DC Superior Court Judge Danya Dayson denied a murder defendant’s motion to sever from his codefendant and set a new trial date on Oct. 24.
Eric Sheffield, 20, and D’Andre Montgomery, 19, are charged with conspiracy, first-degree murder while armed, felony murder with aggravating circumstances, assault with intent to kill while armed, four counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, attempt to commit robbery while armed, unauthorized use of a vehicle during a crime of violence, and carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or place of business.
The charges stem from their alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 28-year-old Kenneth Barksdale Jr., on Dec. 16, 2023, on the 1200 block of 44th Place, SE. Another individual sustained life-threatening injuries, but survived.
According to court records, Sheffield’s defense attorney, Nathaniel Mensah, motioned for continuance of the trial for paternity leave. Due to scheduling conflicts, the trial was pushed to August 2027.
Sylvia Smith, Montgomery’s defense attorney, motioned for severance, arguing that the continuance violates her client’s speedy trial rights. Smith also argued that the two defendants’ cases are different and it would be unfair to Montgomery to be tried at the same time as Sheffield.
The prosecution voiced that they want to try the defendants together for efficiency.
Judge Dayson agreed, saying that the current lack of judicial resources makes efficiency a top priority. She also said that the trial has been delayed for reasons other than the continuance, so Smith’s argument for severance is not enough.
Judge Dayson denied the severance, but kept the April 2026 date open so Smith can file another severance motion with a stronger argument.
Parties are set to reconvene on Dec. 12.
