(June 29, 2017) Darryl K. Wise, 26, of Pocomoke, who faces the possibility of life without parole on murder charges, as of last week is still seeking legal counsel.
Wise, who is accused in the murder of Deontre’ Bailey, 23, also of Pocomoke, had an initial appearance in Circuit Court last Wednesday in Snow Hill.
According to Maryland State Police Homicide Unit investigators, Wise was engaged in a discussion on the front porch of a residence in the 100-block of Fourth Street just before 10 p.m. on April 19. Shortly after this police said a group of individuals, including Bailey, walked up and joined the conversation on the porch.
Investigators said witnesses saw Bailey throw a bottle at Wise, striking him in the chest, at which point a violent altercation ensued that ultimately resulted in Wise shooting Bailey with a handgun.
During the circuit court hearing last week, Judge Richard Bloxom first advised Wise of his rights under the law and reviewed the pending charges, which include: first and second-degree murder, manslaughter, first and second-degree assault, and use of a firearm in a violent crime.
Wise previously made an appearance in district court in June 16, at which point the case was transferred to circuit court because of the nature of the charges.
After being questioned in circuit court by Bloxom regarding his legal representation, Wise explained that his although his family had been able to retain a private lawyer for the June 16 appearance, the cost had thereafter become prohibitive.
“Right now my family is making arrangements to get me a private attorney,” he said.
When Bloxom pressed for a more detailed timeframe, Wise admitted he was unsure at this point.
Bloxom explained if retaining private counsel were problematic, the state would provide legal representation. He also noted Wise could represent himself in court.
“You need to apply immediately to the office of the public defender,” he said.
Bloxom also stressed the gravity of the charges, noting that a first-degree murder conviction can result in a life sentence.
“The state could also seek life without parole,” he said.
Concurring with Bloxom’s advice, Wise said he would immediately pursue obtaining a public defender.
The next scheduled appearances for Wise are on Aug. 9, for a motion hearing, with a jury trial scheduled on Sept. 6.
Wise, who is accused in the murder of Deontre’ Bailey, 23, also of Pocomoke, had an initial appearance in Circuit Court last Wednesday in Snow Hill.
According to Maryland State Police Homicide Unit investigators, Wise was engaged in a discussion on the front porch of a residence in the 100-block of Fourth Street just before 10 p.m. on April 19. Shortly after this police said a group of individuals, including Bailey, walked up and joined the conversation on the porch.
Investigators said witnesses saw Bailey throw a bottle at Wise, striking him in the chest, at which point a violent altercation ensued that ultimately resulted in Wise shooting Bailey with a handgun.
During the circuit court hearing last week, Judge Richard Bloxom first advised Wise of his rights under the law and reviewed the pending charges, which include: first and second-degree murder, manslaughter, first and second-degree assault, and use of a firearm in a violent crime.
Wise previously made an appearance in district court in June 16, at which point the case was transferred to circuit court because of the nature of the charges.
After being questioned in circuit court by Bloxom regarding his legal representation, Wise explained that his although his family had been able to retain a private lawyer for the June 16 appearance, the cost had thereafter become prohibitive.
“Right now my family is making arrangements to get me a private attorney,” he said.
When Bloxom pressed for a more detailed timeframe, Wise admitted he was unsure at this point.
Bloxom explained if retaining private counsel were problematic, the state would provide legal representation. He also noted Wise could represent himself in court.
“You need to apply immediately to the office of the public defender,” he said.
Bloxom also stressed the gravity of the charges, noting that a first-degree murder conviction can result in a life sentence.
“The state could also seek life without parole,” he said.
Concurring with Bloxom’s advice, Wise said he would immediately pursue obtaining a public defender.
The next scheduled appearances for Wise are on Aug. 9, for a motion hearing, with a jury trial scheduled on Sept. 6.