DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park granted defense attorneys more time to respond to mental health findings in a nearly decade-old case on Nov. 7, despite the prosecutor’s objections and plans to retire soon.
Daryl Thompson, 36, is charged with two counts of first-degree murder while armed, assault with intent to kill while armed, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, three counts of unlawful possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, three counts of carrying a pistol without a license outside home or business, obstructing justice and threat to kidnap or injure a person.
The charges stem from his alleged involvement in the Aug. 29, 2016 fatal shooting of Tyler Jerel McEachern, 23, and an attempted kidnapping of another victim on the 3100 block of Buena Vista Terrace SE. He’s also charged for his alleged involvement in the July 30, 2016 fatal shooting of Edward Roberts, 29, and an assault on the 3500 block of 14th Street, NW.
Defense attorneys Mani Golzari and Dana Page requested additional time to consult with experts and prepare an opposing motion related to the Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) finding that Thompson was initially competent–a motion opposed by the prosecution. Golzari and Page proposed that the next hearing be scheduled for January 2026 to allow for adequate preparation.
To stand trial, a defendant must be mentally competent enough understand the charges against help and help his attorney.
The prosecution objected, noting that they plan to retire soon and emphasizing that the case has “been kicking around since 2016.”
The prosecutor argued that the issue at hand was limited in scope and could be resolved quickly, suggesting that a 30-day period would be sufficient to address the disagreement between the two parties. The prosecutor explained that both sides generally agree Thompson should receive inpatient treatment through DBH, but differ on whether he should be placed in single-cell housing.
“This is a narrow issue,” the prosecutor said, urging a more expedited timeline. Judge Park ultimately granted the defense’s request, setting the due date for the opposing motion in January 2026. However, the judge acknowledged the prosecution’s concerns, stating that the case “has been around for far too long,” recognizing its nearly nine-year duration.
Throughout the hearing, Thompson repeatedly voiced frustration over what he described as being denied “six minutes” to speak directly with the judge in a previous proceeding. At the conclusion of the hearing, Judge Park permitted Thompson a brief opportunity to speak, reminding him that his attorneys could more effectively communicate his concerns to the court.
Thompson made several unrelated statements referencing his family, the First Amendment, and an alleged FBI investigation involving his father. He also mentioned “boot camp,” “desegregation,” and being “evicted from facilities.” At the end of his remarks, Thompson raised a sheet of paper he had held throughout the hearing, asking that it be entered into the record and requesting to be released.
The parties are slated to reconvene on Feb. 20, 2026.
