Prosecution Calls Victim’s Brother to Testify

By D.C. Witness Staff - February 20, 2020
Court | Daily Stories | Documents | Homicides | Suspects | Victims |

During the third day of trial on Feb. 18, the brother of the victim was called to testify because there was no eye witness to the murder.

Herman Lee Cook, Jr., 49 , is charged with with second-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence and unlawful possession of a firearm. Cook is charged for allegedly shooting Donald Johnson Jr., 45, on the 5700 block of Georgia Avenue, NW.

According to defense attorney, William Buie, Johnson’s brother was only brought to the stand as a character witness, “Because they do not have any eye witnesses.”

The brother identified Cook in surveillance footage of the murder even after being question by Buie on if he had any doubts on if it were Cook or not.

“That’s him right there, that is the same man who is in the video” said the witness, gesturing toward Cook. 

When asked if he could really determine whether or not the person in the video is Cook, the witness began to answer when he was cut off by the defense lawyer.

“Well you asked me a question and I’m going to finish answering that question,” the brother said. At this point the defense and the prosecution were both asked to approach the bench.

“Do you one hundred percent without a doubt know that this is Mr. Cook is the one shown in the video,” Johnson’s defense lawyer asked the witness.

Jury deliberations began on Feb. 20.

This article was written by Jailynn Caraballo.