Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich issued the following statement Thursday regarding the sentencing of Raphael Mayorga. Mayorga, 21, of Frederick, was sentenced to 22 years and 60 days, the maximum allowed by law. The sentence stems from an October 18, 2023, crash on I-270 that resulted in MCPD Sergeant Pat Kepp losing both legs.
In April, a Montgomery County jury found Mayorga guilty of second-degree assault, failure to remain at the scene of an accident causing serious bodily injury, failure to stop at the scene, and multiple counts of fleeing from police. The charges stem from a crash that occurred in the early morning hours of October 18, 2023, in the northbound lanes of I-270. Mayorga was driving a Dodge Challenger at speeds exceeding 160 miles per hour when officers attempted to stop him using spike strips. Instead of stopping, Mayorga veered left and struck Sgt. Kepp, who had previously warned him about his reckless driving.
Following the impact, Mayorga did not brake and continued driving until officers deployed a second set of spike strips further north on I-270, which finally disabled his vehicle. He then exited the car and attempted to flee on foot but was quickly apprehended by responding officers.
For Immediate Release: Wednesday 27 August
Today’s sentencing is a reminder of both the devastation caused by reckless driving and the extraordinary resilience of Sgt. Pat Kepp. Sgt. Kepp endured an unthinkable ordeal when he was nearly killed in the line of duty, losing both of his legs to someone’s reckless and sociopathic actions. Yet even through this tragedy, he continues to serve Montgomery County with strength, dignity, and a deep commitment to public safety. His courage and character are nothing short of heroic.I appreciate that the judge recognized the severity of the crime of injuring an officer and gave an appropriately lengthy sentence. I also want to thank the Maryland General Assembly and Gov. Wes Moore for passing the ‘Pat Kepp Act,’ which increases penalties for serial reckless drivers. This law stands as a testament to Sgt. Kepp’s bravery and ensures that those who endanger innocent lives will face stronger consequences.
Acts like the one committed here are unthinkable. People who treat our laws, our communities, and the lives of others with such disregard must be held fully accountable. On behalf of the residents of Montgomery County, I extend my deepest gratitude to Sgt. Kepp and his family for their sacrifice and perseverance, and to our State partners who worked to turn this tragedy into meaningful change that will protect lives across Maryland.
