A Maryland court has sentenced a 53-year-old man, Reginald English, to 72 years in prison for the brutal murder of his 72-year-old mother, Lorena Royster, whom he stabbed 47 times following a dispute over her car.
The sentence was handed down by a judge in Prince George’s County, Maryland. Although the court imposed a life sentence, all but 72 years were suspended, resulting in a prison term that reflects the age of the victim at the time of her death.
According to prosecutors, Royster was found dead inside her Bladensburg home last year after suffering dozens of stab wounds. Investigators also discovered a handcuff attached to one of her wrists, indicating the attack may have been prolonged and particularly violent.
Authorities said the fatal confrontation stemmed from an argument over Royster’s Toyota Camry. Prosecutors told the court that English remained fixated on the vehicle even after he was arrested.
During the sentencing hearing, the prosecution cited a recorded jailhouse phone conversation in which English reportedly argued with his sister over ownership of the car title. The state argued that the call demonstrated his continued obsession with the dispute that ultimately led to his mother’s death.
English was convicted of murder last summer, and on Friday, the court approved the prosecution’s request for a 72-year prison term.
Family members welcomed the sentence, saying it delivered a measure of justice for a woman they described as caring, selfless and devoted to her family.
Royster’s stepdaughter, Audrey Lawrence, said the sentence would serve as a lasting reminder of the crime.
“For me, 72 years is going to forever be etched in his brain,” she said, expressing satisfaction with the court’s decision.
Royster’s niece, Tracie Quander, remembered the deceased as a central figure in the family whose compassion and support impacted many lives.
“She was a pillar in our family,” Quander said. “Her dedication to family and to making sure that people around her are OK is immeasurable.”
Relatives said that while the sentence cannot undo their loss, it provides some closure as they continue to mourn a woman they described as the heart of their family.
