Javon Hines, 25, was acquitted May 19 by Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Michael A. DiPietro in connection to a 2022 non-fatal shooting on the 3300 block of Bayonne Avenue.
Hines had been charged with attempted first- and second-degree murder, first- and second-degree assault, firearm use in a felony violent crime, and discharging a firearm within Baltimore City. He was represented by defense attorneys Robert Cohen and Janet Anderson during the two-day bench trial.
According to court records, officers responded Oct. 21, 2022 to reports of an aggravated shooting and located a man suffering from multiple gunshot wounds to his upper body. Investigators later alleged ballistic evidence connected a Glock 48 handgun, which was recovered during a separate arrest involving Hines, to the Bayonne Avenue shooting.
During the second day of trial, prosecutors called a forensic science analyst who testified regarding the victim’s injuries. He sustained gunshot wounds to the shoulder, arm and buttocks.
The victim also testified. During questioning, the witness repeatedly avoided directly answering questions regarding the identity of the shooter. After continued questioning from prosecutors, the witness stated the individual allegedly responsible was present in the courtroom and identified Hines.
Prosecutors also played a recorded jail call from May 18 involving the victim and a previously sequestered witness. The recording was presented as evidence before closing arguments began.
During closing arguments, prosecutors argued evidence showed the victim had entered the passenger seat of a vehicle driven by a childhood friend before being shot multiple times. Prosecutors alleged the shooter exited the vehicle and fired additional shots after the victim fell from the car. The state also referenced previous statements allegedly made by the victim identifying the shooter as someone he trusted and admired.
Defense attorneys argued police failed to thoroughly investigate the shooting and did not sufficiently connect Hines to the incident. Defense further argued investigators failed to collect additional evidence and challenged testimony connecting Hines to the nickname “Black,” which had been referenced during the investigation.
Before delivering the verdict, Judge DiPietro stated the victim’s testimony throughout the trial was inconsistent and unreliable. The judge stated the court could not find Hines guilty beyond a reasonable doubt based on the evidence presented.
