New Jersey Acting Governor Way Declares State of Emergency (2024)

LA PLATA, MD—On Tuesday, Charles County Circuit Court Judge William R. Greer, Jr. delivered a life sentence without the possibility of parole to 35-year-old Deanthony Lamont Warrick. The Indian Head resident was found guilty in the brutal murder of Jasmine Lakesha Hicks, along with related charges.

Warrick was convicted on June 6 by a Charles County jury, and the sentence reflects the severity of the crime. Tony Covington, State’s Attorney for Charles County, expressed his satisfaction with the court's decision, highlighting the premeditation and brutality of the crime that led to the pursuit of the maximum penalty under Maryland law.

The incident, which took place on April 12, 2023, began with a verbal altercation outside Warrick’s residence in Bryans Road, escalating to a violent attack where Ms. Hicks suffered multiple stab wounds. The attack was partially recorded on a nearby surveillance camera, capturing chilling evidence of the crime.

Additional sentences were handed down for related charges, including three years for carrying a dangerous weapon with intent to injure, one year for possession of a controlled dangerous substance, and 15 years each for possession of regulated firearms following a previous conviction of a violent crime.

The court's decision underlines the commitment of the judicial system to hold individuals accountable for such heinous acts, with the hope of delivering justice for the victim and her family.

FREDERICK, MD—The Frederick Police Department is currently investigating three separate shooting incidents that occurred last night across the city. Two individuals were injured in the events, sustaining non-life-threatening injuries and receiving treatment at local hospitals.

Detectives are diligently working to piece together the circ*mstances of these incidents and have called on residents to assist by reviewing footage from home security systems that might capture relevant evidence. Detective Stephen Radtke is leading the investigations and can be reached at 301-600-2141 or via email at SRadtke@FrederickMDPolice.org for any information.

The police are also accepting anonymous tips at 301-600-TIPS. Community cooperation is deemed crucial in gathering information and aiding the ongoing investigations into these violent occurrences.

PONTIAC, MI—In a joint press conference held on Friday, Oakland County Prosecutor Karen D. McDonald and Madison Heights Police Chief Brent LeMerise detailed serious charges against Elaina Rose Jennings and Daniel John Giacchina. The charges stem from the tragic death of Jennings' six-year-old son, Giovanni “Chulo” Jennings.

On July 30, Elaina Jennings reported her son unresponsive, leading to his discovery with multiple injuries by first responders in Madison Heights. Despite immediate medical attention, Giovanni succumbed to his injuries the following day. Investigations revealed severe and regular abuse inflicted by both Jennings and Giacchina, who also allegedly misled police regarding the circ*mstances leading to Giovanni’s condition.

Elaina Jennings faces charges of murder, first-degree child abuse, and lying to a police officer. Daniel Giacchina is charged with murder, first-degree child abuse, possession of ammunition by a felon, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, felony firearm, and lying to a police officer.

Prosecutor McDonald condemned the horrific nature of the abuse and praised the exhaustive efforts of law enforcement in uncovering the truth. Chief LeMerise also recognized the swift action and ongoing commitment of the first responders and investigative team.

Both defendants were arraigned without bond and await a Probable Cause Conference on August 21. The charges against them include severe penalties, reflecting the gravity of the offenses.