Judge Sentences Man to Time Served for Traffic Fatality

By D.C. Witness Staff - January 22, 2019
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Suspects |

A judge sentenced a murder defendant Jan. 22 to time served. According to the defense, their client was imprisoned for nearly three years, which is the maximum sentence that can be imposed.

In October, Lorenzo Davis pleaded guilty to negligent homicide for his role in the death of 28-year-old Jacqueline Barnes on the 4100 block of Alabama Avenue, SE in 2015.

According to a proffer of facts, during a rainstorm, Davis, 50, sped down Alabama Avenue, lost control of his car, mounted a curb, crashing into a tree. Apparently, Barnes was thrown from the vehicle during the crash. Davis fled the scene. According to the prosecution, there was no evidence that Davis attempted to stop the car or avoid colliding with the tree.

During the hearing, the prosecution spoke on behalf of Barnes’ family, who was not present during the hearing. According to the prosecution, Barnes has three kids, who struggle emotionally in her absence.

“A human life was taken because of the defendant’s negligence,” the prosecution said.

“She never really had a chance,” Barnes’ aunt told the prosecution. Apparently, Barnes was abandoned by her parents and was ultimately raised by family members. The aunt said Barnes struggled with issues her whole life.

Davis expressed remorse, taking responsibility for his role in Barnes’ death.

Defense attorney Pierce Suen notified the court that his client had been held in prison for 993 days. Suen also said that upon his client’s release, he will be extradited to Maryland for charges stemming from a probation violation.

Prior to delivering her sentence,  DC Superior Court Judge Danya Dayson acknowledged Davis’ pending case and noted his criminal history. According to Judge Dayson, Davis has multiple convictions, including a 1996 hit and run and a 1997 attempted murder case.

Davis will serve three years on supervised release.