A man in Maryland is going to face over 18 years behind bars, according to a recent decision by a judge, for a case of kidnapping and assault that took place back in 2013. The man allegedly kidnapped another man who is from Moses Lake.
The man who authorities say committed the crime is 24 years old. He initially got seven years for the kidnapping and assault charges, but then he got 11 more years on top of that because of the weapons charge that went along with the case. He apparently had a short-barreled shotgun.
The prosecutor in the case said that the man will be in prison for a minimum of 17 years for the crimes. This is due to the fact that there are not many ways for his sentence to be reduced after he begins to serve. For one thing, when serious violent crimes are committed, Maryland law will only allow the sentence to be reduced by a maximum of ten percent. For charges that have been enhanced due to the use of weapons - the additional 11 years - there is no possible reduction.
The man could end up with more jail time in the future, though, as he has another case in the works right now. He has been charged with being involved in a drive-by shooting and could face charges for first-degree attempted murder. The incident in question actually took place in 2012, in November, before the alleged kidnapping.
When going to trial for a gun crime or a related charge, it is important for anyone who has been charged to understand both his or her rights and the intricacies of the law in Maryland. Gun laws in particular can vary from state to state.
Source: Columbia Basin Herald, "Man sentenced to 18 years for 2013 kidnapping, assault" Joe Utter, Jul. 31, 2014