Baltimore Tech Entrepreneur's Murder Case Shakes Community, Sparks Legal Reforms

Jason Billingsley pleaded guilty to murdering Baltimore tech entrepreneur Pava LaPere and was sentenced to life. The case has led to reform in Maryland law regarding good behavior credits for first-degree rape sentences. Billingsley also faced life sentences for a separate home invasion and arson case.

A man pleaded guilty Friday to killing Baltimore tech entrepreneur Pava LaPere last September in an apparently random attack that shocked the city and prompted criticism of police for their response.

Jason Billingsley, 33, entered the guilty plea instead of going to trial Friday morning and was sentenced to life imprisonment. He also admitted guilt on Monday to two counts of attempted murder in a separate arson and home invasion case.

LaPere, a Forbes' 30 under 30 honoree, died from strangulation and blunt force trauma. She was found on the rooftop of her downtown Baltimore apartment. Billingsley was caught after gaining entry to her apartment by waving her over to its glass door. Prosecutors said he had previously beaten her with a brick and sexually assaulted her.

The Monday plea agreement included two other life sentences. Billingsley had been released from prison in October 2022 after earning good behavior credits for a 2013 rape conviction.

Following this case, Maryland lawmakers passed new legislation, effective October 1, that ends good behavior credits for anyone imprisoned for first-degree rape. LaPere's parents had testified in support of the bill earlier this year.

(With inputs from agencies.)