing and hindering a police officer. He faces a maximum penalty of 32 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for July 17, 2026.
State v. Michael Holly
Michael Holly has been convicted of murder, firearm use in the commission of a violent crime, firearm possession during a crime of violence or felony, illegal firearm possession, and handgun on a person. Sentencing is scheduled for August 7, 2026.
Notable Sentencings
State v. Aaron Jefferson
Aaron Jefferson has been sentenced to 40 years in prison, suspending all but 30 years, after being convicted of second-degree murder and use of a handgun in the commission of a felony or violent crime in the June 2025 murder of 31-year-old Dequan Clinkscale in Landover.
State v. Alfonzo Brown
Alfonzo Brown has been sentenced to 50 years in prison, suspending all but 35 years, after being convicted of attempted second-degree murder and commission use of a firearm in a crime of violence. In January 2025, Brown drove from South Carolina to commit this crime, shooting 3 of his family members.
State v. Damarion Jones
Damarion Jones has been sentenced to life in prison plus 20 years, suspending all but 65 years, after being convicted of first-degree murder and use of a firearm in the commission of a crime of violence in the murder of 21-year-old J’len Livingston in July 2025.
State v. Christopher Pavon
Christopher Pavon has been sentenced to 11 years in prison, with all but 5 years suspended, after being convicted of his 4th driving under the influence offense, fleeing and eluding, and related traffic offenses.
State v. Cleophus Canton
Cleophus Canton was sentenced to 165 years in prison for nine counts, including multiple counts of sexual abuse of a minor, rape, and second-degree sex offense, stemming from abuse against multiple victims over more than a decade.
State v. Erick Pineda
Erick Pineda was sentenced to 30 years in prison, the maximum sentence allowed, for voluntary manslaughter and use of a firearm in the commission of a crime of violence in connection with the May 2024 murder of 20-year-old Kevin Moscoso.
Other Notable Cases
State v. Jamaal Alexis
Following a retrial, 39-year-old Jamaal Alexis has been acquitted of second-degree murder related to the 2006 murder of 36-year-old Raymond Brown.
Upcoming Cases
State v. Terrelle Bailey
Terrelle Bailey was charged with murder and firearm use in the commission of a violent crime related to the death of Cornelius McDonald in November 2025. Bailey’s trial is set to begin August 24, 2026.
📺State’s Attorney Jackson joined Fox 5 DC’s Zip Trip at Bowie-Whitemarsh Park to connect with residents, meet our local sports teams, and see so many families out enjoying the warm weather together.
→ Watch here.
📺State’s Attorney Jackson hosted a press conference to discuss an update in the carjacking and shooting spree in Greenbelt.
→ Watch here.
📺State’s Attorney Jackson hosted a press conference following the sentencing of Cleophus Canton, who was previously convicted of sexual abuse against a minor, rape, and second-degree sex offense.
→ Watch here.
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Bowie State University National Alumni Association’s Black and Gold Scholarship Gala
State’s Attorney Jackson attended the Bowie State University National Alumni Association for their inaugural Black and Gold Scholarship Gala. As the oldest HBCU in Maryland and one of the oldest in the nation, Bowie State University continues to shape generations of leaders. It was inspiring to see so many alumni and supporters investing in the future and helping ensure the next generation of students has every opportunity to succeed.
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Fraternal Order of Police Memorial Ceremony
State’s Attorney Jackson attended the Fraternal Order of Police Prince George’s County Lodge 89 and Prince George’s County Police Department’s Command Officers Association ceremony honoring the brave men and women of law enforcement who gave their lives in service.
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Teacher Appreciation Week
State’s Attorney Jackson visited Scotchtown Hills Elementary School to celebrate the incredible educators who make a difference in the lives of our young people every day. It was an honor to recognize Principal Prevost, who has served Scotchtown Hills Elementary since the school first opened more than 30 years ago.
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City of Bowie Police Department’s Citizens Police Academy Session XIII
The Office of the State’s Attorney attended Bowie’s Citizens Police Academy Session XIII. Building and maintaining safe communities takes all of us working together, including law enforcement, prosecutors, and residents committed to understanding the process, staying informed, and supporting one another.
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Prince George’s Community College Graduation
State’s Attorney Jackson celebrated the graduates and families at Prince George’s Community College’s graduation brunch. It was especially inspiring to meet the distinguished graduates on this well-earned achievement.
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The Sanctuary at Kingdom Square
State’s Attorney Jackson visited The Sanctuary at Kingdom Square. Special thanks to Pastor and First Lady Maclin for the invitation to worship.
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Just Mercy Discussion at Eleanor Roosevelt High School
The Office of the State’s Attorney’s Chief of our Conviction & Sentencing Integrity Unit, Sadia Noah-Hope, and members of our team visited Mr. Beer’s class at Eleanor Roosevelt High School to engage students in a thoughtful discussion on criminal justice and the themes explored in Just Mercy.
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Zion Church
State’s Attorney Jackson visited Zion Church. Special thanks to Pastor Keith Battle for the invitation to worship.
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District Court vs. Circuit Court: What is the Difference?
The District Court handles nearly all misdemeanor offenses in Prince George’s County. This includes a wide range of offenses such as drug-related crimes, burglary, theft, trespassing, assault, and incarcerable traffic violations. There are no juries in District Court as cases are only heard and decided by a judge. District Court cases can be civil or criminal.
The Circuit Court handles major civil and criminal cases, along with juvenile cases and family matters, such as divorce. The Circuit Court can also hear, under certain circumstances, civil or criminal cases from the District Court, in which one of the parties has requested a jury trial.
Stay tuned each month as we spotlight more about our office and provide important information and updates across the criminal justice system.
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