During a felony status conference on April 14, 17-year-old Donjae Parker pleaded guilty to the murder of 15-year-old Malachi Jackson.
The homicide took place in the 3000 block of 13th Street, NW on April 11, 2022. According to the prosecution, Parker was captured on surveillance camera before, during and after the crime.
Parker pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter while armed. His plea agreement will drop indictments on the remaining charges.
Defense attorney Kevin O’Sullivan requested Parker be sentenced in January of 2024 following his anticipated graduation from high school.
DC Superior Court Judge Michael O’Keefe rejected this request and instead scheduled the proceeding for July.
Members of the victim’s family who were present in the courtroom and voiced their opposition to Parker’s plea agreement.
Jackson’s mother, Alvoncia Jackson, addressed the court. She took off her black coat to reveal a shirt with images of her son printed on it.
Calling the plea agreement “too lenient,” and “shockingly unacceptable,” Jackson asked for the deal to be rejected.
“He is being given a slap on the wrist,” she said.
Judge O’Keefe thanked her for the statement and dismissed the parties.
Parker’s sentencing is scheduled for July 14, 2023.
