Murder Defendant Waives Right to Independent DNA Testing Ahead of Trial

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A murder defendant waived his right to independently test DNA evidence ahead of his trial. 

Maurice Johnson, 23, allegedly shot 38-year-old Lamar Walters on Jan. 6, 2020, on the 2400 block of Franklin Street, NE. Lamar suffered multiple gunshot wounds to the body and succumbed to his injuries later that day. 

Defendants in the District of Columbia who are accused of violent crimes have a right to independently test DNA evidence obtained during the investigation.

According to the prosecution, over 200 pieces of evidence was collected in the case, but the only evidence tested was a battery attachment from a flashlight. 

During the July 15 hearing, defense attorney Jason Clark confirmed that the defense won’t be testing any of the material. 

DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt accepted Johnson’s request to waiver his rights. 

The next hearing is scheduled for Nov. 18.

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