The indictment charges him with a murder in 2019.
Frederick, Md (KM) A Frederick man has been served with a 50-count indictment. Lavante Darnell Nash, 27, is charged with 1st-degree murder, attempted 1st-degree murder, retaliation against a witness, use of a firearm in a crime of violence, illegal possession of a regulated firearm, 1st-degree assault, conspiracy, distribution of narcotics, possession with intent to distribute narcotics and participation in a criminal gang.
State’s Attorney Charlie Smith says Nash is charged with the shooting death of Gregory Knight on June 27th, 2019 at the Sunset Apartments on Columbine Drive. “The defendant is alleged to have distributed cocaine to Mr. Knight in May of 2017. Mr. Knight was to appear in court as a witness against Mr. Nash, regarding those resulting drug charges. But obviously never made; was shot and killed,” Smith says.
In addition, Smith says Nash is charged with two gang-related shootings on Market Street in downtown Frederick on August 31st and September 8th. “He is charged with distribution of CDS {Controlled Dangerous Substances} during those months as well. He’s alleged to be a member the PA 32 criminal gang, which is also what we call a DTO–a Drug Trafficking Organization–based here in the city of Frederick. They operate in surrounding areas as well,” he says.
Smith says the indictment was returned by the Grand Jury on January 24th, 2020, and was kept under seal until it was served to Nash.
Nash was in Frederick County Circuit Court on Thursday afternoon, where he waived his right to a bond review hearing. He’s currently being held without bond.
Smith says this indictment resulted from a six-month investigation by the Frederick Police and the State’s Attorney’s Office, which had three prosecutors handling this case.
The Frederick Police say this investigation remains ongoing, as detectives look into all incidents and involvements of other parties.
By Kevin McManus