US Marshals alerted DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz that a murder defendant arrived at the courthouse but refused to leave the bus for his hearing on March 5.
Jeremiah Evans, 22, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 18-year-old Khalliqo Ford at the 200 block of K Street, SW on June 15, 2023.
According to court documents, Ford was found in a parking lot and died from multiple gunshot wounds. Two witnesses reported that the shooting happened after a dispute among themselves, Evans, and Ford. The witnesses said they watched Evans pull Ford into a parking lot, indicated in court documents. CCTV surveillance footage reportedly captured what appeared to be an argument between Evans and Ford, resulting in Evans allegedly raising his weapon and shooting Ford multiple times.
In court, the parties intended to discuss with Evans his concerns about his lawyer, Stephen LoGerfo, and whether he wanted new representation. However, US Marshals informed the court that Evans wouldn’t enter the courthouse.
Judge Kravitz noted that defendant’s refusals to attend court had become more frequent in his courtroom. LoGerfo agreed, suggesting that the early wake-up call for defendants traveling from the jail might be a deterrent.
LoGerfo said Evans told him at their last meeting, “Please don’t make me come to court.”
According to LoGerfo, Evans did not express a desire for him to withdraw as counsel. Judge Kravitz emphasized that Evans needed to be present and convey the information himselfd.
The parties intend to resolve the issue when Evans is present at court.
Parties are slated to reconvene on March 11.
