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D.C. Witness Staff
- June 29, 2016
Court
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Homicides
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Suspects
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A trial for the man charged with the murder of Darryn Conte has been set for June 2017.
Mark Beasley, 42, has been charged with first-degree murder for allegedly fatally shooting Conte last April.
Judge Jose Lopez’s decision to scheduled the trial for the summer next year came after both sides argued the date. In Beasley’s status hearing this week, the prosecution and defense discussed DNA found on the alleged murder weapon. Prosecutors said they are able to move forward with the trial as soon as the defense receives the DNA results, which are expected on July 8. Attorney Katerina Semyonova, on behalf of Beasley, argued that the defense needs more time to process this evidence, and if the trial is rushed, Beasley’s right to a fair trial would be infringed.
The prosecution insisted on putting jury selection in motion and informed Lopez they foresee the trial lasting close to two weeks with cross examinations. Lopez said the first time he had available for a two-week trial was in June.
“That’s the best I can give you,” Lopez said. Both parties agreed to the date.
Beasley is due back in court May 5, 2017 for a trial readiness hearing. He is being held without bail in the interim.