Judge Considers Reduced Sentence For Defendant in 1999 Murder

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Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Lynn S. Mays heard arguments for the reduction of Davon Alston’s murder sentence under the Juvenile Restoration Act (JRA) on July 15. The JRA allows adults who were tried as minors to request reduced sentences after they have served 20 or more years.

Alston, now 42, was incarcerated for 25 years for a crime that occurred Nov. 22, 1999, when he was 17. Consequently, he is eligible for a reconsideration. He was sentenced to 40 years in prison for the charges of first-degree murder and unlawful possession of a firearm.

Defense attorney Catherine Wooley argued that Alston deserves and is capable of growing from a second chance, noting he has the potential to become a productive member of society.

Alston’s aunt took the stand to express her love for her nephew, and declared she was willing to support him by allowing him to live in her home as long as necessary.

Alston’s father also took the stand, stating that he would support Alston however he could. He also discussed how he and Alston’s mother’s struggled with addiction, as well as an 18-month period of incarceration he experienced during Alston’s childhood that he believes contributed to Alston’s struggles.

Wooley also summoned the manager of a halfway house and rehabilitation center, who described the center’s recovery and reintegration processes and stated that Alston would have a place there upon release.

Wooley emphasized Alston’s had a strong support network and desire for self improvement, including a focus on mental health and an interest in doing home improvement and acquiring other technical skills.

While the prosecution acknowledged Alston’s relative youth at the time of his incarceration, as well as the difficult nature of his childhood, they claimed these extenuating factors had already been taken into consideration.

Court records reveal that Alston’s original sentencing also involved a separate four-hour spree of carjackings from 1999, one of which resulted in the murder of transgender activist Tacy Raino Ranta, 50. Evidence in the case revealed one of Alston’s co-defendants fatally shot Ranta in the chest.

Prior to his sentencing for the crime spree, Alston pleaded guilty to six of the separate violent felonies, which involved six separate victims. Alston’s total sentencing exposure on these convictions would have been life without parole, plus 175 years. In consideration of his age and other factors, he was sentenced to 40 years.

The prosecution also cast skepticism onto Alston’s progress and self improvement, noting he had assaulted a prison guard only 10 months prior to the hearing.

The case is currently under review.