Cops name person of interest in murder of Maryland judge

A person of interest was identified early Friday in the shocking murder of a Maryland judge — a man whose divorce had recently been handled by the gunned-down jurist.

Pedro Argote, 49, is being sought in connection with the homicide investigation into the killing of Judge Andrew Wilkinson, 52, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office said in a news update Friday.

Court records indicate that Wilkinson oversaw Argote’s divorce proceedings.

Argote is described as 5-foot-7 and weighing 130 lbs, with black hair and brown eyes. He may be driving a silver 2009 Mercedes with Maryland plates.

“Anyone with information in reference to Argote’s location is asked to not approach him but to immediately notify law enforcement,” officials said.

Authorities have not revealed a motive for the judge’s slaying.

The sheriff’s office will hold a press conference at 11 a.m. to offer additional details on the case.

Maryland State Police deployed out troopers Thursday night to protect other judges living in Washington County for “precautionary reasons.”

Wilkinson was shot outside his Hagerstown home around 8 p.m., according to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.

The judge was taken to Meritus Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead, authorities said.

With Post wires