Homicide Defendant’s Attorney Says She Hopes to Change Jurisdiction

By Sophia DeThomas [former] - January 20, 2023
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Shooting | Suspects | Victims |

A defendant’s attorney is attempting to change jurisdiction in a homicide case.

Terrell Poe, 35, is being charged with first-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm. Poe shot 33-year-old Christopher Washington in September of 2020 on the 400 block of Southern Avenue, SE.

Defense attorney Marnitta King requested an earlier trial date at the beginning of the hearing.

DC Superior Court Judge Anthony Epstein said he was sympathetic but his schedule would not allow it. Afterwards, he set a motions deadline on Sept. 8.

King then revealed that there may be a challenge to jurisdiction. She said she hopes to prove that the incident’s jurisdiction falls under Maryland, not DC. This would mean DC Superior Court is not responsible for this case.

Judge Epstein said it is “more a venue issue than a jurisdiction issue.” He said she can file a motion if she wishes, but he does not think she will have enough evidence to prove the incident’s jurisdiction lies in Maryland.

Judge Epstein said he was ready to set a hearing for the DNA evidence unless Poe requested additional testing, which he did not. However, the prosecution stated the initial DNA testing had not yet been completed. The prosecution said the results of the DNA testing should be ready by June.

A hearing is set to happen on June 9 at 10 a.m.