Judge Complains About Defense Attorney in Shooting Case

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Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Melissa K. Copeland appeared exasperated at defense attorney Angela Shelton’s conduct regarding her handling of an attempted murder case on June 23.

Stand-in defense attorney Janine Meckler represented 47-year-old LaForrest Morgan in place of Shelton. Morgan is charged with attempted first- and second-degree murder, first-degree assault, armed robbery, robbery, and other related handgun charges in connection to a non-fatal shooting that occurred on the 2400 block of Pennsylvania Avenue on June 28, 2024.

Judge Copeland scheduled Morgan’s trial for June 23 on March 28. Despite multiple attempts by the counsel, Shelton was not able to be reached until later that morning, when she said she had a conflict.

Judge Copeland said that this is not the first time she has had concerns over Shelton’s conduct. In previous hearings, the prosecution claimed that Shelton had done little in regard to discovery of evidence. Shelton’s alleged lack of communication with the prosecution required Judge Copeland to order her to contact the Assistant State’s Attorney’s office in March.

During the June 23 hearing, Judge Copeland called Shelton’s actions “inexcusable.”

According to Meckler, Shelton was not in communication with Morgan, despite the defendant and his family’s continuous efforts to make it happen. Morgan expressed doubts in the past over removing Shelton from his case. During his hearing, he agreed to have another attorney,

Defense attorney Brandon Mead volunteered to represent Morgan. Morgan’s trial will be scheduled in reception court on June 25.

“Ms. Shelton owes Mr. Morgan a sincere apology,” Judge Copeland expressed.