Attempted Murder Victim WIll Not Testify at Trial, Defense Tells Jury

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

Defendant Chardon A. Cruz III will face the jury for accusations of an attempted murder last June, but according to his counsel, the gunshot victim will neither testify nor even appear over the course of the trial.

On May 21, defense attorney Koryn High admitted to jurors that opening statements were “not my favorite because I have nothing to present to you yet.” Only as evidence is presented will defense counsel reveal its argument involving the shooting outside Uptown Liquor and Bar on June 30, 2024.

Charging documents state the victim was shot in the buttocks on the 2500 block of Washington Boulevard and treated for his injuries at a nearby hospital. High reiterated that the jury would not hear from him.

“You’re already missing that,” she said, further questioning what other issues may be found in the prosecution’s case. “Examine every piece of evidence that would add up to, ‘Mr. Cruz did it.’”

Surveillance video showing a red sedan pulling into an alleyway behind the bar followed by gunfire will be presented at trial. The assistant state’s attorney noted that Cruz was later identified as the owner of the sedan.

Testimony began Wednesday morning and is expected to continue into the afternoon with Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Nicole K. Barmore presiding.