A murder defendant waived her right to conduct independent DNA testing before DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz on March 21.
Yazmin Owens, 24, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for her alleged involvement in the death of 26-year-old Nakysia Lemon-Williams on Nov. 14, 2023, on the 1900 block of Minnesota Avenue, SE.
During the hearing, Owens’ attorney, Sylvia Smith, notified the court of Owens’ intention to waive her right to independently test DNA evidence.
Judge Kravitz reviewed the rights Owens would be giving up and asked her questions to ensure her decision was knowing and voluntary.
Parties are expected to reconvene on Dec. 12.
