Judge Finds Probable Cause in Spite of Imperfect Self-Defense Claim

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DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman found probable cause in a shooting homicide on Jan. 21 even though the defense argued there was a limited claim of self-defense.

Tyquan Jennings, 26, is charged with second-degree murder while armed for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 19-year-old Vonte Martin and injury of another person on the 3000 block of Stanton Road, SE on Aug. 19, 2024.

During the hearing, the prosecution played a cell phone video recovered from an anonymous tip capturing the incident. The lead detective testified that multiple witnesses identified the suspect as Jennings to the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and in the video the suspect allegedly exchanged words with the victim-that before he is said to swung at the Jennings immediately prior to the shooting.

The detective also testified that Martin was shot twice but police didn’t find a weapon.

Nathaniel Mensah, Jennings’ attorney, argued the incident was an example of imperfect self defense–an honest but unreasonable belief that the defendant was acting in self-defense– adding that a punch from the victim could have been a “one punch case” rendering the Jennings unconscious. Mensah also cited a history of frequent fights between the victim and defendant, and noted that a witness told MPD that Martin always won these fights.

Mensah argued that a search warrant against his client’s phone was based on information from a witness who lied. The detective testified the witness was not necessarily untruthful but “uncooperative”. The defense intends to refile a motion for evidence exculpatory to the defense.

The prosecution argued against Jennings’ release, based on his prior contact with law enforcement including two pending cases, one involving a firearm.

Mensah asked for Jennings’ release on home confinement and GPS monitoring based on his new living situation and that his other cases were self-defense.

Judge Edelman ruled that Jennings probably committed the crime based on his alleged presence in the video and witness identification. The judge acknowledged Mensah’s self-defense argument but stated there is no direct evidence the victim was armed or that there was justifiable motive.

Judge Edelman held Jennings with no bond.

The next hearing is scheduled for Feb. 21.