During a sentencing hearing in a federal courtroom in Baltimore, Jessica Angelini spoke on behalf of her husband, Baltimore Police Officer Steven Angelini, who pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy to distribute drugs and possession of a firearm. Despite initially being angry and upset when her husband was arrested, Jessica Angelini expressed her belief in his recovery from drug addiction and his determination to be a good man. U.S. District Judge Ellen L. Hollander acknowledged the seriousness of his crimes but also recognized his remorse and efforts at rehabilitation, sentencing him to two and a half years in federal prison.
Deputy Public Prosecutor Christine Goo argued for a five-year prison sentence, emphasizing the gravity of Angelini’s actions as a police officer who violated his oath. Angelini, who joined the Baltimore Police Department in 2006, remains suspended without pay. His attorney, Assistant Federal Public Defender Sedira Banan, advocated for a two-year sentence, framing Angelini’s case through the lens of addiction and highlighting his progress in recovery. Angelini’s family members, including his daughter Siena and brother Marco, spoke about the impact of his arrest and prosecution on their lives.
Before being sentenced, Angelini addressed the court, expressing regret for his actions and acknowledging the consequences for his family. He attributed his descent into drug addiction to a work-related injury and emphasized the need for support and treatment for law enforcement officers struggling with substance abuse. Angelini concluded by expressing a desire to share his story and assist authorities upon his release from prison.
Throughout the hearing, Judge Hollander commended the defense’s presentation and referenced the case of Hunter Biden as an example of the widespread issue of addiction affecting various communities. As Angelini blew kisses to his family and friends in the courtroom, he expressed love for them, underscoring the human aspect of law enforcement officers and their susceptibility to addiction.
In summary, the case of Steven Angelini, a Baltimore Police Officer convicted of drug-related charges, underscores the challenges faced by law enforcement officers dealing with addiction. The sentencing hearing highlighted his journey towards recovery, the impact on his family, and the importance of rehabilitation and support for individuals in similar situations. Despite the gravity of his crimes, Angelini’s remorse and commitment to rehabilitation played a significant role in the judge’s sentencing decision, reflecting a nuanced approach to addressing substance abuse within the law enforcement community.
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https://www.thebaltimorebanner.com/community/criminal-justice/steven-angelini-baltimore-police-officer-drugs-biker-B4OQSLH5NNFHJGBN4ZIW5CULWY/
