Murder Defendant Pleads Not Guilty at Arraignment

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A murder defendant pleaded not guilty to all indictment charges on Nov. 22 in front of DC Superior Court Judge Michael O’Keefe

Maleek Thomas, 21, is charged with first-degree murder while armed,assault with intent to kill while armed, felony murder while armed, unlawful possession of a firearm by a convict, and three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 23-year-old Melvin Dock Jr on the 4300 block of Halley Terrace, SE on Oct 30, 2023.

During the hearing, Howard McEachern, Thomas’ attorney, alerted the court of his intent to plead not guilty to all charges. McEachern also asserted Thomas’ constitutional rights, including the right to a speedy trial. 

Parties are set to reconvene on Jan 17, 2025.