Shooting Defendant Waives Right to Independent DNA Testing

By Sonia Vazquez [former] , Vivien Williams [former] - June 5, 2024
Daily Stories | Non-Fatal Shooting | Suspects | Victims |

A homicide defendant voluntarily waived his right to independently test DNA evidence recovered from a crime scene in front of DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan on June 5. 

Vann Allen, 35, is charged with assault with intent to kill while armed, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, four counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a convict, for his alleged involvement in a shooting that occurred on Nov. 11, 2023, on the 1400 block on New York Avenue, NE. An individual sustained injuries from the incident. 

During the hearing, the prosecutor alerted the court they had gone through with DNA testing of the evidence recovered at the crime scene. 

However, Michelle Lockard, Allen’s defense attorney, alerted the court Allen was waiving his right to independently test the evidence. 

Judge Raffinan was satisfied with Allen’s voluntary denial of DNA evidence. 

Allen has been in compliance with the conditions of his release. 

The parties are scheduled to return Oct. 15.