DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman delayed an ongoing jury trial for a homicide defendant on Feb. 9.
Jakiem Miller, 27, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed, two counts of assault with intent to kill while armed, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon while armed, five counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, unlawful possession of a firearm with prior crime of violence, and obstructing justice for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of Avon Perkins. The incident occurred on Dec. 17, 2022 on the 1600 block of Belmont Street, NW.
On the fourth day of Miller’s trial, Judge Edelman informed parties and the jurors that the trial would be delayed until next Tuesday due to an attorney’s personal emergency.
As a result of the delay, parties agreed to a set of stipulations that would replace testimony of witnesses that prosecutors planned to call.
Miller agreed that he was the person Perkins punched in the video footage, and that the DNA evidence was inconclusive. Additionally, Miller agreed to witnesses testifying virtually if necessary.
According to prosecutors, they have 13 more witnesses that are expected to testify. Miller’s defense counsel said they anticipate about half a day of testimony from their witnesses.
Parties are expected to reconvene on Feb. 17.
