Former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan’s top aide, Roy McGrath, died on Monday during a confrontation with law enforcement after a three-week manhunt. McGrath had been on the run for 21 days after failing to show up for a trial on March 13 for fraud and embezzlement charges in U.S. District Court in Baltimore.
According to a statement from the FBI, McGrath was injured during an “agent-involved shooting” near Knoxville, Tennessee, and was taken to a hospital where he died of his wounds. Authorities have not yet released details about the events leading up to the confrontation.
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McGrath was indicted in 2021 on several fraud charges, including accusations of defrauding the Maryland Environmental Service of more than $233,000 in severance pay before leaving to work for Hogan. He served as the governor’s chief of staff for only three months when revelations about the severance package prompted legislative hearings and McGrath’s resignation. He maintained that the governor approved of the severance deal, but Hogan denied any knowledge of it and cooperated with investigators. Hogan was on the prosecution’s witness list for McGrath’s trial.
Joseph Murtha, an attorney for McGrath’s wife, said in a statement to The Washington Post that “the loss of Roy’s life is an absolute tragedy, and I think it’s important for me to say that Roy never wavered about his innocence.”
Hogan issued a statement on Monday expressing his sadness over the situation and offering his condolences to McGrath’s family and loved ones.
“If convicted, McGrath would have faced decades in prison.”
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The news of McGrath’s death has shocked the political community in Maryland, with many expressing their condolences and sympathy for his family. The circumstances surrounding his death are currently under investigation, and more information is expected to be released as the investigation progresses.
McGrath’s case highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in government, particularly concerning the use of public funds. The allegations against him serve as a reminder of the need for public officials to act with integrity and honesty in their dealings with the public.
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As the investigation into McGrath’s death continues, the political community in Maryland will undoubtedly be watching closely, hoping for answers and closure in this tragic situation.
