MECHANICSVILLE, Md. – A St. Mary’s County jury has convicted Christopher Michael Sherman, 36, of Mechanicsville, Maryland, on two counts of felony first-degree assault and two counts of using a firearm in the commission of a violent crime. The verdict follows a two-day trial in which jurors reviewed testimony and evidence related to the June 18, 2024, incident that led to Sherman’s arrest.
Sherman was initially charged on July 15, 2024, after a violent altercation at his residence on Yowaiski Mill Road. Court records indicate that the dispute involved two adults and two juveniles and escalated into a dangerous confrontation where Sherman fired a gun near the victims. The grand jury indicted him on twelve counts, including four counts of first-degree assault, four counts of reckless endangerment, and four counts of use of a firearm in the commission of a violent crime. Prosecutors emphasized that Sherman’s actions created a substantial risk of serious injury or death and left a lasting impact on the community’s sense of security.
The altercation began as a verbal dispute between Sherman and his neighbors over their dogs but quickly turned violent. According to investigators, Sherman brandished a firearm in front of the victims’ children and ultimately discharged it during the argument. The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded swiftly to the scene, leading to his immediate arrest.
State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling expressed gratitude to the jury for their careful deliberation and emphasized that the conviction reinforces the county’s commitment to prosecuting violent offenders. She noted that the successful outcome of the case demonstrates the importance of holding individuals accountable for reckless firearm use and acts of violence within the community.
Sherman, who has a prior history of violent behavior, remains in custody at the St. Mary’s County Detention Center, where he is being held without bail. Prosecutors argued that his past conduct and the nature of his offenses indicate a significant risk to public safety. He now faces a maximum sentence of 90 years in prison.
The case was prosecuted by Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Alena Mosier, with Detective Andrew Burgess of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office leading the investigation. The trial was presided over by Judge Joseph M. Stanalonis.
The investigation into Sherman’s actions remains ongoing as authorities continue gathering evidence and speaking with witnesses. The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of domestic violence and firearm-related offenses and highlights the importance of swift and decisive legal action.
Sherman’s sentencing date has not yet been scheduled.
