A murder defendant pleaded guilty before DC Superior Court Judge Danya Dayson on Nov. 7.
Stephen Herring, 25, was originally charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed and carrying a dangerous weapon outside of a home or business for his alleged involvement in the fatal stabbing of 30-year-old Marcus Thurman on the 100 block of M Street, NE, on Aug. 22, 2023.
According to court documents, his charges changed several times. He was initially charged with assault with intent to kill, which was upgraded to first-degree murder and carrying a dangerous weapon after Thurman died from his injuries on Sept. 4, 2023.
During the hearing, Herring said he may have difficulty understanding the proceedings due to comprehension issues. He consulted with defense attorneys Joseph Yarbough and Hannah Claudio several times in order to knowingly enter the plea.
Herring pleaded guilty to second-degree murder while armed in exchange for the greater charges being dropped. Through the deal, parties agreed to a sentencing range of 18-to-22 years in prison.
Parties are set to reconvene for sentencing on Jan. 30.
