The 15-year-old has now been charged with manslaughter, 1st degree assault, and two counts of 2nd degree assault, and the 16-year-old defendant has been charged with two counts of 2nd degree assault.
Frederick, MD – Judge Julie Stevenson Solt ordered two juvenile defendants to remain held pending their next court appearance following a meeting Monday morning.
In a press conference, State’s Attorney Charlie Smith announced they have filed waiver petitions to move the cases to adult court, thus canceling the hearing set for October 22nd.
“Based upon the investigation of the police,” Smith said. “We feel that both of these young men should be charged as adults.”
Smith said based on the conclusion of the investigation by the Sheriff’s office, the two brothers face additional charges.
The 15-year-old has now been charged with manslaughter, 1st degree assault, and two counts of 2nd degree assault, while the 16-year-old defendant has been charged with two counts of 2nd degree assault.
The juveniles are being charged in connection to an incident occurring at the Great Frederick Fair on September 20th around 5:30 p.m. Frederick County Sheriff’s Office deputies assigned to the Fair were notified of an assault near the midway area of the fairgrounds.
Deputies located the victim, 59-year-old John Weed, unconscious on the ground. Weed later died of his injuries.
It is alleged that the 15-year-old juvenile male asked the victim for a dollar. At that point, the victim said no, and a verbal altercation occurred.
The defendants are being accused of punching Weed in the head while following him. Several minutes later, the 15-year-old juvenile male punched Mr. Weed in the head causing him to fall to the ground. As the victim laid on the ground, the 16-year-old brother spat on the victim.
Smith said the maximum prison time for manslaughter is 10 years in prison.
Judge Solt set a waiver hearing date for November 19th for both defendants.
By Timothy Young