Mother Charged with First-Degree Murder After Infant’s Death in Harford County

Press release photo as seen in the Harford County announcement.

Harford County Mother Charged with Murder Following Infant’s Death

Authorities in Harford County have charged a mother, Maya Dennis, age 32, with first-degree murder and child abuse in the death of her 5½-month-old baby girl. The tragic incident unfolded after the baby was hospitalized with severe injuries, including multiple skull fractures and brain bleeds.

Details of the Investigation

On December 29, 2024, detectives from the Harford County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) Criminal Investigations Division responded to Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center following a report from Child Protective Services (CPS) of suspected child abuse. Medical staff revealed the baby had been brought in by ambulance with critical injuries, including:

• Multiple skull fractures

• Brain bleeds

• A fractured leg

• Other life-threatening injuries

The child’s injuries prompted an immediate investigation. Detectives executed a court-ordered search of the family’s home on the 200 block of Mayberry Drive in Aberdeen, Maryland. Investigators from the Forensic Services Unit assisted in the search, while detectives conducted interviews with potential witnesses and suspects.

During these interviews, inconsistent accounts emerged regarding how the infant sustained her injuries. Evidence eventually pointed to Dennis as the sole caregiver at the time of the incident. Tragically, the baby succumbed to her injuries on December 31, 2024.

Arrest and Charges

Following the child’s death, Dennis made statements admitting responsibility for the injuries. She was subsequently charged with:

• First-degree murder

• First-degree child abuse

Dennis was arrested without incident by the HCSO Warrant Apprehension Unit at Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center. She has been transported to the Harford County Detention Center, where she awaits her initial court appearance before a District Court Commissioner.

Ongoing Investigation

The Harford County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that the investigation is still active. No further details are being released at this time.

Authorities are urging anyone with information related to this case to contact Detective K. Smith at 443-409-3576.

Community Impact

This heartbreaking case has sent shockwaves through the Harford County community, sparking conversations about the need for vigilance and intervention in suspected child abuse cases. Child Protective Services and local authorities continue to stress the importance of reporting any signs of abuse to prevent similar tragedies.