Maryland Hair Stylist Sentenced to Five Years for Assaulting Teenage Client
In a shocking turn of events, a Maryland hair stylist has been sentenced to five years in jail, with all but six months suspended, for assaulting a 15-year-old client over a payment dispute. The incident, which was caught on camera and went viral, raises questions about the treatment of young people in the beauty industry and the consequences of violent behavior.The Incident: A Payment Dispute Turns Violent
In March 2025, Jayla Cunningham, a 19-year-old hairstylist from Laurel, Maryland, was operating her licensed hair-braiding business out of her Temple Hills apartment. According to court documents, she spent hours installing a weave for a 15-year-old client, who had agreed to pay $150. However, when the client attempted to leave without paying once the style was complete, Cunningham became aggressive and dragged the girl by her hood towards the door.
The Aftermath: Charges Filed and a Viral Video
The client's mother later filed charges against Cunningham, alleging that she pulled her daughter's hair. The incident was caught on camera and posted online, sparking widespread outrage and condemnation. A jury eventually convicted Cunningham of second-degree assault in November 2025.
The Sentence: Five Years with Six Months Suspended
On January 22, 2026, Judge Michael Pearson handed down the sentence, stating that while he had no reason to believe Cunningham was a bad person, the evidence presented was 'impossible to ignore.' Cunningham showed remorse in court, apologizing for her actions and expressing a desire to learn from her mistakes. As part of her sentence, she will serve six months of home confinement, undergo mental health treatment, and complete anger management classes.
The case highlights the importance of accountability and consequences for violent behavior in the beauty industry. While Cunningham's sentence may seem lenient to some, it serves as a reminder that actions have consequences and that young people must be held responsible for their actions. As we move forward, let us prioritize empathy, understanding, and respect for all individuals, particularly those who are vulnerable and deserving of protection.
#Lifestyle #Featured #Maryland
