Wicomico County, MD – On March 16, 2023, following a two-day trial, a Wicomico County jury, presided over by the Honorable Karen M. Dean, Associate Judge of the Circuit Court for Wicomico County, convicted Prentice Harris, 57 years of age, of Sexual Abuse of a Minor, three counts of First-Degree Rape, four counts of Second-Degree Rape, and related offenses.
Sentencing was deferred pending receipt of a mandatory pre-sentence investigation and mental health assessment. Prentice Harris will remain in custody pending sentencing.
From January 2019 through December 2021, Harris sexually abused a minor who was under the age of 15.
Wicomico County State’s Attorney (SA) Jamie L. Dykes said, “Sexual violence inflicted upon children is egregious and deplorable. The victim displayed extraordinary courage in testifying at trial, and the jury’s thoughtful verdict will ensure that justice is served.”
SA Jamie L. Dykes commended Detective D. Schultz of the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office, who was the lead investigator, Child Protective Services, and members of the Child Advocacy Center for their work in the investigation. SA Dykes also commended Assistant State’s Attorney Michael Calabrese, who prosecuted the case.