Courtroom Disruptions Complicate 2021 Homicide Trial

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DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park reminded courtroom visitors to stay calm and avoid interacting with witnesses after a fight broke out during a turbulent murder trial proceeding on March 11.

Nyjell Outler, 22, is charged with first-degree murder premeditated while armed, assault with intent to kill while armed, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, and four counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, for his alleged involvement in the murder of Demetris Johnson, 21, on March 20, 2021 on the unit block of Madison Street, NE at a gender reveal party. The incident also left another victim injured in both legs. All charges face an aggravating factor of allegedly being committed during Outler’s release in another matter.

The prosecution called Johnson’s best friend as an eyewitness to the shooting after he previously tried to plead the Fifth Amendment during grand jury testimony. After receiving immunity, he ultimately agreed to testify, and his defense attorney, Brian McDaniel, was present.

The witness identified both victims and the defendant but claimed that his memory was unclear from that night because he was “traumatized” after seeing his friend’s death. The memory lapse left him unable to recall whether anyone had a gun or what prompted the shooting.

Outler’s attorney, Gemma Stevens, used the memory lapse to argue that the witness could not confirm if they had actually planned to rob Outler, supporting the defense’s claim of self-defense.

Near the end of the witness’s testimony, one of Johnson’s family members stormed out of the courtroom, saying that the witness, “couldn’t believe he would say that.”

After the testimony, a shouting match broke out among the audience, prompting several US Marshals to restore order. Judge Park paused the trial to remind everyone of the courtroom rules, including no interaction with witnesses.

Prosecutors also called a Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) detective assigned to the Capital Area Regional Fugitive Task Force (CARFTF), who described efforts to locate Outler after a warrant was issued for his arrest in February of 2022.

According to the detective, Outler was added to the US Marshals Service’s “15 Most Wanted” list, leading to a nationwide search, including California and Florida, where Outler had known associates.

A Palm Beach Police Department (PBPD) sergeant testified that an anonymous tip led to Outler’s location at an apartment complex in the city. After a brief surveillance, he was apprehended.

The prosecution called on a former MPD officer who monitored Outler’s social media accounts in 2022, including an Instagram Live video, which helped identify Outler and his possible location.

Prosecutors also called on an inmate who allegedly interacted with Outler while both were incarcerated. The witness refused to cooperate, claiming he was forced to be there despite knowing nothing about the case and having never seen Outler.

He accused the prosecution of intimidating him and “trying to force him to say things.” He requested his attorney and could not recall his previous testimony given to a grand jury.

Parties are slated to reconvene on March 12.