Parties in a homicide case set a new trial date after the defendant rejected a plea deal before DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan on March 26.
Robert Carpenter, 37, is charged with second-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction. The charges stem from his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 42-year-old Tremaine Nicholson on the 3400 block of 25th Street, SE on May 7, 2024.
Prior to the hearing, prosecutors extended a deal to Carpenter, in which he would plead guilty to voluntary manslaughter while armed. If the judge were to accept the plea, Carpenter would be sentenced to seven-to-12 years in prison. After discussing the plea offer with his attorneys, Christen Philips and David Knight, Carpenter decided to reject the deal.
Parties went back and forth, attempting to decide when all were available. An agreement to begin trial on Jan. 19, 2027, was eventually reached.
Parties will reconvene on Nov. 6 for a status hearing.
