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Baltimore Police Set for Cell Phone, Seat Belt Crackdowns

February 10, 2014 by Jonathan Smith

Baltimore Police Set to Enforce New Laws on Cell Phone and Seat Belt Use

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In the wake of the passage of new laws in Maryland limiting the use of cell phones while driving, police have issued a statement indicating that the law will be strictly enforced, reported The Baltimore Sun. The announcement indicated that checkpoints would be set up starting in early October. Police said they will also use the checkpoints to monitor whether motorists are complying with a new law that requires all adult passengers to wear a seat belt. The enforcement is expected to be citywide.

In 2010, Maryland lawmakers passed a bill making it a “secondary” offense to use a handheld device while behind the wheel of a car, meaning that the law could only be enforced if there were other violations of the law. In 2013, the General Assembly upgraded the cell phone offense to a “primary” violation, giving law enforcement officers the authority to stop a motorist who breaks the cell phone law.

Maryland’s seat belt law previously required drivers and front-seat passengers to wear a restraint. The new law, however, makes it a “secondary” offense for an adult to ride in the backseat without a seat belt.

Top-Rated Criminal Defense Attorney in Maryland

Jonathan Scott Smith, a Maryland Super Lawyer, has aggressively protected the rights of criminal defendants in Maryland for more than 30 years. He carries a perfect 10.0 Superb rating as a litigation attorney from AVVO, and has received the Clients’ Choice Award from AVVO, with an average client review of 5 stars (the highest rating possible). He is also widely respected by his colleagues in the legal profession, earning an AV rating under Martindale-Hubbell’s Peer Review Rating System. Smith was also recognized as a 2012 Top Rated Lawyer by The American Lawyer magazine and Martindale-Hubbell.

Ellicott City Criminal Defense Lawyer

For aggressive and experienced criminal defense representation, contact our office by e-mail or call us at 410-740-0101 to schedule an appointment. We represent criminal defendants in Howard County, Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Frederick County, Prince George’s County and Montgomery County in Maryland.

Filed Under: traffic charges

Black Guerrilla Family Member Pleads Guilty

January 29, 2014 by Jonathan Smith

Black Guerrilla Family Lieutenant Cops to Plea on Drug Smuggling Charge

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Based on evidence obtained from a female corrections officer with whom he was involved, a man authorities say was the second in command in the Black Guerrilla Family gang has pleaded guilty to a drug smuggling charge, reported The Baltimore Sun. The man, who joined the gang in 2011, was apparently the cellmate of the BGF’s jail leader. The drug smuggling ring was apparently run from within the state’s correctional system, with the assistance of a number of corrections officers. In April 2013, it was announced that 25 people, including 13 corrections officers, had been charged with racketeering as well as drug and money laundering.

In the case involving the BGF’s number-two man, authorities intercepted a call between the suspect and the corrections officer with whom he was involved on which the suspect discussed using a debit card to obtain money to purchase drugs. When police brought the corrections officer in for questioning, they found that she had kept a ledger for her lover, listing all of his illegal transactions. The corrections officer also pleaded guilty to smuggling controlled substances.

Highly Respected Maryland Criminal Defense Attorney

Attorney Jonathan Scott Smith, a Maryland Super Lawyer, has protected the rights of criminal defendants in Maryland for more than three decades. He is a recipient of the Clients’ Choice Award from AVVO, based on an average client review of 5 stars (the highest rating possible), and has a perfect 10.0 Superb rating as a litigation attorney from AVVO. Attorney Smith has also built an outstanding reputation with his colleagues in the legal profession, earning an AV rating under Martindale-Hubbell’s Peer Review Rating System. Smith was also listed as a 2012 Top Rated Lawyer by The American Lawyer magazine and Martindale-Hubbell.

Criminal Defense Lawyer in Baltimore, MD

Regardless of the charges you face, we will aggressively protect your constitutional rights. Contact us by e-mail or call us at 410-740-0101 to schedule an appointment. We represent criminal defendants in Howard County, Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Frederick County, Prince George’s County and Montgomery County in Maryland.

Filed Under: Criminal Defense

Glen Burnie Man Arrested after Rash of “Smash and Grab” Burglaries

January 14, 2014 by Jonathan Smith

Suspect Detained for Spate of “Smash and Grab” Burglaries

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After a September 20 robbery at Parks Liquors in Deale, police used surveillance video evidence to identify the motor vehicle used in the crime. When they stopped a vehicle matching that description, they located tools in the car that they believe were used in the liquor store robbery as well as a number of similar “smash and grab” burglaries of small businesses throughout Anne Arundel County, reported The Baltimore Sun.

According to authorities, the suspect had a tire iron and used it to break the front-door glass at nine businesses across the county. The first known robbery, at a Starbucks in Severna Park, occurred on July 28. Though the first three break-ins all took place in Severna Park, police believe the suspect then moved to other locations in the county, from Gambrills to Glen Burnie to Edgewater. The suspect, a 54-year-old male, apparently lives in Glen Burnie. Police say that their investigation is not closed and that there may be other unsolved robberies tied to the suspect.

Maryland Criminal Defense Attorney

Maryland Super Lawyer Jonathan Scott Smith has fought for the rights of criminal defendants for more than 30 years. Because of his record and reputation, he has been a multiple recipient of the Clients’ Choice Award from AVVO, based on an average client review of 5 stars (the highest rating possible). He has a perfect 10.0 Superb rating as a litigation attorney from AVVO, and is also respected by his colleagues in the legal profession, who have given him an AV rating under Martindale-Hubbell’s Peer Review Rating System. Smith was also recognized as a 2012 Top Rated Lawyer by The American Lawyer magazine and Martindale-Hubbell.

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

We aggressively protect the constitutional rights of anyone facing criminal charges in Maryland. Contact us by e-mail or call us at 410-740-0101 to schedule an appointment. We represent criminal defendants in Howard County, Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Frederick County, Prince George’s County and Montgomery County in Maryland.

Filed Under: Criminal Defense

Towson Attorney Faces Drug Charges

January 7, 2014 by Jonathan Smith

Baltimore Grand Jury Indicts Lawyer on Drug Conspiracy Charge

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A former public defender and private defense attorney with offices in Towson faces drug-related charges, along with 12 others, after a Baltimore County grand jury returned an indictment in early October, reported The Baltimore Sun. After what authorities termed a “lengthy investigation,” police executed 10 search warrants, seizing a wide range of controlled substances, including heroin, cocaine, marijuana and prescription drugs, such as Hydrocodone, Alprazolam (Xanax), Oxycodone and Suboxone. Officers also seized a number of weapons.

Though police did not provide additional details, sources say that the attorney’s son was also charged. The charges include conspiracy with intent to distribute, as well as possession. The attorney has been a member of the state bar for more than 20 years. The indictment was based on evidence gathered between May and September.

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

Attorney Jonathan Scott Smith, a Maryland Super Lawyer, has fought for the rights of criminal defendants in Maryland for more than 30 years. Because of his record and reputation for effective representation, he has been awarded the Clients’ Choice Award from AVVO, based on an average client review of 5 stars (the highest rating possible). He has a perfect 10.0 Superb rating as a litigation attorney from AVVO, and has also built an outstanding reputation with his colleagues in the legal profession, earning an AV rating under Martindale-Hubbell’s Peer Review Rating System. Smith was also recognized as a 2012 Top Rated Lawyer by The American Lawyer magazine and Martindale-Hubbell.

Baltimore County, Maryland, Criminal Defense Attorney

Filed Under: Criminal Defense

Police Nab Suspect in Glen Burnie Gas Station Shooting

December 30, 2013 by Jonathan Smith

Glen Burnie Man Charged with Attempted Murder, Other Counts

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Authorities in Anne Arundel County arrested a 39-year-old man in early October, charging him with firing twice into a car leaving a Sunoco station on Hospital Drive on September 24, according to The Baltimore Sun. Police say that evidence suggests the shooting was part of a drug deal gone bad. One person was taken to the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center as a result of the altercation.

According to police, information gathered from witnesses led them to a home in the 400 block of Ingram Court. When they executed a search warrant, they found evidence that tied the resident to the Glen Burnie shooting. Police also found a stolen handgun. The suspect faces multiple charges, including two counts of attempted first-degree murder, two counts of attempted second-degree murder, two counts of second-degree assault, two counts of reckless endangerment and a charge of using a handgun during the commission of a violent crime.

Authorities say the suspect is being held at the Jennifer Road Detention Center in Annapolis, with a bond of $5 million in the attempted murder case and $100,000 for the firearms violation.

Top-Rated Maryland Criminal Defense Attorney

Criminal Defense Lawyer in Ellicott City and Columbia, MD

Filed Under: Criminal Defense

Conviction in Double Shooting

December 19, 2013 by Jonathan Smith

North Laurel Man Found Guilty of Two Counts of Attempted Murder

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A jury returned a guilty verdict against a North Laurel man who was charged with two counts of attempted murder in an altercation that took place at a beauty salon in Ellicott City, reported The Baltimore Sun. The 36-year-old man was convicted of first- and second-degree attempted murder for shooting his estranged girlfriend and another person at a nail care and hair salon on July 14, 2012. Both victims survived, though initially in critical condition. The suspect evaded capture for eight months before turning himself in.

In addition to the attempted homicide charges, the defendant was also convicted of violating a protective order, reckless endangerment and two counts of using a firearm in a crime of violence. Authorities confirm that the other injured party was the sister of the man the defendant’s ex-girlfriend was dating.

Ellicott City, MD, Criminal Defense Lawyer

With more than three decades in practice, attorney Jonathan Scott Smith has a long track record of obtaining positive results for people facing criminal charges throughout Maryland. He takes a thorough approach to criminal defense, carefully examining the facts and circumstances of your case and confirming that police followed proper procedures and that your constitutional rights were not violated.

Attorney Smith has built a strong reputation with clients and colleagues, earning honors as a Maryland Super Lawyer and an AV rating under Martindale-Hubbell’s Peer Review Rating System. Recognized as a 2012 Top Rated Lawyer by The American Lawyer magazine and Martindale-Hubbell, he has also received the Clients’ Choice Award from AVVO, based on an average client review of 5 stars (the highest rating possible). He also holds a 10.0 Superb rating as a litigation attorney from AVVO.

Maryland Violent Crimes Defense Lawyer

To learn how we can help protect your rights in a criminal matter, contact our office online or call our office at 410-740-0101 to schedule an appointment. We defend people throughout Howard County, Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Frederick County, Prince George’s County and Montgomery County in Maryland.

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Assault Charge Against Howard County Football Coach Dropped

December 16, 2013 by Jonathan Smith

Coach Faced Assault of Charge after On-Field Altercation

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In the aftermath of an on-field melee between the Mt. Hebron and Centennial football teams during the first quarter of a game on September 21, an assistant coach faced charges filed by the father of a Mt. Hebron quarterback. The father alleged that the defendant violently pushed his son to the ground, causing a “severe fracture” of the player’s right wrist, according to The Baltimore Sun. The assistant coach denied that he engaged in any aggressive behavior, saying that he acted defensively to try to keep a fight from escalating.

According to reports, a fight broke out near the end of the first quarter, as players from both teams started throwing punches. The accused admitted going onto the field in an attempt to break up the fight, but adamantly denied committing an assault.

On December 3, 2013, the assault charges against the coach were dismissed after the Howard County State’s Attorney conducted an investigation and concluded that there was insufficient evidence to prosecute, reported The Baltimore Sun.

Top-Rated Maryland Assault Lawyer

Attorney Jonathan Scott Smith, a Maryland Super Lawyer, has fought for the rights of criminal defendants in Maryland for more than 30 years, including assault charges. Because of his record and reputation for effective representation, he has been awarded the Clients’ Choice Award from AVVO, based on an average client review of 5 stars (the highest rating possible). He has a perfect 10.0 Superb rating as a litigation attorney from AVVO, and has also built an outstanding reputation with his colleagues in the legal profession, earning an AV rating under Martindale-Hubbell’s Peer Review Rating System. Smith was also recognized as a 2012 Top Rated Lawyer by The American Lawyer magazine and Martindale-Hubbell.

Criminal Defense Lawyer in Ellicott City and Columbia, MD

Regardless of the charges you face, we will zealously protect your constitutional rights. Contact us by e-mail or call us at 410-740-0101 to schedule an appointment. We represent criminal defendants in Howard County, Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Frederick County, Prince George’s County and Montgomery County in Maryland.

Filed Under: Assault, Criminal Defense

Drug Possession Charges Filed Against Howard County Man

December 9, 2013 by Jonathan Smith

Savage Man Arrested for Drug Possession

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On September 30, 2013, Howard County Police detectives raided the home of a resident in the 9000 block of Baltimore Street, reported The Baltimore Sun. Acting on an anonymous tip, officers executed a search warrant, which produced extensive evidence to support drug possession charges, including manufacturing, production and distribution of marijuana.

According to police reports, the drug possession charges resulted after Howard County police discovered that the resident had retrofitted a room under the house for the cultivation of marijuana, installing heat insulation, a ventilation system and high-density lighting. The defendant had even employed scented materials to conceal the smell of the plants. Detectives found marijuana plants and seeds, as well as fertilizer and baggies of pot, both in the house and in an adjacent shed. During their search, they also uncovered a loaded handgun as well as other firearms.

The residence had been a licensed child care center, but officials at the state’s Department of Education confirmed that the license was suspended. The Howard County man has been released on bond, but police say the investigation is not closed and that other charges may ensue.

Howard County, MD, Drug Possession Attorney

With more than three decades in practice, attorney Jonathan Scott Smith has a long track record of obtaining positive results for people facing criminal and drug possession charges throughout Maryland. He takes a thorough approach to criminal defense, carefully examining the facts and circumstances of your case, and confirming that police followed proper procedures and your constitutional rights were not violated.

Attorney Smith has built a strong reputation with clients and colleagues, earning honors as a Maryland Super Lawyer and an AV rating under Martindale-Hubbell’s Peer Review Rating System. Recognized as a 2012 Top Rated Lawyer by The American Lawyer magazine and Martindale-Hubbell, he has also received the Clients’ Choice Award from AVVO, based on an average client review of 5 stars (the highest rating possible). He also holds a 10.0 Superb rating as a litigation attorney from AVVO.

Maryland Drug Possession Lawyer

To learn how we can help protect your constitutional rights in a criminal matter, or call us at 410-740-0101 to schedule an appointment. We defend people throughout Howard County, Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Frederick County, Prince George’s County and Montgomery County in Maryland.

Filed Under: Marijuana

Animal Abuse Investigation Launched after Cat Shot with Arrow

September 20, 2013 by jsmith

Animal Abuse Investigation Pending in Anne Arundel

In a bizarre incident, the Anne Arundel County Animal Control office reported that a cat in the Davidsonville area was apparently shot with a bow and arrow on Wednesday, June 12, 2013, according to The Baltimore Sun. The cat, Xena, survived and continues to make progress at a local animal rescue facility.

According to animal control officers, a resident in the 3000 block of Riva Road, discovered that the cat had been shot through the left shoulder with a two-foot long arrow. The citizen unsuccessfully attempted to catch Xena, and called the Animal Control office. Animal Control officers were finally able to trap the cat two days later. After time in the Belair Veterinary Hospital, Xena was moved to the Rude Ranch Animal Rescue facility, where she continues to recuperate.

What is Animal Abuse and Neglect?

Under Maryland law, a person may not: (1) overdrive or overload an animal; (2) deprive an animal of necessary sustenance; (3) inflict unnecessary suffering or pain on an animal; (4) cause, procure, or authorize an act prohibited under item (1), (2), or (3); or (5) if the person has charge or custody of an animal, as owner or otherwise, unnecessarily fail to provide the animal with nutritious food in sufficient quantity, necessary veterinary care, proper drink, air, space, shelter, or protection from the weather.

The crime is a misdemeanor, and the penalty is imprisonment not exceeding 90 days or a fine not exceeding $1,000 or both.

What is Animal Cruelty?

Under Maryland law, a person may not: (1) intentionally mutilate, torture, cruelly beat, or cruelly kill an animal; (2) cause, procure, or authorize an act prohibited under item (1); or (3) except in the case of self-defense, intentionally inflict bodily harm, permanent disability, or death on an animal owned or used by a law enforcement unit.

Animal cruelty is a felony, and on conviction a person is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a fine not exceeding $5,000 or both.

Top-Rated Howard County, MD, Criminal Defense Attorney

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

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.
The National Trial Lawyers: Top 100 Trial Lawyers (by invitation only and limited to the Top 100 Trial Lawyers from each state).
“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.

Ellicott City, Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you face criminal charges of any kind, attorney Jonathan Scott Smith will fight hard to protect your constitutional rights. Contact our firm online or call our office at 410-740-0101 to schedule an appointment. We represent criminal defendants in Howard County, Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Frederick County, Prince Georges County and Montgomery County in Maryland.

Filed Under: Criminal Defense, criminal defense lawyer, criminal lawyer, defense attorney, District Court for Howard County

Howard County DUI Sobriety Checkpoint Nabs Twelve

September 4, 2013 by jsmith

On Friday, June 14, 2013, Howard County police set up a sobriety checkpoint on westbound Route 40 and Governors Run Way in Ellicott City. The sobriety checkpoint, which started late in the evening, extended into early Saturday morning, resulted in 12 arrests, reported The Baltimore Sun.

Police say 998 drivers came through the sobriety checkpoint, and that six were arrested for DUI, or driving under the influence of alcohol. Three more drivers were taken into custody for drug offenses, and three motorists were detained for driving with suspended license.

DUI Check Points Funded by Grants

The DUI sobriety checkpoint, manned by Howard County police and Maryland State troopers, is part of the Checkpoint Strikeforce Campaign, a program funded in part by a grant from the Maryland Highway Safety Office. DUI Sobriety check points, though not legal in some states, have been upheld in Maryland as consistent with the state constitution and the U.S. Constitution, provided they comply with detailed constitutional requirements.

Top-Rated Drunk Driving Lawyer in Howard County, MD

Mr. Smith’s extensive trial experience — and track record of successful results, including DUI cases— 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.
The National Trial Lawyers: Top 100 Trial Lawyers (by invitation only and limited to the Top 100 Trial Lawyers from each state).
“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.

Columbia, Maryland Drunk Driving Defense Attorney

When you need top-rated criminal defense lawyer to fight a DUI charge, including one resulting from a DUI sobriety checkpoint, attorney Jonathan Scott Smith will aggressively fight hard to protect your constitutional rights. Contact our firm online or call our office at 410-740-0101 to schedule an appointment. We represent criminal defendants in Howard County, Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Frederick County, Prince Georges County and Montgomery County, Maryland.