Suspect in Firearms Case Receives Mental Observation Hearing Date

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Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Melissa M. Phinn transferred the case of Deonte Anthony Simms to mental health court on June 3 following defense attorney Michael Tomko’s concerns about his client’s competency to stand trial. 

Simms, 32, faces nine firearm-related charges for allegedly discharging a gun during a mental health crisis on Jan. 28, 2024. At roughly 4:33 p.m., officers responded to his apartment. After Simms eventually let them in, they discovered unregistered firearms and ammunition. No injuries were sustained during the altercation. 

Due to prior criminal convictions, Simms is prohibited from owning firearms. 

Simms is scheduled to appear before Judge Gale E. Rasin for a mental observation hearing on June 4.