Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Melissa Copeland called a defense lawyer “disingenuous” for implying the prosecution was responsible for a murder retrial delay. The heated exchange came during a reception court hearing on Sept. 25.
At issue is the retrial of Dominic Pressley, 39. He is charged with first-degree murder, two counts each of attempted first- and second-degree murder, assault, and several firearm violations in connection to a triple shooting that occurred July 20, 2024 on the 2400 block of Loyola Northway. The incident left 30-year-old Alan Grant dead and two other victims injured.
A mistrial was declared in May before Judge Alan C. Lazerow because of a hung jury.
The case was rescheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday of this week but defense attorney Angela Shelton was a no-show for a medical emergency.
The prosecutor complained she didn’t know about the problem until Shelton didn’t appear for the proceeding. “I texted her a couple of times,” said the prosecutor but heard nothing back.
“I’m prepared,” she said but fretted about the availability of witnesses that were set to go. “This is not of whether [Pressley] did this,” claimed the prosecutor of Pressley’s guilt.
The prosecutor also said that Pressley had earlier rejected a plea offer but no details were provided during the proceeding.
In response, Shelton said she wasn’t the problem but there were “emergency circumstances.”
Further, she said the state should make some accommodations for Pressley since he’s been held since Dec. 2024.
Clearly frustrated, Judge Copeland said, “I’ve heard enough.” She put the delay squarely on Shelton for not being available when the other parties were ready.
“I think it’s a bit disingenuous of you to come before court and indicate this case is being postponed,” said Judge Copeland questioning Shelton’s sincerity. “This case is ready to go,” said the judge.
Ultimately, parties agreed to reschedule the trial for Jan. 14, 2027.
