police-incident · Montgomery County, Maryland
Man Sentenced to 22 Years for Striking Officer Patrick Kepp, Who Returned to Duty After Losing Legs
What happened?
ConvictedRaphael Mayorga was sentenced to 22 years and 60 days in prison for intentionally striking Montgomery County Police Sergeant Patrick Kepp, who lost both legs but returned to active duty. The incident also inspired the passage of the 'Sgt.
Timeline
Raphael Mayorga intentionally struck Montgomery County Police Sergeant Patrick Kepp with his vehicle on Interstate 270.
Raphael Mayorga was initially charged with first-degree attempted murder.
Sergeant Patrick Kepp returned to work at the police force, with his recovery and rehabilitation ongoing.
Raphael Mayorga was found not guilty of attempted first or second-degree murder but guilty of 13 charges, including second-degree assault.
The 'Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act' (Senate Bill 590) was enacted, with its enhanced penalties set to take effect on October 1, 2025.
Judge Harry Storm sentenced Raphael Mayorga, then 21 years old, to 22 years and 60 days in prison.
The enhanced penalties of the 'Sgt.
What people are asking
What was Raphael Mayorga sentenced to?
Raphael Mayorga was sentenced to 22 years and 60 days in prison on August 27, 2025, which was the maximum sentence allowed by law for his conviction on 13 charges, including second-degree assault.
What happened to Sergeant Patrick Kepp after the incident?
Sergeant Patrick Kepp lost both of his legs due to the incident but made a remarkable recovery, returning to active-duty police work in November 2024. He also referees Division One college football.
Was Raphael Mayorga found guilty of attempted murder?
No, Raphael Mayorga was found not guilty of attempted first or second-degree murder in April 2025. However, he was found guilty of 13 other charges, including second-degree assault.
What is the 'Sgt. Patrick Kepp Act'?
The 'Sgt. Patrick Kepp Act' is a Maryland law (Senate Bill 590) passed in April 2025 and effective October 1, 2025, that introduces stricter penalties for reckless driving, including making driving 30 mph or more over the speed limit an arrestable offense.
Receipts
- WJLAAug 28, 2025
- The MoCo ShowAug 27, 2025
How we researched this & corrections
Information was gathered from multiple news reports covering the incident, trial, sentencing, and legislative aftermath, with official statements from involved parties.
Spot something wrong? Corrections: corrections@aftertheclip.com.
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