Counsel Prepares for Trial After Non-Fatal Shooting Defendant Rejects Plea

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On Oct. 24, Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Melissa M. Phinn scheduled a trial for a 39-year-old attempted murder defendant after he rejected a plea offer.

Jerrod Rowlett is charged with attempted first- and second-degree murder, first- and second-degree assault, two counts of reckless endangerment, firearm use in a felony violent crime, conspiracy to commit first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit first- and second-degree assault, conspiracy to use a firearm in a felony violent crime, firearm possession with a felony conviction, illegal possession of a regulated firearm, illegal possession of ammunition, having a handgun on his person, discharging a gun within Baltimore City and having a gun within 100 yards of the public. These charges are in connection with an incident on June 2.

During the reception court hearing on Tuesday, the prosecution offered Rowlett a plea of 75 years, suspending all but 40 years, for attempted first-degree murder, a concurrent five years without parole for firearm use in a felony violent crime, and a consecutive five years without parole for firearm possession with a felony conviction. Additionally, Rowett would have to register as a gun offender.

Jerome Bivens, the defense attorney representing Rowlett, rejected this plea deal at the direction of his client.

Counsel and Judge Phinn then agreed on a three-day trial to begin on April 9, 2024.