In a recent development in the Baltimore area, Tyrik Braxton, also known as “Son-Son,” pleaded guilty to the discharge of a weapon that resulted in a murder-for-hire conspiracy. Braxton admitted to accepting money and assisting the co-conspirators in the murder of Juan Ross, who was believed to have been cooperating with law enforcement. The plea agreement revealed that Braxton accepted payment to commit the murder and utilized interstate communication facilities, such as cellular telephones and a vehicle, in carrying out the crime. The sentencing is set for November 8, 2023, with a recommended prison term between 20 and 25 years. This case highlights the collaborative efforts of various law enforcement agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, to address violent crimes and make neighborhoods safer.
Introduction
This comprehensive article will discuss the details of a murder-for-hire case in Baltimore, Maryland, involving defendant Tyrik Braxton. It will cover the background of the case, including information about the victim, Juan Ross, and the allegations against him. The article will also provide insight into the plea agreement and charges Braxton faced, as well as the consequences of his guilty plea. Additionally, the article will explore the details of the murder-for-hire conspiracy, the arrest and search warrants executed, and the involvement of co-defendants in the case. The role of investigative leads from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) will be discussed, with a focus on the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN). The article will also examine the significance of NIBIN in solving and preventing crimes, particularly in relation to firearms. The role of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) in reducing violent crime and making communities safer will also be highlighted. Finally, the article will express recognition and thanks to the involved law enforcement agencies and provide contact information for further inquiries.
Background on the Case
Overview of the Murder-for-Hire Case
The murder-for-hire case under examination involves defendant Tyrik Braxton, who pleaded guilty to the discharge of a weapon resulting in the death of Juan Ross. The case unfolds in Baltimore, Maryland.
Identification of Tyrik Braxton as Defendant
Tyrik Braxton, also known as “Son-Son,” is a 25-year-old resident of Baltimore, Maryland. He has been identified as the defendant in the murder-for-hire case.
Victim Juan Ross and Allegations Against Him
Juan Ross, a 23-year-old resident of Columbia, Maryland, is the victim in the murder-for-hire case. Allegations were made against him, suggesting that he cooperated with law enforcement as a witness and informant.
Release on Bail and Subsequent Events
After being arrested on drug and weapon charges, Juan Ross was released on bail. The article will delve into the events that transpired after his release and how they relate to the murder-for-hire conspiracy.
Plea Agreement and Charges
Tyrik Braxton’s Guilty Plea
Tyrik Braxton, the defendant in the murder-for-hire case, pleaded guilty to the charge of discharge of a firearm during a crime of violence resulting in death.
Charge of Discharge of a Weapon Resulting in Death
The specific charge brought against Tyrik Braxton is the discharge of a firearm during a crime of violence, which resulted in the death of Juan Ross.
Legal Consequences and Sentencing Framework
The article will discuss the legal consequences associated with Tyrik Braxton’s guilty plea and the potential sentencing framework that may be applied.
Details of the Murder-for-Hire Conspiracy
Co-conspirators and Their Roles
The murder-for-hire conspiracy involves multiple co-conspirators. The article will provide information on their identities and their respective roles in the conspiracy.
Solicitation and Accepted Payment
The article will delve into the details of the solicitation process, explaining how Tyrik Braxton was approached and accepted payment to commit the murder as part of the conspiracy.
Use of Interstate Commerce Facilities
The conspiracy involved the use of interstate commerce facilities, particularly cellular telephones and a vehicle. The article will highlight the significance of these elements in executing the murder-for-hire.
Arrest and Search Warrants
Howard County Police Response to Shooting
Following the shooting of Juan Ross, the Howard County Police responded to the incident. The article will outline the sequence of events and law enforcement’s response.
Execution of Search Warrants
Search warrants were executed as part of the investigation, with a focus on Tyrik Braxton’s residence. The article will provide details about the execution of these search warrants.
Evidence Recovered During Arrest
During the arrest of Tyrik Braxton, law enforcement recovered several key pieces of evidence. The article will discuss the nature of this evidence and its relevance to the murder-for-hire case.
Co-defendants and Sentencing
Daquante Thomas and His Plea Agreement
Co-defendant Daquante Thomas entered into a plea agreement in relation to his involvement in the murder-for-hire case. The article will discuss the terms of the agreement and the sentencing imposed.
Jourdain Larose and Pending Trial
Another co-defendant in the murder-for-hire case, Jourdain Larose, also known as “JBlacc,” awaits trial. The article will provide information on the charges against Larose and the current status of the case.
Indictment and Presumption of Innocence
The indictment of Jourdain Larose does not indicate guilt but rather serves as the formal accusation against him. The article will highlight the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.
Role of Investigative Leads from ATF
Introduction to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF)
The article will provide an overview of the ATF, emphasizing its role in firearms, explosives, and arson investigations.
National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN)
The National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) is a critical tool utilized by the ATF. The article will explain the purpose and functions of NIBIN in solving and preventing violent crimes.
Significance of NIBIN in Solving and Preventing Crimes
The article will explore the specific ways in which NIBIN contributes to the resolution and prevention of crimes, particularly those involving firearms.
Linkage of Firearms and Disruption of Shooting Cycles
NIBIN’s capability to link firearms used in multiple crime scenes will be highlighted, as it enables law enforcement to disrupt shooting cycles and expedite investigations.
The Role of Project Safe Neighborhoods
Overview of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN)
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is a program aimed at reducing violent crime and enhancing community safety. The article will provide an overview of PSN and its objectives.
Reducing Violent Crime and Making Communities Safer
The primary goal of PSN is to diminish violent crime rates and create safer environments within communities. The article will discuss the strategies employed to achieve this objective.
Enforcement and Prevention Strategies
PSN combines both enforcement and prevention strategies to address violent crime. The article will explore these strategies and how they contribute to the program’s success.
Collaboration and Partnerships
Collaboration and partnerships play a crucial role in the implementation of PSN. The article will highlight the significance of these relationships in achieving positive outcomes.
Recognition and Thanks
The article will conclude by expressing recognition and gratitude to the involved law enforcement agencies, including the ATF, Howard County Police Department, Howard County State’s Attorney’s Office, FBI, Maryland State Police, Anne Arundel County Police Department, Baltimore County Police Department, and Baltimore Police Department. Recognition will also be extended to Assistant U.S. Attorney Kim Y. Hagan for prosecuting the case.
Contact Information
The article will provide contact information for further inquiries related to the murder-for-hire case and Project Safe Neighborhoods.