LEONARDTOWN, MD (November 25, 2025) – State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that a St. Mary’s County jury convicted Joseph Daren Brooks, 23, of Lexington Park, Maryland, of charges that include first-degree murder, the use of a firearm in the commission of a crime of violence, and regulated firearm possession by a disqualified person for his role in the fatal shooting of a 23-year-old victim.
Brooks was convicted of the following offenses following a five-day jury trial:
- First-degree murder (maximum penalty LIFE in prison);
- Use of a firearm in the commission of a violent crime (maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, with a mandatory minimum of five years without the possibility of parole); and
- Regulated firearm illegal possession by a disqualified person (maximum penalty of 5 years in prison).
“This verdict brings long-awaited justice for the family members devastated by this senseless violence,” said State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling. “The jury’s decision reflects the strength of the evidence and the tireless work of the detectives and prosecutors who refused to allow these brutal acts to go unanswered. Our office remains firmly committed to prosecuting all violent offenders.”
Brooks will continue to be held without bond pending a sentencing hearing where he faces a maximum penalty of LIFE plus 25 years in prison.
Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Alena Mosier and Assistant State’s Attorney Shaye Reynolds prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.
Detective Warren Forinash of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office was the lead investigator.
The Honorable Joseph Stanalonis presided over the case.
