A homicide defendant waived his constitutional right to require that a DNA technician testify in person, opting instead to allow her to do it virtually on July 1 before DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park.
Desmond Barr, 25, is charged with second-degree murder while armed, possession of firearm during crime of violence and unlawful possession of a firearm, for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of Ambria Farmer, 23, on July 13, 2024 on the 3300 block of Fort Dupont Drive, SE. All charges have an aggravating factor of being committed during release.
Barr appeared at the hearing virtually while en route to a medical appointment and waived his right to cross-examine a witness, a DNA technician, in person.
Judge Park explained that the DNA expert is expected to be in Nigeria during Barr’s trial, and that the prosecution had requested a deposition in lieu of her testimony. Because Barr has the constitutional right to confront witnesses against him, he can also waive that right in order to have them testify virtually.
The prosecution, who also appeared virtually, described that the witness’ immigration status would not allow her to reenter the country during the trial, which is scheduled for Jan. 25, 2027. She analyzed the case while on a work visa focused on technical aspects of DNA.
Parties are slated to reconvene Sept. 11.
