Southeast Baltimore— Darrell Johns was convicted of more than a dozen counts related to a 2016 armed home invasion of an elderly couple in Patterson Park.
Assistant State’s Attorneys (ASA) Brandis Marsh and Michael Turiello of the Major Investigations Unit (MIU) prosecuted the case.
On May 4, 2016, at approximately 9:30 p.m., John and Rosalie Sellman were returning home from an evening out at dinner. As the two approached their front door, a suspect – later identified as the Darrell Johns – walked quickly up behind them and pushed the elderly couple into the living room of their home.
Once inside the home, Johns displayed a long barrel revolver and demanded money. Mr. Sellman gave Johns his wallet, and Mrs. Sellman gave Johns her flip phone and $100.00 that she had on her person. Then, Johns demanded more money and asked, “Where is the safe?”
Mrs. Sellman told Johns that there was no safe. Johns then pointed the gun at Mr. Sellman and stated “I’m going to kill your wife.” Again, Mrs. Sellman said, “There is no more money.” Johns then turned around and fled the home through the front door.
Investigators later recovered surveillance video of Johns using the victims’ credit cards. Cellphone records revealed that Johns had called several associates and family members from the stolen flip phone.
At trial, the State called several eye witnesses to testify against Johns.
“I hope that the citizens of Baltimore appreciate how important their participation is in helping prosecutors obtain justice,” said ASA Turiello. “Victories like the one today don’t happen without them.”
Johns faces 95 years in prison for his crimes. He is scheduled for sentencing November 14, 2017.
“The facts of this case are absolutely despicable, and I am happy that the police were able to gather the evidence necessary for our prosecutors to secure a conviction that will hold the defendant accountable for his crimes,” said State’s Attorney Marilyn Mosby. “We will continue to prosecute those with no code of ethics, who choose to terrorize our most vulnerable neighbors, to the fullest extent of the law.”
