Former Resident Advisor at Juvenile Services Facility Convicted of 2nd Degree Assault

Image courtesy Wicomico County State’s Attorney

An Elkridge, Maryland man has been convicted of second degree assault in Wicomico County Circuit Court. Court records show that the offense occurred while 30 year old Lawenzo Clarke was working as a Resident Advisor at the Lower Eastern Shore Children’s Center, where he was responsible for the safety and supervision of the youth detained in that Juvenile Services facility. A sentencing date has not yet been determined.

Additional information from the Wicomico County State’s Attorney:

While on duty on September 28, 2024, Clarke used an unreasonable and unlawful amount of force when, without justification, he picked up a detained youth and forcefully slammed him to the ground. The youth struck his head and neck and lost consciousness for a period of time. Subsequent medical imaging revealed that the youth had suffered a displaced clavicle fracture, as well as a stable fracture to the transverse process of his first thoracic vertebra.

State’s Attorney Jamie Dykes said, “This conviction sends a clear message that the abuse of power by those entrusted to care for and protect young people in custody is unacceptable, indeed criminal. Children in custody have a right to a safe environment while under the supervision of the State and we remain committed to holding accountable those who use their authority to harm others.”