Sentencing of Baltimore mayor set for Jan. 21; judge to hear arguments for new trial first

Sentencing date set for Baltimore mayor

BALTIMORE — A judge has set a Jan. 21 sentencing date for Baltimore Mayor Sheila Dixon.

The Democrat was convicted last week on a misdemeanor embezzlement charge. Jurors found she took gift cards donated to the city for distribution to needy families.

Once Dixon is sentenced, she could be suspended from office under Maryland law. But Dixon’s lawyers intend to file a motion for a new trial, and Judge Dennis Sweeney has scheduled a Jan. 6 hearing on that.

Jurors deliberated for more than six days before reaching a verdict. Dixon was acquitted of three other counts, including felony theft, and the jury couldn’t reach a verdict on a fifth count.