A federal judge has denied the compassionate release request of Daniel Hersl, a former Baltimore police officer convicted in the Gun Trace Task Force corruption scandal. Hersl, the oldest member of the disbanded unit, was sentenced to 18 years in prison for racketeering and robbery. Despite recently being diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer that has spread to various organs, including his lymph nodes, liver, and lungs, Hersl’s request for home detention was rejected.
Hersl was one of eight indicted members of the Gun Trace Task Force, which was initially established to combat illegal guns in the city. However, the unit’s members engaged in corruption, including robbing drug dealers, planting narcotics and firearms on innocent individuals, and assaulting civilians. Their actions led to the dropping of numerous cases that relied on their testimonies.
Prosecutors highlighted Hersl’s abuse of power and manipulation of those he encountered as a police officer. They also revealed his rampant overtime fraud, including using work hours to refurbish his house. The judge acknowledged the severity of Hersl’s crimes, stating that they irreparably damaged the reputation of the Baltimore City Police Department and all law-abiding public servants.
In his order denying the release request, U.S. District Judge George L. Russell III emphasized the need for accountability and punishment for those involved in criminal conduct and racketeering. He stated that a strong message must be sent to deter such behavior in the future.
Hersl’s attorney, William Purpura, submitted recent emails from Hersl, expressing his constant pain and desire to spend time with his son and family before his days are over. Despite the denial of compassionate release, Hersl will continue to receive medical care from the federal Bureau of Prisons and have the opportunity to visit his family during his incarceration.
This case serves as another reminder of the corruption that plagued the Gun Trace Task Force and the long-lasting consequences it has had on the justice system in Baltimore.
