50-Year-Old Homicide Defendant Rejects Plea Offer

By Alyssia Davis [former] - October 4, 2021
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Shooting | Suspects | Victims |

A Baltimore resident rejected a plea offer given Oct. 4 before Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Melissa M. Phinn.

Andre Preston, 50, is charged with first-degree murder, use of a firearm in a violent crime, and possession of a firearm with a felony conviction in connection to an incident on May 12. 

Judge Phinn listened as the prosecution presented a plea of life for first-degree murder, and 20 years concurrent for use of a firearm in a violent crime. 

Preston and his defense attorney, John Cox, rejected the plea. In addition, Preston decided to maintain his Hick’s date, which is his right to be tried within 180 days of his first court appearance. 

According to the Baltimore Sun, police officers were called to the 3000 block of Normount Court for reports of gunfire in May. When they arrived, police found a man lying on the ground with gunshot wounds to his neck, legs, and chest. 

The victim was taken to Shock Trauma Hospital, where he later died. The victim was later identified as 30-year-old Gary Wilson. 

Preston’s trial is scheduled for April 4, 2022.