Defense Files Motion to Dismiss Murder Case Over speedy Trial Issue

Thank you for reading Baltimore Witness.
Consider making a donation to help us continue our mission.

During a pre-trial conference on Jan. 31, Baltimore City Circuit Judge Melissa K. Copeland scheduled a hearing on a defense motion to dismiss a case due to an alleged violation of a homicide defendant’s rights to a speedy trial.

Terrance Peterson, 34, is charged with first-degree murder, armed robbery, conspiracy to commit armed robbery, firearm use in a felony violent crime, firearm possession with a felony conviction, and having a handgun in a vehicle on a public road.

Peterson is on trial in relation to the Kim’s Deli murder that occurred on Dec. 12, 2019. Peterson has been found mentally incompetent multiple times in previous mental health court hearings, but was determined mentally competent to stand trial on Nov. 6, 2024.

In response to Peterson’s past mentally incompetent determinations, the prosecution said, “[Peterson] de-compensates because he stops taking his medicine.”

In asking for dismissal defense attorney Deborah Levi said the “trial has languished” due to multiple complications, including COVID-19 and the witness’ family living outside of the country.

Judge Copeland set a trial date for Sept. 9, contingent on the result of the upcoming motion hearing.

Peterson’s motion hearing is scheduled for May 15.