Woodlawn Man Guilty of Grossly Negligent Manslaughter

Annapolis, MD -- Anne Arundel County State's Attorney Wes Adams announced today that Johnathan Derek Simms, 32, of Woodlawn, was found guilty of grossly negligent manslaughter and related charges by Anne Arundel County Circuit Court Judge Ronald A. Silkworth.

"Mr. Simms displayed a selfish disregard for the safety of others on the day of this collision, and continues to refuse to accept responsibility for the tragic loss of life caused by his own cowardly actions," said Anne Arundel County State's Attorney Wes Adams. "I'm grateful to Judge Silkworth for seeing past this man's excuses, and providing justice to the victim's family."

On April 4, 2016, Maryland State Police attempted to initiate a traffic stop on Johnathan Simms, who was traveling 73 mph in a 55 mph zone. Rather than stop his vehicle, Simms evaded police and accelerated to speeds in excess of 90 mph.

Police pursued Simms for approximately 3.7 miles before he turned his vehicle down the wrong side of the road and continued moving at a high rate of speed. While traveling northbound in the southbound lanes of Aviation Boulevard, Simms struck an oncoming vehicle.  

After the collision, Maryland State Police attempted to render aid to the operator of the struck vehicle. However, the victim ultimately succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash.

Simms was found guilty of grossly negligent manslaughter, criminally negligent manslaughter, fleeing and eluding resulting in death, fleeing and eluding, reckless driving, and negligent driving. Sentencing is scheduled for January 23, 2018.

Judge Ronald A. Silkworth presided over the case. Assistant State's Attorney Michael McGraw prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of Anne Arundel County.