DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park denied defense’s motion to withdraw as counsel, and cautioned a homicide defendant to not make a rash decision regarding his trial date on April 21.
Deonte Spicer, 39, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction greater than a year for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of Tyvez Monroe, 27, at the L’Enfant Plaza Metro Station on the 600 block of Maryland Avenue, SW on Dec. 26, 2023. Monroe sustained a gunshot to the head.
During the hearing, Spicer’s attorney, Daniel Dorsey, filed a motion to withdraw from the case. Judge Park stated if Dorsey withdrew, it would be the sixth attorney that has pulled out of Spicer’s case.
The prosecution said they were ready for the trial scheduled on July 6 and if Judge Park rescheduled it, they would not be able to commit to another date in 2026.
Dorsey, Spicer, and Judge Park spoke privately before Judge Park denied the defense’s motion without prejudice, meaning Dorsey can refile at a later date. Dorsey then indicated that his client wished to assert his rights under the Innocence Protection Act (IPA), allowing defendants to independently test DNA evidence before trial.
The prosecution stated that they needed to go through correspondence regarding the IPA hearing with the previous defense council, but had no objection. Judge Park granted the defense’s request and stated he would look into appointing a second chair defense attorney to the case.
Judge Park suggested vacating the original trial date in July, offering to reschedule for March 29, 2027. Spicer objected, claiming he no longer needs the independent DNA test, and would rather have his trial in July.
“I’m the one in jail suffering and y’all are picking dates like I’m not in jail,” Spicer said.
Judge Park reminded Spicer that the July trial was no longer an option and a co-counsel would not be prepared for the March trial date. Spicer then inquired about one of his previous defense attorneys, Marnitta King, stating that she was involved in the case from the start.
Judge Park replied that King was temporarily suspended from the practice of law, and would not be able to contribute to his defense. Judge Park cautioned Spicer about making an impulsive decision, urging him to discuss the matter with Dorsey.
Parties are slated to reconvene on April 24.
