When an LPR hit plays a role in getting a convicted murderer three consecutive life sentences, we'd say that's one undeniable instance where the technology has more than paid for itself. Check out the most recent use case in our success story series.
The Story
On February 5, 2020, a resident of Glen Burnie, Maryland called 911. He reported that his home had been burglarized and it appeared that his roommate, Christopher Lawrence Jones, had been killed. Mr. Jones' 2010 Toyota Camry was also missing. While Anne Arundel County police officers searched the home and confirmed the homicide, they received news that there had been an LPR hit on that Toyota Camry.
The chase
Unfortunately, the two Anne Arundel Country detectives, Det. Scott Ballard and Det. Ian Preece, who responded to the LPR alert and pursued the Camry in what became an hours-long manhunt were shot at, and the driver— Joseph Willis of Pasadena—escaped the vehicle and fled. Fast forward 16 hours after the manhunt began, police found Willis hiding in a home in Curtis Bay and arrested him for murdering Mr. Jones and shooting Det. Ballard and Det. Breece.
The Good news
Both detectives are doing well, and Willis has been sentenced to three consecutive life sentences for murder and two attempted murders.
MEDIA COVERAGE:
For more on this story, visit:
CBS Baltimore: Anne Arundel County Detectives Released From Hospital After Shooting
Capital Gazette: Pasadena man who shot two Anne Arundel County police officers during manhunt sentenced to three life sentences
WBALTV: Joseph Willis receives 3 life sentences for homicide, shooting detectives
