LEONARDTOWN, Md. – State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that Leroy Christopher Neal, 50, of Mechanicsville, Maryland, has been sentenced to LIFE plus 20 years in prison, with LIFE plus 5 years of active incarceration for first-degree murder and related firearm charges.
On December 5, 2025, after a 5-day jury trial, a St. Mary’s County jury convicted Neal of killing a 46-year-old St. Mary’s County man.
On November 4, 2023, deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to a liquor store in Great Mills to find a man suffering from gunshot wounds to his chest and arm. An investigation revealed that the victim had been lured to a secluded area of the parking lot at the rear of the building backing up to the wood line before being shot. He later succumbed to his injuries.
“The Defendant executed the victim in cold blood by shooting him in the back as he tried to escape,” said State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling. “This was a merciless and premeditated killing that stole a man’s life and devastated his family. For years, his loved ones have carried the weight of this unimaginable loss while waiting for justice and accountability. My heart remains with them, and I hope this outcome brings them a measure of peace and closure.”
Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Alena Mosier and Assistant State’s Attorney Savanna Duncan prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.
Detective Kortnie Marsch of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office was the lead investigator.
The Honorable Joseph Stanalonis presided over the case.
Got a tip or photo? Text us at 888-871-NEWS (6397) or email news@thebaynet.com.
Join The BayNet Membership for exclusive perks and zero ads.
Don’t miss a story—sign up for our newsletter!