LEONARDTOWN, Md., June 18, 2025 — John Otha Dickens, Jr., a 35-year-old resident of Lexington Park, Maryland, has been sentenced to life in prison with 58 years of active incarceration for a series of domestic violence offenses, including attempted first-degree murder. The sentencing, announced by State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling, follows a St. Mary’s County jury’s conviction on November 21, 2024, for a violent attack on his former intimate partner in February 2023.
The February 2023 incident involved Dickens slashing the victim’s neck with a knife, causing life-threatening injuries that required immediate emergency medical treatment. The attack occurred while Dickens was out on release pending sentencing for prior assaults against the same victim in 2021, revealing a disturbing pattern of violence. The victim, whose identity remains confidential, survived but continues to face physical and emotional challenges from the ordeal.
Judge Joseph Stanalonis presided over the sentencing hearing, imposing a life sentence for attempted first-degree murder with 40 years active incarceration, to be served consecutively with sentences for second-degree assault (8 years active), another second-degree assault (10 years with 5 active), and third-degree burglary (10 years with 5 active). The cumulative sentence ensures Dickens will remain incarcerated for at least 58 years.
“Dickens had a lengthy history of violence against women as a domestic violence offender,” said State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling. “This sentence demonstrates our office’s commitment to stopping intimate partner violence in our County. With this sentence, I hope our survivor can find some solace knowing that her abuser will no longer be able to harm her or her family.”
Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Alena Mosier prosecuted the case, representing the citizens of St. Mary’s County. The investigation was led by Corporal Christopher DiToto and Trooper First Class Michael Posch of the Maryland State Police, alongside Detective Kortnie Marsch and Deputy Bianca Salas of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office. Their efforts were critical in securing the conviction and ensuring justice was served.
The case highlights the persistent challenge of domestic violence and the legal system’s role in addressing it. Dickens’ repeated offenses, despite prior charges, underscore the difficulties in managing high-risk offenders. The jury’s conviction was based on evidence including medical records and witness testimonies, which painted a clear picture of the attack’s severity.
Sterling’s office has emphasized that the sentence serves as a deterrent to others and a commitment to protecting survivors. The outcome reflects a collaborative effort among law enforcement, prosecutors, and the judiciary to hold perpetrators accountable. For the St. Mary’s County community, the case is a reminder of the need for continued vigilance and support for domestic violence survivors.
The sentencing marks a significant step in addressing intimate partner violence, offering hope to survivors and reinforcing the message that such crimes will face severe consequences. As the community moves forward, the focus remains on prevention, support services, and ensuring safety for all residents.
