On Nov. 7, a defendant accused of involuntary manslaughter was scheduled for a trial date before Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Melissa Phinn.
Defendant Jasmine Jones was offered an open plea, where the defense counsel is free to suggest a term within the sentencing guidelines for involuntary manslaughter, first-degree assault, and second-degree assault.
Jones, 25, is charged with involuntary manslaughter, first-degree assault, and second-degree assault in connection to an incident that occurred on Oct. 4, 2021.
According to court documents, Jones walked into a store and punched Whitney Purnell, 33, in the head. During the struggle, Purnell had a gun that went off and shot her in the torso. Purnell’s manner of death was ruled a homicide.
Jones and her defense attorney Brandon Mead rejected the plea offered to her.
Jones’ trial is scheduled for April 10 and is expected to last two days with Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge Videtta Brown presiding.
