On Tuesday, Daniel Beckwitt was resentenced to ten years in prison, with all but five suspended, and an additional five years of supervised probation upon release for the 2017 death of Askia Khafra.
Beckwitt was originally sentenced to nine years in prison for second-degree “depraved heart” murder and involuntary manslaughter, but the “depraved heart” conviction was overturned by a state appeals court in January 2021.
He will also need to complete 250 hours of community service. Beckwitt will receive credit for time served, which is nearly three years.
Khafra died after he could not escape Beckwitt’s basement during a fire. Khafra was working for Beckwitt to dig secret underground tunnels beneath Beckwitt’s home on Danbury Rd. in Bethesda. The tunnels were part of an elaborate underground bunker that Beckwitt was building for protection in case of a nuclear attack.
Beckwitt had Khafra work in the tunnels for days at a time and would lower a bucket to him to use the bathroom, according to NBC 4. Beckwith, a millionaire stock trader, is a known conspiracy theorist and computer hacker.
“Our thoughts remain with the Khafra family who continues to grieve the loss of their son, Askia, every day. Today Judge Schweitzer sentenced at the top of the Maryland sentencing guidelines for a manslaughter charge. We respect the sentence and the legal process that brought us here. As previously stated, we are pleased that the Maryland Court of Appeals, the highest Court in Maryland, affirmed the conviction on the critical charge of Involuntary Manslaughter in the case of State v. Daniel Beckwitt. I am proud of the work my office did on this incredibly complex and challenging legal case and I thank Assistant State’s Attorney, Marybeth Ayers, along with Montgomery County Police Detective, Michelle Smith, and Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Captain, Erin Worth, for their tireless efforts in this matter,” said State’s Attorney John McCarthy.
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FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.
Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.
As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.
Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.
LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!
MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME
2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES
KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!
