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Description
See any errors? Let us know!Malik Samartaney: A Detailed Account of His Crimes
Background
Malik Samartaney, born Lawrence Banks on June 7, 1953, is an American serial killer who committed multiple murders between 1991 and 2019. He is also suspected of earlier crimes dating back to 1976. Samartaney's criminal activities spanned several decades, and his victims included family members and acquaintances.Crimes
- July 3, 1975: Lawrence Banks held a knife to the throat of his wife, Vivian Banks, and dragged her through the house. Although Vivian reported the incident to the police, the charges were later dropped at her request.
- December 27, 1975: After an argument with his wife, Lawrence threw his 7-month-old daughter, Dominique, through a glass door, causing her to receive 22 stitches. While out on bail, Vivian was found dead in her apartment. Lawrence was suspected of her murder but was never charged due to the decomposed state of the body.
- November 19, 1991: Lawrence fatally shot 36-year-old Michael Chisholm, one of his drinking buddies. Hours later, he killed his 17-year-old son, Lawrence Jr., in a foster home. He pleaded guilty to one count of second-degree murder and no contest to another, receiving two concurrent 20-year sentences.
- December 1, 2006: Malik's girlfriend's daughter, 22-year-old Lisa Brown, obtained a protective order against him. Eleven days later, Lisa and her 9-month-old daughter, Labria Fogle, were found shot dead in their home. Malik was suspected but never charged due to a lack of evidence.
- May 2019: Malik Samartaney murdered and dismembered his 43-year-old daughter, Dominique Foster, over her alleged drug addiction. Her remains were found near a dumpster in Baltimore. Malik was sentenced to 41 years in prison for this crime.
Conclusion
Malik Samartaney's criminal history is marked by violence and tragedy. His actions have left a lasting impact on the lives of his victims and their families. Despite his claims of innocence, the evidence against him has led to multiple convictions and a lengthy prison sentence. ...Read MoreVictims
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Confirmed Victims: (5)
Michael Chisholm Age: (36), Date of Death: 1991-11-19 ...View 4 additional victims
Links to Additional Sources (11)
See any mistakes? Let us know!Killer's Details
Malik
Samartaney
June 7, 1953 (age 71) Maryland, United States
Male
Black
Second degree murder (x3), Assault, Unauthorized disposal of a body
15 years imprisonment (1975 assault), 20 years imprisonment (1991 murders), 41 years imprisonment (2019 murder)
3-6
1991 - 2019 Also suspected of murdering his wife in 1976
Maryland
Roxbury Correctional Institution (DOC#: 00486109)
07/03/2025










