Maryland dentist, 50, gets 45 years in prison for killing girlfriend, 25, with lethal dose of ketamine
Warning: This article contains a recollection of crime and can be triggering to some, readers’ discretion advised.
GERMANTOWN, MARYLAND: 50-year-old Maryland-based dentist and oral surgeon James Michael Ryan has been sentenced to over four decades in prison for the death of his 25-year-old girlfriend, Sarah Harris.
State Circuit Court Judge Cheryl A McCally handed down the sentence on Wednesday, January 3, emphasizing the severity of Ryan's actions that led to Harris fatally overdosing on anesthesia medications administered through an at-home IV station set up by the oral surgeon on January 26, 2022
Timeline of James Michael Ryan and Sarah Harris' relationship
The relationship between Ryan and Harris began in the fall of 2020 when she visited his dental office for a medical procedure.
Harris, a former beauty queen, shared her experience working in a dental office during the visit, leading to Ryan offering her a job.
The two eventually began dating in January 2021, with Harris permanently moving in during the summer of 2021.
Despite concerns from Harris's family, the relationship persisted until her tragic death.
Tragedy struck on January 26, 2022, when Ryan found Harris “unresponsive on the couch with used hypodermic needles and various vials of controlled dangerous substances bottles nearby,” as per court recods.
During the sentencing hearing, Judge McCally recounted the events leading to Harris's death, highlighting text messages that indicated Ryan had administered ketamine to Harris while she was asleep.
The court revealed that Ryan had provided Harris with drugs stolen from his dental practice, and "often administered" them himself.
What are the charges against James Michael Ryan?
Previously convicted of second-degree depraved heart murder and involuntary manslaughter, as well as charges related to the possession and distribution of drugs, Ryan was facing a maximum sentence of 55 years in prison.
However, the judge opted to exceed state sentencing guidelines, which ranged from 10 to 25 years, citing Ryan's "significant role" in Harris' death and the abuse of his position of power over her, the Washington Post reported.
Nevertheless, disturbingly, text messages obtained by authorities revealed that Harris had asked Ryan to provide her with drugs from his medical practice.
The 55-year-old oral surgeon not only provided the drugs but also instructed Harris on their use, discussing ways to intensify their effects and expedite recovery from their impact.
Authorities determined the cause of death as ketamine and diazepam intoxication through an autopsy.
The home where they lived together revealed various drugs, hypodermic needles, syringes, and tourniquets.
