2020 Double Murderer Found Guilty, Criminally Responsible

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At the end of his bench trial on June 9, Dandre Woods-Bethel, 29, testified about his history of mental illness in an unsuccessful attempt to prove himself not criminally responsible for the double murder of two women in 2020. Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Paul E. Alpert presided over the hearing.

Represented by Maureen O’Leary, Woods-Bethel testified that he suffered from auditory hallucinations since the age of nine — voices that talked to him, echoed others’ thoughts, and controlled his body. He claimed to be a “deity summoner” and said supernatural beings influenced his actions. Woods-Bethel detailed a history of hospitalizations, long-term marijuana use and paranoia. On the day of the shooting, Woods-Bethel said he feared for his family’s safety and armed himself after hearing threatening voices.

Following hia testimony, Judge Alpert reached a guilty verdict for the defendant’s two counts of first-degree murder, five counts of felony firearm use and one count each of attempted first-degree murder and having a handgun on his person in connection to a deadly shooting that occurred on Sept. 2020. The shooting, which occurred in the 2800 block of Clifton Park Terrace, claimed the lives of Julie Rice, 46, and Michelle Green, 23.

Following the verdict, O’Leary attempted to argue Woods-Bethel was not criminally responsible for his actions. Woods-Bethel argued he acted out of fear for his family and claimed that he was controlled by deviant entities.

Though Judge Alpert acknowledged evidence of paranoia, he emphasized that perceived danger does not eliminate intent or justify the killings. He ultimately found the shootings were intentional and proclaimed that Woods-Bethel was criminally responsible.

Sentencing is scheduled for Aug. 25.