Defense Claims Witness Framed Murder Suspect in Tenth Trial

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Tyrone Gerald White, 42, appeared before Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Lynn Stewart Mays for the first day of trial. White is accused of first-degree murder, armed robbery and several related firearm violations in relation to the Oct 2, 2017 shooting of Daniel Brinkley.

During opening statements, the prosecution laid out what it deemed strong evidence against White, including an eyewitness identifying him as the shooter, cellphone data that places him in the area of the crime and a journal in which he reportedly expressed anger towards Brinkley.

White wrote he was frustrated against Brinkley when the latter received more attention selling drugs, an allegedly commonplace activity on the 1300 block of Myrtle Avenue, the location of the shooting.

The prosecution described Brinkley’s death as an “execution,” and the evidence against White as damning.

Defense attorney Brandon Taylor presented an alternate explanation of the evidence, claiming that the eyewitness was the real culprit and had chosen to frame White for the murder because White was “the neighborhood snitch.”

Taylor argued that the witness anticipated White’s presence near the scene, and claimed the witness was the only person who alleged he saw the shooting occur. The witness’ testimony was the only direct evidence of White’s involvement. Taylor also claimed the journal contained White’s innermost thoughts, which did not represent his actions.

Many others also wanted Brinkley dead, Taylor said, including the eyewitness. However, only White was considered as a suspect.

The trial marks White’s tenth since 2017. Each previous trial was postponed, cancelled or overturned for various reasons by counsel and judges. Two were declared mistrials due to hung juries.

White’s trial will continue through the week.