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Sadie Herman [former]
- November 14, 2023
Court
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Daily Stories
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Homicides
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Suspects
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Victims
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On Nov. 14, a defendant in a homicide case was arraigned before DC Superior Court Judge Michael O’Keefe.
Riley Benjamin, 32, was originally charged with first-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm. Roger Jones, 41, is charged with 11 counts, including one count of assault with intent to kill while armed, three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, one count of aggravated assault knowingly while armed, and one count of assault with a dangerous weapon, among other charges. Benjamin and Jones are charged for their alleged involvement in the murder of 31-year-old Maurice McRae on Feb. 19, 2022, on the 3000 block of Bladensburg Road, NE. McRae succumbed to his injuries on April 27, 2022.
During the Nov. 14 hearing, Benjamin was arraigned with one count of assault with intent to kill while armed, three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, one count of assault with a dangerous weapon, one count of unlawful possession of a firearm, and one count of aggravated assault knowingly while armed.
His defense attorney, Julie Swaney, informed the court that Benjamin would be pleading not guilty to all charges, and asserting his constitutional rights as well.
Jones was previously arraigned on Oct. 31, where he pleaded not guilty to all charges and asserted his constitutional rights in front of DC Superior Court Judge Robert Okun.
According to court documents, neither defendant was arraigned on any murder charges, despite the death of McRae.
The parties are expected to return on Jan. 18.