DC Superior Court Judge Carmen McLean denied a shooting defendant’s motion to sever his trial from his co-defendants on Sept. 5.
James Matheny, 31, and Rashid Woods, 30, are charged with two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, unlawful possession of a firearm and carrying a pistol without a license for their alleged involvement in a shooting that occurred on the 2100 block of Mississippi Avenue, SE, on Sept. 3, 2024.
Woods is also charged with carrying a shotgun or rifle and simple assault.
Jewan Mathis, 29, is also charged with two counts of unlawful possession of a firearm, two counts of carrying a pistol without a license and possession of a prohibited weapon after police said they found several firearms in his apartment during an emergency search warrant.
Matheny’s defense attorney, Albert Amissah, motioned to sever Matheny’s trial due to concerns that being tried with the other two defendants would unfairly prejudice Matheny. Judge McLean concluded severance wasn’t necessary to ensure a fair trial and denied the motion.
Chantal Jean-Baptiste, Mathis’ defense attorney, also raised concerns about a shotgun that was recently turned over as evidence. She asked for more information about why its existence was disclosed so late.
Parties decided to discuss the various motions the morning of the trial, which is set to begin Sept. 9.
The prosecution also mentioned a plea deal previously offered to the defendants. According to the prosecutor, the defendants countered the offer. Terms of the offer were not discussed during the hearing.
The status of the plea offer will also be discussed prior to the trial.
Parties are set to reconvene on Sept. 9 to discuss these matters and begin trial.
