Prosecutors Seek Life Without Parole In Frederick Case
FREDERICK, Md. (AP) -- Prosecutors in Frederick say they will seek a sentence of life without parole for a man charged with murdering a local woman.
Frederick County State's Attorney Charlie Smith told The Frederick News-Post Tuesday that Melvin Smith's 2001 conviction for manslaughter means he deserves the stiffest possible sentence if convicted of first-degree murder.
Melvin Smith isn't eligible for the death penalty due to a lack of aggravating circumstances. The 27-year-old defendant is accused of shooting Tranice Richardson, 33, in July.
He fathered one of Richardson's four children. Acquaintances say they had a turbulent relationship and that Smith had stalked and harassed Richardson before the shooting.
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