On Tuesday, February 11, 2025, Lionel Evans, who had previously been facing multiple second-degree charges, pled guilty to reckless endangerment for his role in an incident that took place at the Berlin Activities Depot last August. Thomas Maronick Jr., the lawyer in Mr. Evans’ case, has been vocal about this case, and expressed to OC Today-Dispatch the next steps, including keeping this charge off his client’s record.
About the Case and Charges Filed
Mr. Evans was previously indicated on charges of second-degree assault, second-degree child abuse, and reckless endangerment after he was accused of placing a child within his supervision at risk. According to police footage, Mr. Evans was shown chasing after a young child after they ran off toward the playground. He had grabbed the child by the back of their neck, where they then fell and later had red marks and bruising.
Immediately following the investigation, Mr. Evans was removed from his position. Along with his termination, he was also suspended from USA Gymnastics. The Berlin Activities Depot offers a variety of activities for children, grades K-13, including competitive gymnastics, tumbling, and other recreational activities. Mr. Evans worked there as a gymnastics coach for teens—he was not usually responsible for supervising young children. Several parents with children actively enrolled with the Berlin Activities Depot showed their support for Mr. Evans as the case moved forward.
In communication with the judge, Mr. Maronick said, “This was one incident where Mr. Lionel went out to discipline a child and it went too far.”
Entering A Guilty Plea
Mr. Maronick asked the judge to consider probation before justice, stating that a criminal record would impair his client’s ability to get a job in the future.
In mid-February 2025, Worcester County Circuit Court Judge Brian Shockley sentenced Mr. Evans to 18 months, all of which but one day was suspended—credit for this day has been received due to the time Mr. Evans already served in jail. While he is under his five year probationary period, Mr. Evans is to have no contact with the victim or supervise any children 12 and under. He was also instructed to enroll in an anger management course and pay a fine.
Mr. Evans has 90 days to request a modification, which both he and Mr. Maronick plan to do. “While I’m pleased that my client doesn’t have to return to jail…I’m hopeful we’ll obtain a result that keeps it off his record,” Maronick said in a statement to the press following the sentencing. Mr. Maronick recognized and told the court that his client accepts his role in this case and takes full accountability for his wrongdoings. You can learn more about this case and others Mr. Maronick is involved in or has commented on here.
Are You Facing Criminal Charges in Maryland? You Don’t Have to Face Them Alone—Contact Maronick Law Today for a Free Case Evaluation
Cases like Mr. Evans are not isolated. If you found yourself at the wrong place at the wrong time, you don’t have to navigate these uncharted waters alone. At Maronick Law, we are dedicated to fighting for our clients and providing aggressive criminal defense representation to those throughout the state, including Towson, Baltimore City, Catonsville, Milford Mill, and Prince Frederick.
Contact Maronick Law today at 443-351-6657 for a free case evaluation. We’re here to help you defend your rights and preserve your freedom.
Disclaimer: This blog is intended for informational purposes only and does not establish an attorney-client relationship. It should not be considered as legal advice. For personalized legal assistance, please consult our team directly.