Baltimore Man Accused of Shooting Himself Begins Bench Trial

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A bench trial began before Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Kimberly McBride. on Jan. 13 a Baltimore was accused of shooting himself under mysterious circumstances

James Stackhouse, 38, is charged with firing and discharging of any gun, pistol and firearm, having a handgun on his person, firearm possession with a felony conviction and illegal possession of ammunition in connection to a July 19,2024 incident. 

During opening statements, the prosecution said Stackhouse walked down the street with a gun and somehow shot himself which he allegedly admitted to police officers, though the gun was not recovered. 

Stackhouse discarded the gun, the prosecutor said, emphasizing that this was a simple case.

Stackhouse’s defense attorney, Andre Mahasa, argued that the lack of evidence, including the absence of the firearm, expert testimony, or medical records proving that Stackhouse shot himself, worked in his client’s favor.

Mahasa also contended that Stackhouse’s alleged admission was made under duress, suggesting his client felt pressured while surrounded by officers and only confessed to appease them.