Police Charge Md. Man With Helping Murder Suspect

FREDERICK, Md. (AP) -- Police in Frederick are charging a local man with helping a murder suspect avoid capture.

Police said Friday that Brandon McCallister, 29, is being held without bail on charges that include hindering their investigation into the July 8 shooting of Tranice Richardson.

Melvin Smith, 27, is charged with first-degree murder in the case.

Police say McCallister and Smith communicated after Richardson's death. They say McCallister arranged for Smith's transportation and lodging in the Pittsburgh area. Smith was captured there July 28, nearly three weeks after the slaying.

An attorney who has represented Smith in other criminal cases didn't immediately return a call from The Associated Press seeking comment about the charges.

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