Non-Fatal Shooting Trial Rescheduled Amid Prosecution Issues

By Kiliane Gateau [former] - February 5, 2024
Daily Stories | Non-Fatal Shooting | Suspects | Victims |

On Feb. 5, DC Superior Court Judge Robert Salerno rescheduled the trial date in a non-fatal shooting case due to prosecution issues.

Marquez Beasley, 31, faces charges of assault with a dangerous weapon and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting on the 900 Block of Division Avenue, NE on Aug. 16, 2023, resulting in three injuries. 

According to court documents, the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) responded to multiple gunshots after a dispute stemming from a car accident involving Beasley. Allegedly, he shot at two individuals trying to exchange information, with a third victim being a bystander.

Judge Salerno granted a motion to extend the trial date, citing the prosecutor’s health issues. He emphasized that a medical emergency takes precedence over a scheduling conflict, stating, “I am more sympathetic to someone facing a medical emergency than them having to go to trial.”

Defense attorney John Machado raised concerns about DNA and fingerprinting evidence in the case, noting that Beasley hadn’t agreed to proceed with DNA testing. Machado also mentioned a missing order to provide body-worn camera footage.

Given those issues, Judge Salerno questioned the trial preparations.

Given the impending date Judge Salerno announced he would sign a standard protective order to expedite availability of the video, emphasizing the lack of such an order on the record as a primary concern.

The next hearing is scheduled for Feb. 16, with parties set to reconvene on Feb. 26 for the trial.