BALTIMORE COUNTY, Md. (WBFF) — The trial for the killings of a 15-year-old girl and her 9-year-old brother in Gwynn Oak is now scheduled for Aug. 9, 2027.
Keith James Junior, 16, appeared in person for a hearing at Baltimore County Circuit Court Friday, where his defense attorney asked the judge for more time to prepare for trial.
James was previously set to be tried in January 2027 following his arrest this past summer.
Defense attorney Brian Thompson spoke after waiving James’ bond hearing back in August.
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“I would ask everyone to reserve judgment, afford my client his constitutional right to the presumption of innocence, innocence and reserve judgment until the actual evidence is presented in a courtroom,” Thompson said.
James was arrested about two weeks after Gigi and her brother Stevie were found fatally shot inside their home.
Investigators linked James, who they believe was in a relationship with Gigi, to the crime through witness statements, cell phone data, surveillance footage, ballistic evidence and his own statement to police, according to court documents.
Authorities have not confirmed a specific motive.
The murders deeply affected the Gwynn Oak community and beyond.
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During funeral services, hundreds of people wore black and yellow, the siblings’ favorite colors, as they were laid to rest.
The family wrote, “Your kindness has brought us comfort beyond words.”
James is facing five criminal counts.
Each first-degree murder charge carries a possible life sentence, but a legal expert explained that because James is a juvenile, state law prevents a sentence of life without the possibility of parole.
“In the State of Maryland, we have the juvenile restoration. And what that provided for is that juveniles were no longer eligible to receive sentences of life imprisonment without the possibility of parole,” said Jeremy Eldridge, legal expert.
WBFF will continue to follow developments in this case as it moves toward trial.
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