Background: In February 2023, the police were called to the 8800 block of Lanier Drive in Silver Spring, Maryland, in response to the murder of Taresha Pendarvis. This incident was captured by GoogleMaps. Additionally, we have an inset featuring the booking photo of Dennis Hinnant Jr., provided by the Maryland State’s Attorney’s Office.
A year ago, Dennis Hinnant Jr. entered a police station in Maryland, holding his child tightly. He approached the officers and disclosed that he had valuable information about a disturbing incident that had taken place at his residence. However, he made it clear that he would only share the details if he was provided with a cigarette.
According to charging documents, he made his demand, saying, “I know you all won’t let me leave here.”
A jury has reached a verdict in the case of Hinnant, 29, who has been found guilty of second-degree murder in the tragic death of his wife, Taresha Pendarvis, 28. The Maryland State’s Attorney’s Office recently announced that Hinnant, from Silver Spring, Maryland, could face a maximum of 40 years in prison. His sentencing is scheduled for July 18.
Maryland State’s Attorney John McCarthy believes that the maximum penalty is fitting for the situation.
McCarthy emphasized the commitment to vigorously prosecuting all forms of domestic violence.
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On February 1, 2023, Hinnant arrived at the Rockville City police station, visibly distressed, cradling his child, according to a statement of charges obtained by Law&Crime. Upon entering the station, Hinnant immediately engaged with officers in the lobby, willingly providing information about an incident that led him to seek their assistance. However, he was not immediately taken into custody.
During the interview, the police officer stated that Hinnant expressed his willingness to provide information but requested a chance to smoke a cigarette first.
According to the statement of charges, Hinnant expressed his desire to smoke a cigarette, but was informed that none of the individuals present had one. He then offered to provide information about the incident if given a cigarette. It is important to note that Hinnant was not under police custody at that time and was informed that he had the freedom to leave whenever he wished.
Police quickly received new information from Hinnant and were directed to go to Lanier Drive in Silver Spring to check on the well-being of the individual inside.
Hinnant was immediately taken into custody after the incident. During his interrogation, he admitted to the police that he and Pendarvis were married and that their fight had escalated due to a possible divorce. He described how their argument had reached a boiling point.
The state’s attorney’s office ensured the child’s safety by promptly removing them from Hinnant’s custody without any harm inflicted.
Hinnant’s attorney has not yet responded to requests for comment as of Monday. It is important to note that Hinnant is currently in detention and will remain so until sentencing.
I reached out to a member of the Pendarvis family for comment, but they have not responded at this time.
