Guilty plea in Columbia mall stabbing
A Howard County man pleaded guilty yesterday to attempted second-degree murder in the stabbing of a teenager after a drug deal went sour outside a Columbia mall this year.
Bernardo Leconte, 18, of Columbia, could face 30 years in prison. However, prosecutors recommended a sentence of 20 years, with all but 15 suspended. State sentencing guidelines suggest a sentence of five to 12 years.
The near-fatal stabbing, which occurred on a weekday afternoon when the mall bustled with shoppers, shocked Columbia residents unaccustomed to violent crime in the Town Center. The crime prompted the mall operator, General Growth Properties, to launch a review of security measures.
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I was working at the JCPenney store when the victim ran inside for help. He collapsed to the floor. He repeatedly asked am I going to die. At that time I thought he was going to die. So, I did the only thing I could. I prayed for the boys life. By the grace of God he lived. I will never forget that day. When the medics rolled him over, and we could see his organs hanging out. It was the most gruesome thing I ever saw in my life. I hope everyone learns from this. As Regan would say “Just say No”.
Comment by C Kirby — September 13, 2008 @ 1:05 am