Judge Denies Motion to Release Powell Before Trial

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A judge denied Jan. 24 a defense attorney’s request for a murder defendent to be released prior to his trial.

Tyrell Powell, 22, a resident of Southeast, DC, was charged with first-degree murder while armed for allegedly shooting 22-year-old Semaj Alsobrooks. The shooting occurred on the 3900 block of East Capitol Street, NE on Sept. 4, 2019.

This is the second time DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman has denied release. Judge Edelman said the release was denied because he found, in November of 2019, that there was probable cause that Powell, who is also known as Marco D Powell, committed the murder. 

During the status conference, Powell also switched attorneys. Pierce Suen and Jason Tulley will represent him in place of Judith Pipe.  

Powell is scheduled for another felony status conference on Feb. 28.

A trial date has not been set.

Corrine Simon wrote this story.