DC Superior Court Judge Michael O’Keefe indefinitely delayed a homicide defendant’s sentencing pending the appointment of a new attorney on Dec. 17.
On Oct. 11, Chanos Monroe, 43, pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter while armed for his involvement in the fatal shooting of 52-year-old Keith Sistare on July 27, 2022 on the 4400 block of Benning Road, NE.
Shawn Sukumar, Monroe’s attorney, filed a motion on Dec. 16 to withdraw as defense counsel, stating it was Monroe’s request to get a new attorney. Due to the request, Sukumar asked Judge O’Keefe to grant his withdrawal, and appoint a new attorney.
During the hearing, Judge O’Keefe granted Sukumar’s request, questioning if that meant Monroe is reconsidering his decision to plead guilty.
Although Sukumar was unable to answer, he stated Monroe wanted a chance to speak with a new attorney and figure out how to move forward with the case.
Parties are slated to reconvene on Jan. 24.
