Judge Denies Defense’s Motion for Continuance

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DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan denied a homicide defendant’s motion to delay trial due to the defendant’s inability to hire an expert witness, during a July 10 hearing.

Keanan Turner, 33, is charged with two counts of first-degree murder while armed with aggravating circumstances, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, assault with intent to kill while armed, four counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, destruction of property, carrying a pistol without a license, tampering with physical evidence, second-degree cruelty to children, attempted murder against a minor, and arson.

The charges stem from his alleged involvement in the shooting of Wanda Wright, 48, and Ebony Wright, 31, on the 2000 block of Good Hope Court, SE on April 12, 2021.

During the hearing, Turner’s attorney Franz Jobson said the expert witness, who was testifying on behalf of the defendant, had not received payment and may not testify before a court in trial without it. He said a continuance is appropriate.

The prosecution disagreed, arguing the court should not grant a continuance based on that matter because the defense knew about the solicitation for three years.

Judge Raffinan suggested the witness be paid through Criminal Justice Act funds as long as the defendant is unable to pay the expert and the expert is necessary for the trial.

She denied the motion to continue.

Parties are set to reconvene for trial on July 17.