DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan released a defendant on Nov. 19 to home confinement in a parking garage homicide case.
Lavar Hunter, 21, is charged with first-degree murder while armed, attempt to commit robbery, and two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 24-year-old Anwar Wingate on the 2100 block of 8th Street, NW, on Nov 19, 2023.
According to court documents, Wingate died from a single bullet to his neck while in a parking garage.
During the hearing, Judge Ryan granted the defense attorney J.C. Boggs’ motion for release after receiving additional information from the Pretrial Services Agency (PSA). Boggs was standing in for Hunter’s assigned attorney, James King.
A representative from PSA was able to assure that the home confinement location was confirmed, the owner of the property granted permission, and that all parties understood the responsibilities involved with the GPS monitor maintenance.
Judge Ryan informed the court that this was a serious crime and not a decision that he made lightly. However, he based his decision on the compromise between public safety and not unjustly holding someone beyond what is legally permitted.
Judge Ryan also recognized that past judges have denied the motion for release for Hunter twice before. However, he maintained that he must make decisions based on his own interpretation of the facts of the case.
Judge Ryan warned Hunter that he must follow the rules of the home confinement to maintain public safety. If he is able to do so, Judge Ryan explained that he would consider possible expanding his home confinement conditions.
The prosecution argued that they would not like to provide a list of witnesses for a stay away-order to protect the witnesses.
Judge Ryan asked Hunter to not contact anyone involved in the case in person, through the phone, or through a third party. Judge Ryan will re-evaluate Hunter if any issues arise.
Parties are slated to reconvene Dec. 18.
