La Plata, MD – Daniel Fekadu Ayele, 20 of Alexandria, VA, came a long way to get into trouble. Ayele entered an Alford Plea Wednesday, March 15 before Charles County Circuit Court Judge Amy J. Bragunier for two counts of possession of child pornography.
According to Charles County Assistant States Attorney Tiffany Campbell, an officer from the La Plata Police Department was called to a La Plata residence May 16, 2016.
“Police investigation revealed that the defendant was a person known to the 13-year-old victim,” Campbell said. “He had come to her residence and wanted to come inside. He showed images of sexual content. She did not want to. He had unconsented sexual contact with her.
“The La Plata Police made contact with the defendant,” she added. “He went down to the La Plata Police Station and turned himself in. He was read his Miranda rights.”
Campbell said police obtained a search warrant and the defendant’s cell phone and tablet were seized. She said evidence would have revealed, if the case had gone to trial, various text messages, photographs of young girls between the ages of 14 and 17.
“There were photos and videos of an obscene nature,” the prosecutor said.
“He should have an evaluation,” she added.
Bragunier explained to Ayele that by entering an Alford Plea he is not admitting guilt but acknowledges that the state has enough evidence to prosecute him had the case gone to trial. The defendant told the judge he understood.
The judge set a pre-sentencing evaluation in place and told the defendant he could remain free on bond until his sentencing date of May 4.
Contact Joseph Norris at joe.norris@thebaynet.com