Homicide Defendant Pleads Not Guilty in Arraignment

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A homicide defendant pleaded not guilty during an arraignment in DC Superior Court Judge Robert Okun’s courtroom on June 13.

Jeremiah Evans, 20, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 18-year-old Khalliqo Ford on June 15, 2023, on the 200 block of K Street, SW.

Stephen LoGerfo, Evans’ defense attorney, alerted the court he was pleading not guilty to all charges and asserted his constitutional rights, including the right to a speedy trial.

Parties scheduled a trial for Aug. 25, 2025.

However, the duration remains uncertain, as the prosecution has not yet provided an estimate of how long their case might take.

The judge inquired about the status of the DNA testing of evidence recovered at the scene.

The prosecution acknowledged that the full DNA test results are not yet available, but indicated that they expect to receive them from the lab within the next 60 days. Once the results are received, they will be promptly turned over to the defense.

The next court date is scheduled for Aug. 16 for a status hearing.