Frederick Murder Suspect Now Faces Extradition
FREDERICK, Md. (AP) -- It could be weeks before a man accused of killing a Frederick woman is brought back to Maryland to face murder charges.
Melvin Smith, 27, was apprehended Thursday in McKeesport, Pa., a suburb of Pittsburgh. He faces a first-degree murder charge in the July 8 slaying of Tranice Richardson. Smith had been romantically involved with Richardson and fathered at least one of her four children.
Smith was convicted of manslaughter in 2000.
Frederick police spokesman Clark Pennington says Smith could delay his return to Maryland by fighting extradition. But he says it's unlikely anything will prevent Smith from being brought back.
Frederick County State's Attorney Charlie Smith says his office plans to present the case to a grand jury as soon as possible once Melvin Smith returns to Maryland.
(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
