Approximately one month before a 2019 murder case was set to go to trial, the defendant accepted a plea deal.
Diquan Lucas pleaded guilty to shooting 33-year-old Brian Butler in his apartment on the 2100 Block of I Street, NE. On Sept. 9, 2019, Lucas entered the apartment and saw Butler in the living area. An argument broke out between the two which quickly became physical. Lucas then pulled out his gun and shot Butler several times, according to court documents. The 25-year-old defendant was initially charged with second-degree murder while armed.
Lucas pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter on March 11. The defense is petitioning for him to be sentenced under the Youth Rehabilitation Act, which would allow his case to be sealed if he successfully completes his sentence.
Defense attorney Roderick Thompson and the prosecutor agreed to recommend an eight-year prison sentence.
DC Superior Court Judge Milton Lee accepted the plea and scheduled Lucas to be sentenced on June 16.
