Judge Amends Attempted Murder Defendant’s Sentence in Post-Conviction Hearing

By Amina Thiam [former] - December 20, 2022
Attempted Murder | Court | Daily Stories | Non-Fatal Shooting | Shooting | Suspects |

On Dec. 19, 42-year-old convicted attempted murder defendant Jamar Jackson appeared before Judge Ronald Silkworth of the Baltimore City Circuit Court for a sentencing modification hearing. 

The prosecutor told the court that Jackson was previously convicted of attempted murder for a July 2017 shooting incident in which one man was shot three times on the 1800 block of North Mount Street. 

According to the Baltimore City State’s Attorney’s Office, Jackson was previously convicted of two counts of attempted second-degree murder, first-degree and second-degree assault, reckless endangerment, use of a firearm in the commission of a crime of violence, illegal possession of a regulated firearm, and wearing, carrying, or transporting a handgun. 

He received a 65-year-sentence in 2019 for the shooting.

Jackson’s lawyer Jason Silverstein informed the court that his client’s co-defendant, Cedric Caison, was acquitted of the 2017 crime. Caison was alleged to have driven the getaway truck when Jackson fled from the scene on July 7. 

Silverstein told Judge Silkworth that Jackson had been taking his incarceration very seriously and was committed to bettering his life. He told the judge that Jackson had received training to help disabled inmates, aid in suicide prevention, and had a commitment to his job and his family. 

Judge Silkworth asked Jackson about his previous career as a city equipment operator, as well as his plans when he is eventually released. He stated that he was surprised to hear about the community work Jackson had completed while in prison.

“You have a lot that you can offer to young people. You have a good heart,” Judge Silkworth told Jackson. 

Based on a plea arrangement with the prosecutor, the judge amended Jackson’s sentence to 30 years, suspending all but 10 for second-degree attempted murder, 25 years, suspending all but 12 for first-degree assault, and 20 years, suspending all but the first five to run concurrently with each other.

Jackson received an aggregate sentence of 50 years, suspending all but 12, with five years probation. He was also mandated to complete 100 hours of community service, register as a gun offender in the state of Maryland, and have no contact with the two victims. 

Judge Silkworth stated that he believed Jackson could positively influence young people in Baltimore city and prevent them from making the same mistakes he did. 

“I’m hoping it’s the beginning of what will become a lifetime commitment,” the judge concluded.