Shooter Sentenced to Life in Prison for Homicide in Back-to-Back Shootings

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A 25-year-old homicide defendant who appeared before Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Jennifer B. Schiffer and was sentenced to life in prison on Oct. 11 for killing Traquarn Lewis and shooting another man in Fells Point.

Reginald Whitaker was found guilty of first-degree murder, firearm possession with a felony conviction, having a handgun on his person, attempted second-degree murder, armed robbery and two counts of firearm use in a felony violent crime.

The judge sentenced Whitaker to life in prison for first-degree murder, a consecutive sentence of 20 years for armed robbery and attempted second-degree murder, 15 consecutive years for firearm use in a felony violent crime and another 20 years for firearm possession with a felony conviction.

The prosecutor said Whitaker went on a crime spree, shooting two people within 45 minutes .He shot Lewis on the 2000 block of Fleet Street on July 3, 2023. Less than 15 minutes later, Whitaker arrived at the intersection of South Wolfe and Gough streets, where he robbed and shot a second victim in the leg and abdomen.

The homicide victim’s family told the judge that the victim was in the wrong place at the wrong time. While the defendant’s family shared their grief and said this wasn’t the person they knew.

In addition to the sentence for the homicide, Whitaker also has a pending case for the non-fatal shooting. He is facing 14 charges, including attempted first and second-degree murder, theft less than $100, firearm possession with a felony convict, carry a handgun on person, two counts of first-degree assault, firearm used in a felony violent crime, armed robbery and robbery.

Whitaker initially asked to discharge his attorney during the hearing, James Sweeting III, due to communication issues, but the judge denied the request, praising Sweeting’s representation.

Sweeting acknowledged their disagreements but described Whitaker as respectful, free-spirited and intelligent.

According to the prosecutor, Whitaker had three prior convictions for robberies, violated his probation and was still out shooting people. It raised concerns for the public if he got out of prison.

Whitaker’s next court day is scheduled on Oct. 25.