Annapolis Man Who Shot Police Officer Sentenced to 55 Years

An Annapolis man who shot an Anne Arundel County police officer has received 55 years in prison.

Anne Arundel County State's Attorney Wes Adams announced Monday that Colvin White, 31, has been convicted of attempted first-degree murder and use of a firearm in the commission of a crime of violence.

White was sentenced to life plus 20 years, with all but 55 years suspended, for shooting Corporal Larry Adams in April of 2015.

“Today’s sentence...sends a strong message to those who wish our police officers harm; we will hold you accountable for your actions,” Wes Adams said in a statement.

“Our police officers put their lives on the line to serve and protect our community, and they deserve our utmost respect and support. Cpl. Adams was simply doing his job that night, protecting our citizens, when he was shot twice by Mr. White. I am thankful that Cpl. Adams continues his recovery," Wes Adams continued.

At approximately 2 a.m. on April 10, 2015, Officer Larry Adams was on a routine patrol when he encountered a van on the side of the road. Concerned for a citizen's safety, he approached the passenger, 30-year-old Danielle Blake of Severn, who was the lone occupant at the time.

"Ms. Blake stated that the van had run out of gas and the driver had gone into the East College Parkway 7-Eleven nearby," police said in a statement about the night of the shooting. "Intending to give the driver $5 for gas, Officer Adams parked at the 7-Eleven where an emplyoee alerted him to a suspicious man outside the store."

Police said Officer Adams encountered White lurking in a hoodie and dark clothing around the side of the store.

"Upon asking for Mr. White's identification, a scuffle ensued. Mr. White fled and Officer Adams gave chase," police said.

White reportedly ran into the wooded area between the 7-Eleven and a BGE substation and proceeded to hide behind a tree. As Officer Adams moved into the wooded area, White stepped out from behind a tree and ambushed Officer Adams, shooting at him twice and striking him once in the neck.

Police said White then fled with his girlfriend, who was waiting in her van on the side of College Parkway.

Employees of the 7-11 found Officer Adams suffering from a gunshot wound. Officer Adams was transported to the hospital, where life-saving measures reportedly were used to save his life.

Danielle Blake pled guilty in October of serving as accessory-after-the-fact in the shooting, and to transporting a handgun in a vehicle as part of a plea agreement. Her sentencing is currently scheduled for June 13.