PGPD Arrests Second Suspect in Murder of Sharod James

Joshua Jermaine Benton

The Prince George’s County Police Department has arrested a second suspect in the November 2012 murder of Sharod Darnell James.  The suspect is identified as 23-year-old Joshua Jermaine Benton of the 4800 block of Benning Road in Southeast Washington.

On November 16, 2012, at approximately 11:50 pm, patrol officers responded to the 5600 block of Martin Luther King Jr. Highway for a report of a shooting. Upon arrival, they found James, of the 2200 block of Savannah Terrace in Southeast Washington, suffering from gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at a local hospital.

On November 21, 2012, officers arrested 24 year-old Lawson Mahdi, of the 13000 block of Bishops Bequest Road in Upper Marlboro in connection with this murder. Mahdi was charged with second degree murder and related charges.

On March 22, 2013, police officers arrested Benton without incident in the 4500 block of Douglas Street in Northeast Washington. He is being charged with first degree murder and related charges.  Benton is currently being held in Washington D.C., awaiting extradition.

The preliminary investigation suggests the murder is drug related.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to call the Prince George’s County Police Department’s Homicide Unit at 301-772-4925. Callers can remain anonymous by calling Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477). You may also text “PGPD plus your tip” to CRIMES (274637) on your cell phone or go to http://www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/police/  and submit a tip online. Crime Solvers is offering a Cash Reward up to $25,000 for tips that lead to an arrest and indictment in this case.