(Update) Suspect Wanted for Murder of MPD Officer Now in Custody

Updated April 23, 2013 at 8:05 pm: News conference announcing the arrest of the suspect wanted in the murder of Joseph Newell will be held at 8:45 pm. 

Updated April 23, 2013 at 7:30 pm.  The suspect wanted for the murder of Joseph Newell has turned himself in.  He is currently in custody at PGPD headquarters.  PGPD will hold a press conference this evening, details to be announced shortly.


Video of news conference: PGPD Obtains Warrant for Murder of MPD Officer.

The Prince George’s County Police Department has obtained a warrant in connection with the murder of a Metropolitan Police Department officer.  The suspect is identified as 27-year-old Antwan Rayvon James of the 6700 block of Green Moss Drive in Upper Marlboro.  He is the stepson of the victim.  The PGPD’s K-9 Section and other specialized teams are currently searching for James.

Antwan Rayvon James

The victim is identified as 46-year-old Joseph Burrough Newell. He joined the Metropolitan Police Department in 1989.  He was off-duty at the time of the incident. He also lived in the home on Green Moss Drive.

On April 22, 2013, at approximately 8:00 pm, patrol officers were called to the 6700 block of Green Moss Drive for the report of a shooting.  Upon arrival, patrol officers found Newell suffering from apparent gunshot wounds.  He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The preliminary investigation reveals the murder stemmed from a dispute over yard work.  The suspect is described as a black male, 6'0'' and 170 pounds.  James was last seen wearing a white t-shirt, blue jeans and black boots.  He is believed to be armed with a gun and is considered dangerous.  If anyone sees James, they are asked to immediately call police and not approach the suspect.  

The PGPD will hold a news conference today.

Who:    Assistant Chief Kevin Davis, Prince George’s County Police Department

              Assistant Chief Peter Newsham, Metropolitan Police Department

When:  TODAY

Time:    11:45 am

Where:  Police Services Complex

               7600 Barlowe Road

               Palmer Park, MD

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 wishing to remain anonymous may call Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477), text, “PGPD plus your message” to CRIMES (274637) on your cell phone or go to: http://www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/police/ and submit a tip online.