A Baltimore murder defendant is set to receive a new trial date after the prosecution requested another postponement on Oct. 20.
Maurice Prioleau, 28, is charged with the first-degree murder and assault of 27-year-old DeAngelo West, along with four firearm violations. He allegedly shot West in the head on Dec. 26, 2024, on the 2400 block of E. Preston Street. West was transported to an area hospital, where he was pronounced dead three days later.
The prosecutor said he was assigned to the case a week prior and requires further time to prepare due to it being a murder case.
Prioleau previously rejected a plea deal in May.
Due to a turnover of defense attorneys, he also waived his right to a speedy trial, which postponed his case by five months.
Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Melissa K. Copeland said she was displeased with the postponement request, stating Priorleau waived his right to a speedy trial under the impression that he would be tried no later than October.
Defense attorney Michael Cooper represented Prioleau at the hearing, standing in for Augustine Okeke.
Judge Copeland decided to rehear the matter on Oct. 23, when Okeke would be available.
