Judge Denies Homicide Defendant’s Request for Release 

By Ivanna Ceballos - October 21, 2024
Daily Stories | Homicides | Shooting | Suspects | Victims |

During an Oct. 21 hearing, defense attorney Mani Golzari requested DC Superior Court Judge Anthony Epstein release a homicide defendant from DC Jail to address his fugitive case pending in Maryland.

Kavon Young, 34, is charged with first-degree murder while armed for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of John Pernell, 66. The incident took place on July 3, 2010, during a robbery at a cookout on the 3000 block of Nelson Place, SE, where multiple armed men allegedly assaulted attendees and stole personal belongings.

During the hearing, Golzari raised concerns about Maryland’s cooperation regarding a bench warrant, emphasizing the need for Young to be available to resolve legal matters there and in DC. Golzari proposed a temporary release from DC, with the court retaining authority to order Young’s return before his trial, tentatively scheduled for April 2025.

Prosecutors previously told Judge Epstein Maryland that they could implement a writ that would transfer Young from DC to their jurisdiction and guarantee his return before trial, but it hasn’t been ordered. 

Judge Epstein noted that the risk of Maryland not honoring a homicide writ seemed relatively low but acknowledged the parties’ concerns. He added that while the trial is roughly six months away and that the situation must be addressed promptly.

Judge Epstein scheduled a hearing in the coming weeks to revisit the issue after additional discussions and to monitor progress in the Maryland case.

Parties will reconvene on Nov. 1.