Week One Summary: Holbrook Dismemberment Trial In Calvert County

CALVERT COUNTY, Md. — The first week of the murder trial for Brandon Ross Holbrook concluded Friday at the Calvert County Circuit Court in Prince Frederick. Holbrook, 49, is charged with first-degree murder of Joseph Shymanski, a 51-year-old photographer from Huntingtown.

The trial began March 31 and is being presided over by Judge Mark S. Chandlee. Holbrook is represented by defense attorney Thomas C. Mooney, while Calvert County State’s Attorneys Benjamin G. Lerner and Christopher J. Monte are prosecuting the case.

Prosecutors presented a timeline suggesting Holbrook drove from Reedsville, Pennsylvania, to Shymanski’s home in Maryland on Sept. 3, 2023, and fatally shot him in his driveway. Surveillance videos from Maryland and Pennsylvania captured Holbrook’s vehicle near the crime scenes on the night of the alleged murder and in the subsequent days. Authorities testified that Holbrook transported Shymanski’s body back to Pennsylvania, where it was later discovered burned and dismembered in woods near his residence.

Forensic evidence presented included blood spatter at the victim’s residence, charred human remains identified through dental records, and surveillance video reportedly showing Holbrook purchasing cleaning supplies and disposing of evidence.

Defense attorney Mooney argued that no direct eyewitnesses witnessed Holbrook committing the murder and noted that the murder weapon was never recovered. The defense also implied possible involvement by Shymanski’s ex-wife, who had previously been in a relationship with Holbrook.

Judge Chandlee prohibited cameras in the courtroom, limiting visuals to external images and booking photographs previously released by law enforcement.

Family and friends of the victim attended proceedings daily, wearing pins and apparel marked with “Justice for Joe” in a public show of support.

The prosecution is expected to rest early next week, after which the defense will begin presenting its case. The trial will resume Monday, April 7, with deliberations anticipated later in the week.

See https://thebaynet.com/week-one-summary-holbrook-dismemberment-trial-in-calvert-county/