A homicide defendant asked to represent himself in court despite a finding he was incompetent to do so in a hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz on Nov. 14.
Marcus Barringer, 34, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder, two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, three counts of firearm possession during a crime of violence, six counts of possession of a large capacity ammunition feeding device, and two counts of unlawful firearm possession with a prior conviction, unlawful possession of ammunition, carrying a pistol without a license outside of a home or business, obstructing justice via harassment, and obstructing justice by influencing a witness or officer.
These charges stem from Barringer’s alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of Rashad Davis, 32, on the 2300 block of Nicholson Street, SE, on May 6, 2022.
During the hearing, Judge Kravitz discussed a Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) report, which stated that Barringer was competent to stand for trial, but not competent to waive his right to counsel and represent himself. Judge Kravitz said he would authorize court funds to reevaluate competency if Barringer disagreed with the finding.
Barringer responded that DBH was corrupt and racist. “I’m being harassed at this point,” he told the judge, and said that the court was trying to violate his rights.
He said that he represented himself in previous cases in Virginia and Maryland. He claimed it was pointless to wait for an expert to evaluate him.
Judge Kravitz gave the defense time to decide if they wanted to challenge the DBH report and allow Barringer to waive his right to counsel.
Parties are slated to reconvene on Jan. 30.
