Trial begins for Maryland man accused of dismembering second-grade teacher
UPPER MARLBORO, Md. (DC News Now) – Tuesday, in Prince George's County, opening arguments began in the trial of Harold Landon III, a Maryland man accused of murdering and dismembering second-grade teacher Mariame Torre Sylla in 2023.
Sylla went for an evening walk in a park near her apartment before disappearing in late July. Searches went on for the teacher until her body was later found dismembered near a pond in Clinton. Prince George's County Police worked with Greenbelt Police to discover a torso at a pond in Clinton. A test later found that the torso was Sylla's.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Charging documents outline disturbing details of murder of beloved Greenbelt teacher
Police then used witnesses and surveillance in the area to find a white Chevy Silverado in the area around the time the body was discarded. That truck belonged to Landon, who also lived in the same neighborhood and was, according to the prosecution, seen at the same park where Sylla was last seen.
In the opening statements, State's Attorney Aisha Braveboy described Sylla as a loving teacher and mother. Prosecutors brought in witness testimony and pictures of the scene, including photos of the dismemberment. State prosecutors also say they have video and DNA evidence linking Landon and Sylla, but Landon's defense says the state won't provide a motive.
Sylla taught at Dora Kennedy French Immersion School, a community that is hoping for justice for their beloved teacher.
'Terrible,' said parent Noura Estatie. 'Teachers, they take care of our kids…I hope you know, her family gets [the] justice that they seek.'
The trial is expected to go into next week. This case marks Braveboy's last trial as state attorney before she transitions to county executive.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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