Convicted Baltimore Man’s Defense Counsel Postponed Hearing Due to Client Not Being Present

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On Nov. 23, a Baltimore man convicted of discharging a firearm had his violation of probation hearing postponed due to the defendant not appearing before Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Nicole Barmore.

On Oct. 2, 2019, Bright, 27, was convicted of discharging a firearm in connection to an incident on July 4, 2019.

Melvin Bright’s defense attorney Edward Richitelli informed the court that he had not heard from his client despite repeated efforts to reach him.

Richitelli voiced his concern saying the defendant always reports on time, and it was not like his client to be out of contact with him or his probation agent. He told the court that Bright was notified of today’s hearing by his counsel assistant, but they could not confirm the message was received.

The probation agent assigned to the defendant informed the court that the last time they were in contact with Bright was two weeks ago.

Richitelli also brought up the defendant’s mental health issues which included schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. “When he is on medication, he is the most chillest person ever,” said Richitelli.

Believing that there could be an ongoing crisis for the defendant with his mental issues, the prosecutor suggested that a warrant be released for Bright.

Judge Barmore issued a warrant for the defendant and postponed his hearing for her next collateral docket on Feb. 28, 2023.