Carroll County State's Attorney's Office

Natalie Klein
Prosecution Assistant II

Why did you come to work in a States Attorney’s Office?
I have always been interested in working in the Criminal Justice system. Working in the Criminal Justice field is very important to know the law side as well. I had no criminal law background coming out of college, but working here has helped me gain knowledge regarding The Criminal Justice System. This is only the beginning, and I am very lucky to be in this position here at the State's Attorney’s Office.

What do you like about your job?
One thing I have found that I love about my job is the relationships I have created. I have met some of the best co-workers and lifelong friends. Being the new person can always be scary, but within the first week, people were so inviting, friendly, and willing to help whenever it was needed. It is so refreshing to work in an atmosphere where you are excited to come to work.

What do you do in your free time?
In my free time, I enjoy reading, yoga, and spending time with family and friends. Whenever the chance arises, I also enjoy going to country concerts and traveling as much as possible.

"Cristopher Babinskyy officially took on the role of the latest assistant state's attorney today, with the swearing-in conducted by Clerk of the Circuit Court Heather DeWees, accompanied by State's Attorney Haven Shoemaker. Cristopher is enthusiastic and prepared to make a strong start, and our office is fortunate to welcome him to the team."

PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
For more information, please contact:

Office of the State’s Attorney for Carroll County
Phone: 410-386-2671
Fax: 410-876-9286
Email: [email protected]

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Westminster, Maryland – December 4, 2023

WESTMINSTER MAN SENTENCED TO TWENTY-FIVE YEARS IN PRISON WITHOUT THE POSSIBILITY OF PAROLE FOR ARMED ROBBERY OF LOCAL CONVENIENCE STORE

Curtis Frisby was convicted in September of this year after a three-day jury trial for the armed robbery of the owner of a local convenience store. On October 23rd of 2022, Frisby walked into the Penny Mart convenience store while masked and armed with a knife. He then robbed the owner, Abdul Azizi, at knifepoint of the money that was in the till before fleeing the location. The robbery was caught on surveillance video. Frisby had previously been in the convenience store and was caught on surveillance video approximately a week prior wearing the same clothing that he wore during the robbery. Frisby returned to the scene the following day and entered the store while a detective was speaking with Mr. Azizi. Mr. Azizi identified Frisby as the robber, and Detective Daugherty and members of the Westminster Police Department followed Frisby to his residence and arrested him. The clothes Frisby was wearing during the robbery were found in the residence as well. The State used photographs, and surveillance videos, along with the identification of Frisby as the robber by Mr. Azizi, as evidence at trial. During the trial, Mr. Azizi indicated that he was certain that Frisby was the robber and that he and Frisby had spoken in the Penny Mart a week or so prior to the robbery. Mr. Frisby told Mr. Azizi at that time that Mr. Azizi might want better security.

Due to Frisby’s extensive prior criminal record, including two prior convictions for robbery and armed robbery, the sentencing guidelines called for a mandatory sentence of twenty-five years without the possibility of parole. The prosecutor, Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Adam Wells, asked the court to sentence Frisby pursuant to the mandatory sentence and pointed out Frisby’s extensive record of violent crimes dating back to the 1980s. Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Wells pointed out that Frisby had never successfully completed any prior probation or parole.

Presiding Judge Brian L. DeLeonardo reviewed Frisby’s pre-trial sentencing report and indicated Frisby’s prior robberies met the mandatory statute requirements that he be sentenced to twenty-five years without the possibility of parole, and Judge DeLeonardo then sentenced Frisby accordingly. Carroll County State’s Attorney Haven N. Shoemaker commented, “This stiff sentence handed down by Judge DeLeonardo is fitting justice for a violent career criminal, and the folks of Carroll County can sleep better knowing he is locked up for a full twenty-five years.”

Come share your ideas for how we can do more to address the overdose crisis!

Event Details: This event will feature presentations from state and local government officials. Members of the public will also have the chance to speak during the meeting.

January 17, 2024, 6:30 to 7:00 Pm

You still have the opportunity to select a child's wish from the tree at Texas Roadhouse. The Carroll County State's Attorney's Office is collaborating with TRH to brighten Christmas morning for less fortunate children in our county, making their wishes come true. Swing by Texas Roadhouse, choose an ornament and kindly return the unwrapped gifts by December 13th. Your support is immensely appreciated. Thank you.

If you go by and they are not open yet, ring the bell, and they will let you in to grab an ornament.

SCAM OF THE WEEK:
Post-Shopping Scams
Have you finished your holiday shopping yet? Because cybercriminals are just getting started. There are thousands of shopping-themed scams this time of year, but those scams don’t end when your cart is empty. Cybercriminals continue to target shoppers with urgent phishing emails about their recent purchases.

Two common post-shopping scams are fake shipping delays and unexpected purchase confirmations. Typically, these scams include a sense of urgency designed to catch you off guard in the hopes that you will click impulsively. You may be directed to click a link for tracking information or download a receipt for an expensive order that you did not place. These emails can be alarming, but if you take your time, they are easy to catch.

Use the tips below to spot post-shopping scams:
• If you are expecting a package and receive a related email, look for details such as the order number, purchase date, and payment method.
• If you receive a notice from a retailer, don’t click any links in the email. Instead, use your browser to navigate directly to the retailer’s official website and look up your order there.
• Remember to stop and look for red flags. For example, see if the email was sent outside of business hours or lists prices in a currency that you don’t typically use.

Carroll County Government - MD
carrollcountymd.gov
Stop, Look, and Think. Don't be fooled.

Spotlight Friday
Elizabeth A. Camuti
Senior Assistant State’s Attorney

Why did you become an attorney/prosecutor?
My father served in the Navy which brought my family to Maryland and then pursued a career in the foreign service taking our family to live in India and then South Africa for three-year intervals. I am proud of our democracy and the ever-evolving Rule of Law vital to the sustained stability of our country. I knew from an early age that I wanted to advocate for others who were being exploited. I majored in Government and Politics, the first in my family to obtain a college degree. I still didn’t know what career path I wanted to pursue and worked as a District Court Commissioner for several years. I concluded I could advocate more effectively by getting my law degree. I worked in public interest legal services briefly during and after law school and then clerked for a Circuit Court judge in Washington County, joining the State’s Attorney’s Office following the clerkship. I enjoy researching, writing, and litigating the current state of the law and working with law enforcement in upholding the Rule of Law. It’s nice to be back home in this community!

What do you love about the office and the job?
I love living and working in this community. I’m very fortunate to work with a very supportive and brilliant team of trial attorneys and support staff. I love having a boss who advocates tirelessly for his employees’ best interests. Always a fan of any “Who dun nit?” I enjoy criminal investigations and bringing offenders to justice.

What do you do in your free time?
The majority of my spare time is spent with my teenager. I enjoy cooking, gardening, traveling, cheering on the high school football team, volunteering with my child’s swim team, and getting out in nature. Currently I enjoy reading in a book club with friends.

PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
For more information please contact:

Office of the State’s Attorney for Carroll County
Phone: 410-386-2671
Fax: 410-876-9286
Email: [email protected]

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Westminster, Maryland – November 29, 2023

Westminster man found guilty of Second Degree Assault during “road rage” incident.

Michael Lawrence Hill, 34 years old, was found guilty by a jury after two days of trial presided over by the Honorable Richard R. Titus. The assault occurred on February 23, 2023 in the area of Main Street and Bond street in Westminster after the Defendant became upset with the victim for driving past his double-parked vehicle.

The victim and his wife testified at trial that upon seeing a double-parked vehicle they drove around it and continued on. The Defendant then began to drive after them, caught up to their vehicle, then exited his vehicle and approached the driver’s side window of the victim’s truck and spat in the face of the victim, punched him in the face and then pulled the victim out of the vehicle. Once the victim was out of the vehicle, the Defendant continued to strike him, causing him to fall to the ground, at which point the defendant began to kick the victim. The Defendant got back into the vehicle and drove off. The victim followed the defendant while calling 911. Before police could arrive on scene, the Defendant again slammed on his brakes, exited the vehicle, approached and threatened to stab the victim in the neck. Using the description of the vehicle and the license plate number given to them by the victim, the police were quickly able to find and stop the Defendant in the vehicle, at which point they found what appeared to be blood on his clothing and admitted having a knife.

The Office of the State’s Attorney for Carroll County was represented by Assistant State’s Attorneys Karla R. Goldman and Brian Barth. Various members of the Westminster Police Department responded to the scene and conducted the brief investigation.

Carroll County State’s Attorney Haven Shoemaker added, “road rage incidents continue to be a problem on roadways throughout the country. Through the prosecution of this case by our office, a message has been sent that road rage will not be tolerated in Carroll County.”

This week, the Carroll County State's Attorney's Office presented the Special OPTS (op**te prevention and teen support) program to 11th graders at Westminster High School and Century High School. This initiative aims to address the perils associated with alcohol and substance abuse, particularly op**tes like fentanyl. It isn't simply a "just say no" program; instead, it delves into real-life narratives of devastation caused by substance use as well as stories of recovery. Our focus is not on prevention alone but on guiding how to support someone who has already chosen to use substances. We have a message of hope for families as well. Addiction destroys families; however, recovery restores families.
Our partnership with Carroll County Public Schools is highly valued, allowing us to disseminate this impactful message. We appreciate the collaborative effort to spread awareness and support in dealing with these issues.

ASSISTANT STATE’S ATTORNEY

The Carroll County State’s Attorney’s Office is seeking applications for an entry level Assistant State’s Attorney. Experience in criminal litigation is preferred but not required. All candidates must be a member in good standing with the Maryland Bar and have a strong interest in trial advocacy and criminal law. Starting salary is $77,085.

Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, writing sample, and list of references via email to Executive Assistant, Jennifer Smith at [email protected].

Stay alert this holiday season! The Caroll County State’a Attorney's Office emphasizes the importance of vigilance while shopping or away from home. Criminals often exploit such situations during the holidays, so be mindful and stay safe.

Spotlight Friday
Emma Bartow
Bilingual Advocacy Assistant

Why did you start working in the State’s Attorney’s Office?

I’ve been working as a freelance interpreter and translator in different settings mainly in court, legal, immigration, IRS, medical, education, and tourism fields. I’ve truly enjoyed them all. While working in that capacity, my skills focused on the linguistic aspect. My knowledge about the law in court was very general. It was my particular thirst for learning more specifics and the desire to know a little deeper about the law and court procedures which made me want to be part of the State’s Attorney’s Office. I started eager to learn and here I am getting fed a little more every day.
Court settings are mostly adversarial with lots of drama and serious facts, however, at some point in my life, while working as court interpreter, I felt attracted to the mission of Prosecutors to prove cases beyond a reasonable doubt. I think there is a great responsibility at a stake, and I felt captivated somehow for the role that the assistant state’s attorneys have while working in collaboration with law enforcement and other concerned parties in the investigation for prosecuting. There is such a tremendous responsibility set at play to strive for a safer community and try to make defendants accountable for their wrong actions.
I opted to work with criminal cases because here the goal is to serve individuals and the community in the best way possible. Here we strive for the ideal of justice which is not an easy task. I feel a sense of belonging in this office because the office’s paramount goal matches my personal goal which is to serve others.

What do you love about the office and job?

I do believe that people are the best asset in an organization. Well, there are very capable people in our office. As is the nature of life, some are gone, but amongst my current colleagues, I must say that I have too many favorites. How cool is that? Working in a place where you find answers to your questions, clarification to doubts, mistakes, or misconceptions, or simply any opportunity to help us gain knowledge and grow professionally. Everyone whom I’ve needed to work with has been very resourceful and kind. They all have shown me a spirit of solidarity and many of them have a great sense of humor which adds a special nuance. I feel very grateful for all of this.
Working in concord, comradeship, and with cooperation amongst team members reassures a pleasant work environment. I certainly value that a lot.
Also, there are a few fun events scheduled by the administration. Those are great moments to laugh, relax, and breath a new aroma. After that we come back renewed and stronger to face the challenges we encounter in our day to day operations.
We deal with complicated cases and we may feel pressure due to time and the volume of work, so some amusement and fun times help us release the stress and get the relief we need.
Thanks to the support I count with at this office, I can only envision very promising outcomes for my professional life in the coming years.

What do you do in your free time?

I would say that music, people, and color are the main characters in my free time. I like seasons, so I enjoy the activities that Mother Nature gifts me. To mention some, I would cite: biking and canoeing in summer, hiking in fall, drinking hot chocolate made with fresh cacao beans after coming from a walk on winter nights, gardening in spring.
Spirituality and quality family time fill my heart and my free moments. I find happiness and beauty in simplicity such as contemplating nature in its endless diversity, reading cards, letters and poetry, sleeping with a cozy blanket and I admire art in all its forms. But I also greatly enjoy sharing times with friends, going to the theater, and traveling with my family and exploring new adventures when we can.

As we gather with our loved ones to celebrate Thanksgiving, Haven Shoemaker, along with the entire Office of the State's Attorney, want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude.

Thanksgiving is a time for reflection, appreciation, and unity. It's a day when we pause to acknowledge the blessings in our lives, the strength of our community, and the dedication of those around us.

We are profoundly thankful for the trust and support of the community we serve. Your confidence in our commitment to justice fuels our efforts each day. Your partnership in making our neighborhoods safer and stronger is invaluable.

We also extend our deepest appreciation to the law enforcement officers, legal professionals, support staff, and all those who work tirelessly to ensure justice and uphold the law. Your dedication and hard work do not go unnoticed.

On this occasion, let us remember those who may be facing hardships and challenges. Let's extend a helping hand and share our blessings with those in need, embodying the true spirit of Thanksgiving.

May this holiday be filled with warmth, joy, and cherished moments with family and friends. Happy Thanksgiving from State's Attorney Haven Shoemaker and the entire team at the Office of the State's Attorney!

The Carroll County State's Attorney's office, following the success of supporting Terry's Tag and Title alongside numerous community members in setting records with "Bolt Bags," is once again embracing the holiday spirit of giving. Our office has already committed to supporting 20 families by selecting tags from the Giving Tree at Texas Roadhouse. If you'd like to participate in supporting a family, head over to Texas Roadhouse! Expressing gratitude through the act of giving is truly impactful!

October was Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This year the Carroll County State’s Attorney’s Office, led by William Sasse and Marley Tyler, partnered with local businesses and organizations to collect donations throughout October to create Bolt Bags for victims of domestic violence. These bags, which include many essentials that someone who is running from an abusive partner could use, were all donated to Springboard Community Services. A HUGE thank you goes out to Terry Smack of Terry’s Tag and Title who donated all of the bags in the photograph along with items for the bags. A HUGE thank also goes out to all of the agencies and groups who collected and donated to this cause including the Carroll County Public Library, Maryland State Police, Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, Hampstead Police Department, Westminster Police Department, Sykesville Police Department, Manchester Police Department, Mount Airy Police Department, Taneytown Police Department, Carroll County Parole and Probation, Republican Club of Carroll County, Circuit Court Clerks Office, and District Court Clerks Office. Our office stands with the victims of domestic violence and will ensure justice is served to any who abuse their loved ones.

PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
For more information please contact:
Office of the State’s Attorney for Carroll County
Phone: 410-386-2671
Fax: 410-876-9286
Email: [email protected]

Man convicted of First Degree Murder

Westminster, Maryland –November 17, 2023

Ravi Maganbhai Pansuriya, age 31, of Westminster, MD, was found guilty of First Degree Murder today by a jury in Carroll County Circuit Court. Judge Maria L. Oesterreicher ordered a pre-sentence investigation, for purposes of sentencing at a later date.
On October 2, 2022, a young man traveling along Medford Road outside of New Windsor found a dismembered body lying partially in the roadway. The body would later be identified as that of Dr. Maganbhai Pansuriya, age 59, of Westminster MD. The head and hands of Dr. Pansuriya were found by Sheriff’s detectives 3 days later in Morgan Run off of Old Washington Rd.
Dr. Pansuriya was reported missing earlier in the evening by his wife, who came home from work to find blood in various places in the garage, blood in the house, and signs of a struggle in the bathroom. Her son Ravi came home shortly thereafter driving the family truck. Investigators later found evidence of presumed blood and human tissue in the bed of the truck, as well as on various tools in the garage to include hedge trimmers, branch cutters, an axe, a pickaxe, a baseball bat and a rake. They also seized several knives. The Defendant’s pants also contained the blood and DNA of Dr. Pansuriya. The Defendant was caught on video at a local Walmart buying the wooden-handled axe that morning. The body was found partially wrapped in linens and a rug that were from the family home. The items were duct taped around the body, and Ravi Pansuriya’s fingerprint was found on the adhesive side of that duct tape. Dr. Stephanie Dean, the Interim Chief Medical Examiner for the State of Maryland, testified that Maganbhai Pansuriya was stabbed 45 times, suffered 9 cutting wounds, and had blunt force injuries of the head. He died of those blunt and sharp force injuries. Dismemberment of the head and hands was most consistent with being inflicted after death.
Carroll County State’s Attorney Haven Shoemaker commented on the guilty verdict, “Murders rarely occur in Carroll County, but this one stands out as exceptionally horrific and brutal, and because it was committed by a son against his father. We hope that this verdict brings some solace to the family and friends of Dr. Pansuriya during what must be a very traumatic time for them.”
The case was prosecuted by Melissa Hockensmith, Deputy State’s Attorney, and Elizabeth Camuti, Sr. Assistant State’s Attorney, and was investigated by Detective Devin Herold of the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office.

Texas Roadhouse, in partnership with the Carroll County State's Attorney's Office, proudly presents the Giving Tree at Texas Roadhouse. Come by and select an ornament containing gift ideas and sizes for children in need during this holiday season. If you're able to assist, there's no greater joy than helping others. For any inquiries, please reach out via email to Tim Weber at [email protected].

PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
For more information, please contact:

Office of the State’s Attorney for Carroll County
Phone: 410-386-2671
Fax: 410-876-9286
Email: [email protected]

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Westminster, Maryland – November 8, 2023

TANEYTOWN MAN SENTENCED TO A TOTAL OF
60 YEARS AND 2 DAYS FOR SHOOTING THAT OCCURRED NEAR TANEYTOWN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL ON FEBRUARY 10, 2023.

On August 17, 2023, a jury found Michael Joiner, 37 years old, guilty of multiple crimes of violence and reckless endangerment of minor children related to a shooting on February 10, 2023, that sent victim Ted Rill to Shock Trauma for several months and left him permanently injured.

Judge Fred S. Hecker, who presided over the trial, stated at the sentencing hearing today that he agreed with the jury verdict, emphasizing that the jury did not believe Joiner’s version of events in which he claimed self-defense. Judge Hecker referred to a video of the incident played at trial that made it appear as if Joiner and his co-defendant Kristen Naill were lying in wait for Mr. Rill and immediately pointed guns at him when he arrived. Judge Hecker pointed out that Mr. Rill was clearly unarmed, was not on the Defendant’s property, and posed no threat to Joiner, which would justify the use of lethal force.

On the count of First Degree Assault of Ted Rill, Judge Hecker issued a sentence of 25 years to the Division of Corrections (DOC), 10 years suspended, with 15 years to be served immediately. On the count of First-Degree Assault of Lester Rill, Judge Hecker sentenced Joiner to 15 years in the DOC to be served concurrently with the 25 years Joiner was sentenced for assaulting Ted Rill. On the count of Use of a Firearm in the Commission of a Crime of Violence for assaulting Ted Rill, Judge Hecker sentenced Joiner to 5 years to the DOC, consecutive to the previous counts, with an additional 5 years to be served concurrently for the Use of a Firearm in the assault of Lester Rill. Joiner was sentenced on two counts of Reckless Endangerment of two minor children present during the time of the shooting. Joiner received 5 years, all but 1 year suspended for each count.
Joiner was sentenced to a total of 60 years, with the non-suspended portion of active incarceration totaling 22 years and 2 days. Upon release, Joiner will be placed on a period of 5 years of supervised probation. Judge Hecker noted Joiner’s lack of remorse in imposing the sentence.

The Office of the State’s Attorney for Carroll County was represented by Deputy State’s Attorney Sandra L. Johnson and Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Alicia Kuhns. The lead investigator in the case was Maryland State Police (MSP) Corporal Theodore Buck. The MSP were aided by members of the Taneytown Police as well as members of the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office. The Middle Atlantic-Great Lakes Organized Crime Law Enforcement Network provided video enhancement services to assist the prosecution of the case.

Carroll County State’s Attorney Haven Shoemaker exclaimed, “The stiff sentence handed out to Joiner will give him plenty of time to think about the potentially deadly consequences of his despicable and reckless actions leading up to and including the shooting that happened right next to Northwest Middle School in broad daylight.”

As we observe Veterans Day, I am deeply grateful for the sacrifices made by our brave servicemen and women. As a veteran myself, I understand the commitment and valor it takes to defend our freedoms.

Today, let's reflect on the resilience of those who have worn the uniform and the profound impact they've had on our nation. Their selflessness and dedication inspire us all.

To my fellow veterans, thank you for your service. Your courage and sacrifice do not go unnoticed. As the State's Attorney and a proud veteran, I am committed to upholding the values you fought for and ensuring justice prevails.

On this Veterans Day, let us unite in gratitude and appreciation for those who have served and continue to serve our great country.

Haven Shoemaker
State's Attorney and Veteran 🇺🇸

Today marked the commencement of the 8th year of the Special OPTS program (Op**te Prevention and Teen Support) at the Carroll County State's Attorney's Office. Special OPTS is a dedicated initiative with the goal of increasing awareness about the dangers of substance use and providing essential resources for those in need. We were privileged to have the presence of notable individuals, including Heather DeWees, the Clerk of the Circuit Court and Coach of the Girls Manchester Valley Basketball team, Kenneth A Kiler, Carroll County Commissioner District 2, and Karl T. Streaker, the Director of Student Services.

(pictured individuals)
Front Row: Kenneth A Kiler (Carroll County Commissioner District 2), Heather S. DeWees (Clerk of the Circuit Court), Chris Tobias (CCPS), Haven Shoemaker (State’s Attorney), Megan Weber Frans (Carroll County Hospital Peer), Tim Weber (Carroll County State’s Attorney’s Office), Allen Culver (Senior State’s Attorney).

Back Row: Joe Guerra (Principal), Evan Burrill (Registered Nurse), and Karl Streaker (Director of Student Services).

The Carroll County State's Attorney's Office is the backbone of our local justice system, dedicated to upholding the law and safeguarding the rights of our community. With a steadfast commitment to fairness and justice, this office plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of Carroll County residents. They work tirelessly to prosecute those who violate the law, advocate for victims, and promote accountability within our community. Their dedication to seeking justice, supporting victims, and maintaining the rule of law is a testament to their unwavering commitment to the people they serve. The Carroll County State's Attorney's Office is an essential force for justice, making our community a safer and more just place for all its residents.

State's Attorney Haven Shoemaker, Community Education Liaison Tim Weber, and Counsel to the State's Attorney Michael Stewart had a fantastic Sunday at the Ravens Game, celebrating a well-deserved victory!

"The Carroll County State’s Attorney’s Office is teaming up with the Westminster Texas Roadhouse to support the children of Carroll County during this holiday season. This presents a wonderful chance to make a difference in our community and embrace the holiday spirit. In addition to contributing gifts for the children, you can also encourage your friends and family to visit Texas Roadhouse and select a tag from the giving tree. When you drop off your gifts, don't forget to speak with a Texas Roadhouse employee to receive a special thank-you gift from us!"

Investigators Unit
Dean A. Brewer, Chief Investigator
John Carhart, Deputy Chief Investigator
Allan Albaugh, Investigator
Dave Rolle, Investegator

The Investigations Unit of the Carroll County State‘s Attorney’s Office consists of four law enforcement professionals who conduct a wide range of criminal investigations in support of the State’s Attorney’s Office's mission of presenting the strongest cases possible with available resources. These investigations are aimed at gathering evidence in sometimes complex cases. Investigators are involved in locating witnesses, presenting evidence before the Grand Jury, and assisting other law enforcement agencies when requested. Investigators work closely with the Special Victims Unit, Economic Crimes Unit, and the Major Offender Unit, where expertise is needed in these sensitive cases. These four investigators participate in many of the outside community activities throughout the County, including presentations to service clubs, churches, and law enforcement agencies. You will find them at fall fest events, Carroll County Veterans Celebration, Seniors on the Go Expo, State’s Attorney’s Drug Vigil, and other events as called upon.