Homicide Defendant Can Test DNA Evidence After First Waiving Rights

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DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz approved Tyler Stringfield‘s request to test DNA evidence at a hearing on March 14, even though Stringfield previously waived his right to perform independent testing.

Stringfield, 26, Raymond Avent, 25, and Keith Baham, 25, are charged with first-degree murder while armed, conspiracy, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, two counts of carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business, two counts of possession of a large capacity ammunition feeding device, two counts of possession of an unregistered firearm, two counts of unlawful possession of ammunition, unlawful entry of a motor vehicle, unauthorized use of a vehicle, fleeing a law enforcement officer, leaving after colliding with property damage or injury to an animal while armed, destruction of property worth less than $1000, and two counts of destruction of property worth $1000 or more. These charges stem from their alleged involvement in the death of 23-year-old Rafiq Hawkins in the 1200 block of Brentwood Road, NE on March 23, 2019.

Avent is also charged with assault with intent to kill while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, assault knowingly while armed, unlawful possession of contraband in a penal institution, and conspiracy. These charges stem from his alleged involvement in a non-fatal DC Jail stabbing on June 3, 2021, on the 1900 block of D Street, SE.

Stringfield’s attorney, Steven Kiersh, said Stringfield waived his right to DNA testing under the guidance of a different attorney, before Kiersh took on his case in December of 2024.

Kiersh suggested that Stringfield might not have been implicated by the prosecution’s DNA test results at the time that he waived his rights to testing, but the prosecutor said he was.

The prosecutor opposed allowing Stringfield to test DNA evidence, saying, “I’m personally a tax payer. It’s a waste of money.”

When Judge Kravitz asked for a professional rather than a personal reason to oppose testing, the prosecutor said there may not be adequate time before the trial date of Sept. 22. According to the prosecutor, Stringfield’s DNA test results must be available at least four months before the start of trial in order for the prosecution to prepare adequately.

Kiersh said he thought he could meet that deadline because the lab he uses for DNA testing usually has a six-to-eight-week turnaround time, although he doesn’t know for certain what their workload is right now.

Judge Kravitz promised to sign the order for testing as soon as it’s sent to his chambers.

The next hearing in this case is set for May 16.