Teen Sentenced to Life for Brutal Murder and Rape of Maryland Woman
BRUNSWICK, Md. — A Maryland teenager will spend the rest of his life in prison for the brutal murder and sexual assault of a 61-year-old woman in January 2024.
On Sept. 8, 2025, Frederick County prosecutors announced that 19-year-old Juwuan Stewart was sentenced to life plus 20 years after pleading guilty to first-degree murder and first-degree rape earlier this year. He will also be required to register as a sex offender.
According to court documents, Stewart attacked the victim inside her Brunswick apartment on Jan. 17, 2024. Earlier that day, he had offered to clear snow off her vehicle in exchange for money, but the woman declined his repeated requests. Days later, a family member discovered her body.
Police and medical examiners determined she died from multiple stab wounds and strangulation. Stewart’s discarded ankle monitor was recovered in his backyard, and DNA evidence tied him directly to the crime scene.
State’s Attorney Charlie Smith called the case “extremely egregious,” noting it would have qualified for the death penalty in the past. “The community needs to understand that some teenagers are capable of extremely brutal and horrific crimes and should be punished according to the crime, not just their age,” he said.
During sentencing, the victim’s daughter delivered an emotional statement describing how the crime shattered her family. “I will never be the same person after this life-altering event,” she told the court.
Stewart’s conviction closes a case that rocked the Brunswick community.
Leave a Reply