State’s Attorney’s Office says the use of force by Corporal Morton ‘necessary and proportional.’
Frederick, Md (KM) The Frederick County Sheriff’s Deputy who shot a man armed with a knife on Monday evening will not be facing charges. In a statement, the Frederick County State’s Attorney’s Office says it has reviewed the body-worn camera footage and has spoken with investigators assigned to this incident. It concludes that the use of force by Corporal Gregory Morton against Cody Berg was “necessary and proportional.”
“As a result, it is our opinion that Corporal Morton did not commit a crime and therefore, no charges will be filed against Corporal Morton,” the statement from the State’s Attorney’s Office says.
But the State’s Attorney’s Office says this opinion does not preclude any administrative actions taken against Corporal Morton.
On Monday at 6:44 PM, Corporal Morton was flagged down about a man having a mental health crisis. Cody Berg was located in the parking lot next to the Old Towne Tavern in the 300 block of North Market Street. The Sheriff’s’ Office says Berg had a knife. Corporal Morton numerous times ordered Berg to drop the knife. Authorities say Berg refused and Corporal Morton fired one shot, striking Berg.
The Sheriff’s Office says Corporal Morton and other deputies administered first aid to Berg until medics arrived. The victim was flown to a trauma center by a State Police helicopter.
The statement also says the State’s Attorney’s Office will not be releasing any evidence in this investigation until it’s completed; and that includes body worn camera footage.
The State’s Attorney’s Office also says Cody Berg has pending criminal charges against him.
By Kevin McManus