Man sentenced to prison for killing his wife, given the maximum penalty under Maryland state law

2 months ago 5

He was given the maximum penalty under Maryland state law for second-degree murder.

SILVER SPRING, Md. — A Maryland man, Dennis Hinnant Jr., will spend the next 40 years behind bars for the murder of his wife, Taresha Pendarvis, after receiving the maximum penalty under state law for second-degree murder.

The 30-year-old Silver Spring resident was sentenced on Tuesday following his conviction in May 2023. Hinnant Jr. was convicted after officers discovered his wife, Pendarvis, 28, lifeless in a bathtub, having been both stabbed and strangled with a belt.

Police were first made aware of the murder back in February of 2023, when Hinnant Jr. walked into a Rockville City Police station, carrying his infant child. Once there, Hinnant Jr. told officers that he needed to speak with a homicide detective. He provided his wife's address, leading officers to her apartment, where they found her dead.

In the subsequent police interview, Hinnant Jr. confessed to the killing, stating that an argument about their marriage had escalated into violence. The baby, unharmed during the incident, was immediately removed from Hinnant Jr.'s custody.

There are a variety of resources for those affected by domestic violence in Silver Spring, Maryland including:

The Montgomery County Family Justice Center provides comprehensive services, including legal support, counseling, and emergency shelter.
House of Ruth Maryland offers crisis intervention, counseling, and legal assistance to survivors.
The Montgomery County Crisis Center operates 24/7, offering immediate crisis intervention, counseling, and referrals to additional services.
Stepping Stones Shelter provides emergency shelter and supportive services to survivors and their children.
The YWCA of the National Capital Area offers counseling, support groups, and resources specifically geared toward empowering survivors.
The Maryland Network Against Domestic Violence provides statewide resources, including a hotline, advocacy, and connections to local support services. These organizations work together to provide critical support and safety to those in need.