Homicide Trial Scheduled For February Pushed To March 2026

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A prosecutor’s request to delay a homicide trial scheduled for Feb. 24 was granted by DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park on Feb. 12, and trial was rescheduled to 2026. 

Charles Haythe, 32, is charged with second-degree murder, carrying a dangerous weapon outside a home or business, and possession of a prohibited weapon for his alleged involvement in the fatal stabbing of 26-year-old Aaron Langford on Oct. 25, 2021, on the 1600 block of 18th Street, SE. 

A potential conflict of interest arose when the prosecution mentioned that defense attorney Julie Swaney had previously represented one of the witnesses scheduled to testify in trial. According to the prosecution, this connection would play to Haythe’s advantage.

Haythe requested more time to discuss this matter with his other defense attorney, Michelle Lockard. 

Prosecutors requested to delay trial, particularly for their experts to interview the defendant prior to trial. The motion was granted by Judge Park, who rescheduled the trial for March 30, 2026. 

Parties are scheduled to reconvene for a status hearing on Feb. 20.