A murder defendant, who was convicted by a jury, received a new attorney before DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan during a hearing on June 27.
In March, Deonte Patterson, 29, was convicted of first-degree premeditated murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and obstructing justice by influencing or delaying of a witness or officer for the fatal shooting of 32-year-old Ali Jamil Al-Mahdi on Aug. 23, 2021, on the 1800 block of 9th Street, NW.
Sentencing for Patterson was scheduled in May but his attorney, Cheryl Stein, asked the judge to withdraw from the case due to an “ethical conflict.” Stein did not elaborate on the conflict but noted it might be discussed in a future appeal. Judge Ryan granted Stein’s motion to withdraw.
Judge Ryan suggested the appointment of defense attorney Destiny Fullwood-Singh, who was present for the hearing Friday, to represent Patterson for the remainder of the case.
Fullwood-Singh accepted the appointment, however told the judge that she needed time to acquaint herself with the case details. Judge Ryan asked that Stein share her case documents with Fullwood-Singh to aid her in this process.
Parties are expected to reconvene Aug. 1.
