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Cambridge Today
By the People, for the People
Maryland Man Sues State After Acquittal in 2021 Murder Case
Key'Marion Ennals claims prosecutors withheld key evidence during investigation of 2021 homicide
Published on Mar. 6, 2026
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A federal lawsuit filed by Key'Marion Ennals alleges prosecutorial misconduct in his 2021 murder case, which led to him spending over 20 months in jail before being acquitted. Ennals claims prosecutors withheld exculpatory evidence pointing to another suspect, Deaveon Johnson, who had confessed to the crime. The state has filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit, citing prosecutorial immunity, but Ennals is seeking damages for emotional distress, lost income, and other impacts of his wrongful incarceration.
Why it matters
This case highlights the growing trend of wrongful prosecution lawsuits across the U.S., often centered around claims of prosecutorial misconduct such as evidence suppression and coercive interrogation tactics. The outcome could set a precedent for holding prosecutors more accountable for their actions, impacting public trust in the criminal justice system.
The details
Ennals was charged with the 2021 murder of Ja'len Woolford after police obtained a confession from Deaveon Johnson, who then implicated Ennals. Ennals was held without bail for over 20 months until being acquitted in 2024. His lawsuit alleges prosecutors continued pursuing the case even after evidence surfaced indicating Johnson as the primary suspect, including a witness corroborating Johnson's confession. Ennals is seeking $75,000 in damages plus legal fees.
- The killing of Ja'len Woolford occurred on November 18, 2021.
- Police obtained a confession from Deaveon Johnson on January 4, 2022, who then implicated Ennals.
- Ennals was held without bail from January 4, 2022, until September 27, 2023.
- Ennals was acquitted of the murder in 2024.
- Ennals filed the federal lawsuit in January 2026.
The players
Key'Marion Ennals
A Maryland man who was acquitted of murder in 2024 after spending over 20 months in jail, and is now suing the state for prosecutorial misconduct.
Deaveon Johnson
The individual who confessed to the 2021 killing of Ja'len Woolford and implicated Ennals, leading to Ennals' arrest and incarceration.
Amanda Leonard
The Dorchester County State's Attorney who was named in Ennals' lawsuit.
Philip Donoho
The former Deputy State's Attorney who was named in Ennals' lawsuit.
Ella Disharoon
The Deputy State's Attorney who was named in Ennals' lawsuit.
What they’re saying
“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”
— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)
“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”
— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.
