A defendant pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder at an arraignment before DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park on May 29.
Kareem Thomas, 37, 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 23-year-old Jakele Allen on Oct. 21, 2024 on the 800 block of Kentucky Avenue, SE. Allen died from a gunshot wound to his chest.
The court formally arraigned Thomas reading the charges against him. Quiana Harris, Thomas’ attorney, entered into a not guilty plea on his behalf, asserted his rights to a speedy trial, and requested evidence in the case.
Harris indicated that she was recently appointed to the case and asked for time to file a motion for Thomas’ release. The prosecutor, also recently appointed, and Judge Park had no objections to Harris’ request for time.
The parties are scheduled to reconvene on Aug. 14.
