Attempted murder defendant Shyheem Thompson grew frustrated with his attorney during a reception court hearing on Oct. 9 after learning his trial would be scheduled for Jan. 27, 2026.
Thompson, 24, and his co-defendant, 42-year-old Marcus Lilly, are charged with three counts each of attempted first- and second-degree murder, first-degree assault, and firearm use, as well as single counts of related firearm violations. Lilly and Thompson stand accused in an Oct. 16, 2024, shootout that occurred on the 3500 block of W. Caton Avenue.
Thompson voiced irritation with how slowly his case is moving.
“That date is way too far,” he told the court. “What happened to my right to a speedy trial?”
Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Melissa K. Copeland explained that the delay resulted from counsel’s limited availability. Thompson’s defense attorney, Andre Mahasa, told the court that he is scheduled for trial in Montgomery County in November and has no availability in December.
Upon hearing the new date, Thompson expressed an interest in obtaining new counsel. He noted that although Mahasa does good work, the communication between the two is poor.
Judge Copeland said the defendant’s current issues don’t trigger the rule to discharge counsel and retained the January 2026 trial date.
Copeland advised Thompson to speak further with Mahasa and the Office of the Public Defender about his options.
The joint trial is set before Judge Alan C. Lazerow, with four days allotted for proceedings.
