A Baltimore man has pleaded guilty in a long-running murder-for-hire conspiracy that led to the tragic killing of an innocent woman in 2016. The case, which unfolded over nearly a decade, culminated Monday in federal court with 43-year-old Matthew Hightower admitting to using a firearm in a violent crime that resulted in the death of Latrina Ashburne.
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Federal prosecutors say Hightower orchestrated a plan from jail to have a federal witness killed in retaliation for her cooperation in a criminal investigation. The target had provided authorities with information about Hightower’s alleged role in both a health care fraud operation and the murder of David Wutoh. As part of his effort to silence the witness, Hightower used jail communications to direct others to carry out the killing.
The plan went horribly wrong. Ashburne, who lived next door to the intended target and closely resembled her in age and appearance, was mistaken for the witness. She was fatally shot while getting into her car. Authorities have already convicted Davon Carter, the shooter, and Clifton Mosley, who assisted in the plot.
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Hightower now faces up to life in prison. Under the terms of the plea agreement, prosecutors will recommend a 60-year sentence, to be served in addition to his current prison term for Wutoh’s murder. The case highlights ongoing efforts by federal and local agencies to protect witnesses and pursue justice in violent criminal conspiracies.
Article by multiple contributors, based upon information from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Maryland press release.
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Kudos for the reporting on “No Kings Day” public rally. Bo