DARNELL JENKINS SENTENCED TO LIFE PLUS 65 YEARS

Wicomico County, MD - In a decisive move against child abuse and sexual offenses, a verdict was delivered on November 1, 2024, by the Honorable S. James Sarbanes, Administrative Judge of the Circuit Court in Wicomico County, Maryland, where he sentenced Darnell Jenkins, 36-years of age, to life in prison plus sixty-five (65) years.

A thorough presentation and examination of facts marked the three-day trial culminating in this verdict. Jenkins was convicted of two counts of Sexual Abuse of a Minor, Rape in the Second Degree, two counts of Attempted Rape in the Second Degree, and three counts of Sexual Offense in the Third Degree. The crimes were committed between 2019 and 2020 against a minor who was under 9 years old in his household.

Reacting to the ruling, Wicomico County State's Attorney Jamie L. Dykes underscored the importance of the court process in bringing such heinous crimes to light. Dykes stressed that this case and its outcome serve as "important examples that sexual abuse will never be tolerated in Wicomico County."

SA Dykes applauded the bravery shown by the survivor in all stages of this case. Hopefully, the sentence passed on Jenkins will reassure survivors and reassert the community's commitment to their protection and welfare.

Credit must also be given to the diligent work of various agencies in bringing the case to a successful conclusion. Detective Rockwell of the Salisbury Police Department, Child Protective Services and the Department of Social Services, and members of the Wicomico County Child Advocacy Center all played crucial roles in the investigation.

Further commendation was extended to Senior Assistant State's Attorney Michael Calabrese, who effectively prosecuted the case, ensuring justice was served.