Mocobizscene- Prosecutors have denied juvenile detention for two teenagers who are facing murder charges in the shooting death of a toddler in Prince George’s County. Their decision stems from concerns that the teenagers may have ties to a gang.
Two teenagers from Maryland have been denied juvenile detention after being charged with murder in the shooting death of a toddler in Prince George’s County. Prosecutors have expressed concerns about possible gang affiliation.
Two teenagers, aged 15 and 16, have been charged as adults with first- and second-degree murder in connection with the tragic shooting of 2-year-old Jeremy Poou-Caceres on February 8. During their initial court appearance, a judge ordered that both teens be held without bond. The 15-year-old boy is from Takoma Park, while the 16-year-old boy is from Hyattsville.
In Prince George’s County District Court, the lawyers representing the teenagers made a case for their transfer to juvenile detention. However, Judge Bryon Bereano rejected this plea and instead ordered the boys to stay in the adult detention center.
Prince George’s County State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy expressed her support for transferring juveniles to a juvenile facility, even if they are charged with adult offenses, during a news conference held after the court hearing. She emphasized the importance of public safety for all individuals, including those who are detained. However, Braveboy also acknowledged that in certain cases, where there are concerns about gang affiliation and individuals who may know each other being housed together, the approach may need to be reconsidered.
Braveboy was asked if she had concerns about gang affiliation in this case, to which she responded, “Yes, it’s possible.”
Johnny Alejandro Turcios, 28, and Israel Fuentes Jr., 33, are currently being held without bond on murder charges in relation to Poou-Caceres’ tragic death.
Braveboy stated on Tuesday that the investigation is still ongoing and there could be more arrests made.
Last week, investigators unveiled a video showcasing two additional individuals who are considered “persons of interest” in the case. If you have any information that can help identify or lead to the arrests and indictments of these individuals, a reward of up to $25,000 is available.
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