Murder Convict Requests Judge Address Drug Treatment Facility Issues

By Andrew Michaels - September 22, 2021
Court | Daily Stories | Home Page | Homicides | Suspects |

A 59-year-old Jessup, Md. man, who is serving a life sentence for a murder in 1986, requested that Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Jeffrey M. Geller investigate a drug treatment facility where the convict said he is experiencing healthcare issues due to staff.

Marlow Bates was found guilty of murder and a handgun violation in January 1987. He is serving a life sentence plus an additional 20 years. A third count, use of a deadly weapon, was merged with other counts, according to the Maryland Judiciary website.

On Sept. 22, a member of the drug treatment facility said Bates entered the in-patient program in June and is expected to complete it by mid-December. However, Bates told Judge Geller that his health is in jeopardy as the facility is not abiding by his dietary restrictions due to his diabetes and additional health issues.

Although Judge Geller said he doesn’t have the direct authority to change facilities for Bates, the judge said he will speak with the facility about Bates’ current issues.

“I didn’t even know I could get help like this. It’s a good program. It does work,” Bates said.

A facility member added that Bates is attending groups and is a role model in the community, helping younger people who are going through similar situations.

Judge Geller scheduled Bates to return to court on Nov. 22