A teen, charged with killing his girlfriend and a House of Representatives intern, pleaded not guilty to all charges before DC Superior Court Judge Danya Dayson on Oct. 30.
Naqwan Lucas, 18, his brother Jailen Lucas, 16, and Kelvin Thomas, 16, are charged with conspiracy, first-degree premeditated murder while armed in a drive-by or random shooting, four counts of assault with intent to kill while armed, three counts of aggravated assault knowingly while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, and nine counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of a House of Representatives intern, 21-year-old Eric Tarpinian-Jachym.
The incident occurred on June 30 on the 1200 block of 7th Street, NW, and injured a woman and a 16-year-old boy.
Naqwan is also charged with first-degree premeditated murder, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, obstruction of justice, tampering with physical evidence, destruction of property, and second-degree theft for his alleged involvement in the death of 17-year-old Zoey Kelley on July 4 on the 1700 block of Benning Road, NE.
According to the United States Attorney’s Office (USAO), Kelley was Naqwan’s girlfriend. He was arrested on Oct. 29 in Maryland, while his co-defendants were arrested in September.
During the hearing, Michelle Lockard, who stood-in for Naqwan’s attorney, Steven Kiersh, alerted the court of his intent to plead not guilty to all charges and asserted his constitutional rights, including the right to a speedy trial.
Lockard also requested Naqwan be released. The prosecution quickly objected, and stated parties should set a detention hearing in order to have witnesses testify to aid the parties’ arguments.
Parties are slated to reconvene Nov. 7.
