Demiko Aiken

Homicide Unit detectives arrested and charged two teenagers in connection with the homicide in Capitol Heights on Monday. One of the suspects is being charged as an adult. He’s 17-year-old Demiko Aiken of the 5600 block of Rollins Lane in Capitol Heights. He’s charged with first and second degree murder. The second suspect, a 16-year-old, is charged as a juvenile with accessory-after-the-fact.

On December 19th, at about 9:50 am, a citizen flagged down a patrol officer after seeing the victim, Rayshand Cotton, on the ground in the 1100 block of Brooke Road. The victim was suffering from severe burns and was pronounced dead at the scene. An autopsy determined Cotton died from a gunshot wound.

Through the course of the investigation, Aiken was developed as a suspect. He and the second suspect were arrested last night. They were driving the victim’s stolen SUV in the area of Rollins Lane in Capitol Heights. Detectives believe the motive for the murder was the robbery of the SUV. Aiken and the victim were acquaintances. The 16-year-old has admitted to helping Aiken dispose of the body after the murder. He is charged as a juvenile with accessory after the fact, police said.

Aiken is in the custody of the Department of Correction on a no-bond status. He is being charged as an adult with first- and second-degree murder.

Anyone with information on this case is asked to call the Homicide Unit at 301-772-4925. Callers wishing to remain anonymous may call Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477), text “PGPD plus your message” to CRIMES (274637) on your cell phone or go to www.pgcrimesolvers.com and submit a tip online.

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