DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park issued a bench warrant for a homicide defendant held in Georgia for another case on April 15.
Dijon Williams, 26, is charged with conspiracy, first-degree murder while armed with aggravating circumstances, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business, and attempted to commit robbery while armed. These charges stem from his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 30-year-old Nurudeen Thomas on the 4100 block of 14th Street, NW, on July 21, 2020.
Prosecutors stated Williams’ case in Georgia has not been scheduled for a preliminary hearing, and no trial date is expected until next year unless a special request is made. The prosecution explained they are in contact with Georgia authorities, but have limited information about the timeline of proceedings.
The prosecution requested a bench warrant to ensure Williams’ return to DC, citing uncertainties surrounding his release and the need to make progress in the DC case. David Knight, Williams’ attorney, opposed the request, noting that they had no concrete information about the status of the Georgia case, but that it could potentially be dismissed or updated within the next week.
Judge Park granted the prosecution’s request, issuing the bench warrant and noting the importance of tracking developments in Williams’ Georgia case.
The judge also discussed the next steps depending on Williams’ custodial status. If released in the Georgia case, the court will address how to ensure his appearance in DC. If he remains detained, the parties will work to coordinate his transfer ahead of his trial in DC, scheduled for Sept. 22.
The parties were instructed to keep Judge Park updated on any developments in the Georgia case.
Parties are slated to reconvene on May 14.
