Judge Dismisses Nail File Stabbing Case As Indictment Lags

DC Superior Court Judge Judith Pipe dismissed a stabbing case on July 22.

Tania Murphy, 26, was charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for her alleged involvement in a stabbing at the 2000 block of Georgia Avenue, NW on Oct. 31, 2025.

According to court documents, the stabbing stemmed from a fight where Murphy allegedly stabbed the victim in the stomach with a sharp object described as a black nail filer.

In a previous hearing on March 23, Murphy’s attorney Camille Wagner, asked to dismiss the case, but withdrew her request after confirming there was no evidence she had not received.

At the hearing, the prosecution asked for another hearing before the nine-month indictment deadline on Aug. 9. Judge Pipe did not think allowing the prosecution another week would meaningfully change the situation before their deadline.

No further dates were set.

Teen Defendant Pleads Guilty to Gun Possession in a Non-Fatal Shooting

In a hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Deborah Israel on July 22, a young defendant accepted a plea deal for gun possession.

Jeremiah Crowder, 18, is charged with carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business for his involvement in a shooting that occurred on May 10 on the 1900 block of 17th Street, SE. No injuries were reported.

According to court documents, the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) responded to a call of shots fired.

At the hearing, Crowder accepted a plea offer presented by the prosecution, pleading guilty to the charge against him.

As part of the plea agreement the prosecution agreed to not seek an indictment with greater or additional charges related to the offense. Crowder must also register as a gun offender for two years following his sentence.

According to the prosecution, two witnesses were present at the scene of the crime. The first witness saw Crowder hide a firearm under a mattress, and later return to retrieve it. The second witness provided MPD with security camera footage of the alleyway where the incident took place. In the footage, shots were fired from a group that included Crowder.

While MPD was investigating the crime scene, four casings, and two unspent bullets were collected. Later during the investigation, Crowder returned to the alleyway, and both witnesses identified him as the suspect.

Crowder’s attorney, Charles Haskell, stated that he intended to argue for the Youth Rehabilitation Act (YRA) in sentencing. The YRA gives the court enhanced flexibility in sentencing for an individual who was under the age of 25 at the time of the crime, and the ability to seal a conviction from public view upon completion of sentencing requirements.

Parties are slated to reconvene for sentencing on Oct. 14.

Psychologists Debate Homicide Defendant’s Mental Competency to Stand Trial

Expert witnesses came to different conclusions during a contested competency hearing for a homicide defendant before DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan on July 21.

Dayshawn Nolan, 23, is charged with second-degree murder while armed for his alleged involvement in a fatal arson that occurred on July 3, 2022 at the 400 Block of Condon Terrace SE. The victim, Antoinette Davis, was immediately transported to the hospital following the arrival of firefighters, but later succumbed to her injuries on July 17, 2022.

Both the prosecution and defense had Nolan, who is diagnosed with an intellectual and developmental disability, separately tested for mental competence to see if he was fit to stand trial. To stand trial, Nolan must understand the charges against him and be able to assist in his defense.

In the second day of testimony for a contested competency screening, the prosecution’s expert, a clinical psychologist, was questioned by defense attorney Christen Romero Philips. The questioning focused on five evaluations the witness conducted on Nolan between May 2025 and April 2026. Each assessment consisted of four areas of questioning.

First, Nolan’s knowledge of plea deals and his previous convictions. Second, was Nolan’s understanding of the purpose and role of the prosecution and the judge. Third, was a series of hypothetical questions used to determine Nolan’s understanding of legal knowledge and if-then-statements. Finally, was Nolan’s ability to assist his attorneys and cooperate in a trial.

During the first three evaluations, the witness found Nolan incompetent to stand trial due to a lack of adaptive functioning – the practical, social, and conceptual skills people learn to navigate daily life. However, after an October 2025 assessment, the witness cited continued growth and development in Nolan’s adaptive functioning skills, specifically his social interactions. Nolan’s understanding of legal procedures also improved over the course of the assessments.

Through conducting her own evaluations, and a review of the documentation of additional evaluations done by Saint Elizabeths Hospital that houses psychiatric defendants, the prosecution’s expert ultimately concluded Nolan was competent to stand trial.

To support Nolan’s competence, the prosecution’s expert recommended a series of accommodations to aid him through trial.

They include simplifying legal terms, having Nolan write down any questions he might have so they can be answered during breaks or after hearings, or having someone sit with Nolan during trial to give him a play-by-play of what was happening.

Philips then asked the witness if she had been implented these accommodations during her testimony to aid Nolan, who was present in the courtroom, in understanding what was happening.

The witness responded, “No.”

Philips then used this as a segue to discuss the difficulty of implementing the suggested accommodations, pointing out flaws in each suggestion. The witness then concluded that many of these suggestions needed to be more thoroughly thought out if they were to be used, but they were a step in the right direction.

Nolan’s other attorney, Kayva Naini, re-called the defense’s expert, a clinical neuropsychologist and professor of psychiatry and neurobehavioral science, who testified that he believed Nolan’s greatest hindrance was his ability to comprehend information shared in court.

“Yes, he’s got multiple deficits but the verbal reasoning is the most important in determining competence,” the defense’s expert said.

During his testimony, Naini introduced a 2017 psychoeducational assessment of Nolan. The defense’s expert explained the report showed he fell into the first percentile, virtually the lowest score, on the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale, which measures adaptive functioning.

While the prosecution’s expert said Nolan’s social skills had improved, the defense’s witness testified that he found this was one of his weakest skills.

On cross-examination from the prosecution, the defense’s expert clarified that this report was completed when Nolan was between 14-and-15-years-old. When questioned by the prosecution if many individuals mature between this age and Nolan’s current age, 23, he agreed.

Both the prosecution and the defense plan to submit brief written arguments by the end of the week, allowing Judge Ryan to rule on Nolan’s competency.

Parties are slated to reconvene July 22 for a bond review hearing.

Defendant Won’t Appear Before Judge in Homicide Case

A homicide defendant in a gang-related mass shooting case failed to appear before DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan on July 21.

Jorden McClaine, 18, is charged with conspiracy, two counts of premeditated first-degree murder while armed with aggravated circumstances, two counts of assault with intent to kill while armed, and four counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence. The charges stem from his alleged involvement in a July 18, 2024 mass shooting that killed 29-year-old Lamont Street and 50-year-old Jermaine Proctor on the 3200 block of 22nd Street, SE. The shooting injured two additional victims.

McClaine is also charged with assault with intent to kill and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting on Feb. 22, 2023 on the 2200 block of Alabama Avenue, SE.

McClaine is charged alongside Marquis Middleton Jr., 19, Andre Greene, 27, and Dionzai Parker, 22, who were not present at this hearing.

Before his hearing, McClaine refused to leave the DC Jail to be transported to the courthouse. US Marshals, who assist in the transportation of defendants, hurried to understand the situation, and communicate with Judge Ryan.

“Did he refuse to get out of his cell? Did he refuse to get on the bus? These are detail-important events,” said Judge Ryan.

At the previous hearing, Judge Ryan granted McClaine’s motion’s for a new defense attorney. Since then, Peter Odom was appointed by Judge Ryan as counsel.

Odom expressed that he had tried to visit McClaine at the DC Jail the day prior but was “not successful in doing so.” He indicated that he will attempt another visit during the week or next.

Parties are slated to reconvene on July 30.

Homicide Defendant Wants Release to North Carolina Pending Trial

A homicide defendant on release requested to move to North Carolina before DC Superior Court Judge Danya Dayson on July 17.

Jeremiah Simms, 26, is charged with felony murder while armed, first-degree premeditated murder while armed, assault with intent to kill while armed, four counts of possession firearm during crime of violence, carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business, and destruction of property $1,000 or more, for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 44-year-old Erik Mewborn, on Sept. 14, 2024, on the 2200 block of Adams Place, NE. Mewborn sustained one gunshot wound to his head.

Simms’ attorney, Brandi Harden, requested the court alter Simms’ GPS monitoring to North Carolina so he can move in with his girlfriend. Harden explained that Simms’ release conditions of home confinement and GPS monitoring would remain the same.

“He’s shown a pattern that he can comply with court orders,” Harden said. She emphasized that Simms’ compliance has lasted for two years. Harden also explained that he is planning on obtaining employment in North Carolina.

A representative from the Pretrial Services Agency (PSA), present remotely, said they do not normally provide courtesy supervision for situations like this, but if Judge Dayson orders it they will comply.

Judge Dayson allowed the prosecution 14 days to file a written response to Harden’s request before she makes her decision.

Harden also requested Simms’ curfew be lifted which Judge Dayson denied.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Nov. 9.

Judge Sentences Defendant to 22-Plus Years for 2020 Fatal Shooting

DC Superior Court Judge Danya Dayson sentenced a fatal shooting defendant to 22 years and six months in prison on July 17.

Jamil Whitley, 38, was convicted by a jury on May 12 of second-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business, and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction, for his involvement in the fatal shooting of 32-year-old Kevin Redd on the 4700 block of Jay Street, NE, on June 11, 2020. Redd sustained gunshot wounds to his chest, shoulder, and forearm.

Before Judge Dayson delivered the sentence, Redd’s family spoke about the impact his death had on them and the community.

“I came up here to say, you don’t even know what losing your father could do to a boy,” Redd’s son said, “the night that my father died, I stayed up all night, my father never came home.”

The prosecution requested 35 years and four months of imprisonment, which is the maximum sentence within Whitley’s sentencing guidelines.

“Violent conduct of this magnitude deserves the strongest response our justice system can deliver,” said US Attorney Jeanine Pirro in a press release on July 17.

At the sentencing, the prosecution questioned the credibility of the pre-sentence report and letters of support submitted on Whitley’s behalf.

“We are not here because he might be something special to his family,” the prosecutor said, “you get punished for when you violate [the] things you are supposed to do.”

In addition, the prosecution highlighted Whitley’s criminal history. Whitley has both a felony and misdemeanor conviction, along with multiple release violations. The prosecutor alleged that Whitley has an arrest for almost every year of his adult life, apart from the time when he was incarcerated.

“Instead of learning from prior convictions… he only attempted to get smarter, get around the laws,” the prosecutor said.

In trial, the prosecution claimed that Whitley intentionally covered his face to avoid cameras during the incident. They also presented evidence that Whitley followed the investigation online and searched the internet about how to fix a hole in a car.

Whitely’s attorneys, Madalyn Harvey and James Brockway, requested a 13-year prison sentence.

“Its rare that I have a case where the [prosecution] is so clearly bothered by a sentencing report,” Harvey said.

Harvey contributed this rarity to Whitley being a “likeable client.” She emphasized that the qualities pointed out by the pre-sentence reporter are corroborated in the letters of support for Whitley.

The defense said that Whitley’s criminal history is not violent and the arrests referenced by the prosecution never amounted to trials. They also denied that Whitley attempted to cover up the incident.

“I understand the jury convicted Mr. Whitley, we maintain his innocence,” Harvey said.

Whitley did not make a statement, stating that his counsel advised him not to.

“This is a quite serious crime and I think that it is deserving of a quite lengthy sentence,” Judge Dayson said.

The judge sentenced Whitley to a total of 22 years and six months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release. Whitley will serve 17-and-a-half years for murder, five years for possession during a crime of violence, one-and-a-half years for carrying a pistol, and one-and-a-half-years for unlawful possession. The possession offenses will run concurrent with each other and consecutive to the murder charge.

Immediately after the sentencing, US Marshals arrested Redd’s son for his alleged involvement in an armed robbery.

No further dates were set for Whitley.

Defendant Pleads Not Guilty at Arraignment in Reopened Jail Stabbing Case

A stabbing defendant pleaded not guilty during an arraignment hearing in front of DC Superior Court Judge Carmen McLean on July 20.

Jumel Rhodes, 25, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon, that is, a sharp object, for his alleged involvement in a stabbing that occurred on the 1900 block of D Street, SE at the DC Jail on June 4, 2025. The victim sustained injuries to his forehead, ear, neck, and chest.

Rhodes’ case was closed on May 21 after Judge McLean dismissed the charge for lack of probable cause. The case was then presented to a grand jury that determined probable cause to indict Rhodes. The case was reopened on June 17.

Rhodes is currently on release, but the prosecution argued for his detention noting the violent nature of the crime and “repeated stabbing” that reportedly occurred.

The prosecution was unable to provide further information about identifying Rhodes as the suspect, which is the reason Judge McLean originally dismissed the case.

“In considering detention I’d expect to hear information that this was actually the defendant,” Judge McLean said.

Judge McLean also mentioned that if Rhodes is the correct suspect, there should be “a number of people” who could correctly identify him.

Judge McLean instructed Rhodes to report to the Pretrial Services Agency (PSA) as directed. Parties are scheduled to reconvene on Sept. 10.

Judge Okays Murder Defendant’s Release to Find Employment

DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan modified a murder defendant’s release conditions on July 17, allowing him to search for work after months of compliance.

Jordan Battle, 25, is charged with with first-degree premeditated murder while armed, second-degree cruelty to children grave risk while armed, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and obstructing justice for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 18-year-old Terrell Oliver on the 2600 block of Stanton Road, SE, on Dec. 18, 2024.

At an earlier hearing on Feb. 13, Judge Ryan modified Battle’s release conditions to enable him to attend weekly church services with the family he is staying with.

Judge Ryan read over the report filed by the Pretrial Services Agency (PSA) on July 15, detailing Battle’s “perfect compliance.” According to the report, Battle has had no electronic monitoring infractions, has not violated his stay-away order, and has been attending weekly PSA meetings.

Defense attorney Kevin O’Sullivan filed a July 15 motion seeking to modify Battle’s release conditions, arguing that home confinement is “not truly necessary” after eight months of perfect compliance. O’Sullivan agreed to keep Battle on electronic monitoring and maintain the stay-away order from DC, but proposed a new curfew of 9 a. m. to 9 p. m. to allow him to search for a job in Virginia.

The prosecution argued that Battle’s second-degree cruelty to children charge had already raised concerns about allowing him to attend church because minors were present, and expressed similar concerns about him working in retail settings. She maintained that because Battle’s circumstances had not changed, there was no basis to modify his release conditions.

Judge Ryan stated that his primary concerns were the danger Battle might pose to the community and whether he would return to court. However, he noted that Battle’s compliance with the conditions of his release weighed in favor of modifying those conditions.

Judge Ryan ruled that Battle can leave home confinement for up to four hours each weekday to search for a job. If Battle secures a job, he may leave his house during his work hours as long as they are not after 10 p. m. or before 8 a. m.

The prosecution requested additional oversight, asking that Battle’s host family verify when he leaves home for job interviews. Judge Ryan declined the request and maintained his ruling, claiming he did not see a basis for the prosecutor’s request.

O’Sullivan told Judge Ryan that he had previously proposed a plea offer to resolve the case and that the prosecution had responded with a counteroffer. He said he needed additional time to discuss the options with Battle.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Sept. 11.

Shooting Defendant Pleads Guilty in DC Case, Judge Worries About Maryland Warrant

A shooting defendant accepted a plea deal that carries a prison sentence between 30-and-60 months on July 21 before DC Superior Court Judge Judith Pipe.

Jamarie Long, 24, was originally charged with aggravated assault knowingly while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his involvement in a shooting on May 10, 2025, at the 800 block of T Street, NW.

At the hearing, Long accepted a plea deal from prosecutors that required him to plead guilty to aggravated assault and carrying a pistol without a license. The prosecution agreed not to pursue any further charges against Long related to the offense.

As part of the plea deal, parties agreed to the stipulated sentence, subject to Judge Pipe’s approval. Judge Pipe also noted that Long’s attorney, Susan Ellis, could ask for all but six months of his sentence suspended.

According to the prosecution, if the case proceeded to trial, the evidence would have proven that Long was armed with a pistol when he got out of his car and shot at the victim’s car, wounding him. The prosecution also asserted that Long did not have a license for his pistol.

After Judge Pipe confirmed Long accepted the plea agreement knowingly and voluntarily, Ellis asked for Long’s release to home confinement with GPS monitoring. Ellis noted his criminal record of no prior convictions except for one pending case in Maryland.

Judge Pipe said that she did not have the authority to place Long on GPS monitoring. She added, “I am concerned about the Maryland case,” due to the seriousness of the charges, before ruling against Long’s release.

According to the judge and Ellis, Long has an extraditable warrant in the Maryland case because of a complication where his name was misspelled. Judge Pipe revealed that if she released Long on GPS monitoring, his monitor would be removed in the process of settling his Maryland warrant.

If not for the complications from his Maryland warrant, Judge Pipe said she would have been inclined to release Long.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on Sep. 25 for Long’s sentencing.

Stabbing Defendant Mentally Competent for Trial, Transferred Out of Psychiatric Hospital

A domestic violence stabbing defendant was found mentally competent to stand trial and transferred to the DC Jail before DC Superior Court Judge Carmen McLean on July 20.

Denita Harris, 30, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon, that is, a knife, for her alleged involvement in a stabbing that occurred on the unit block of Galveston Street, SE on Jan. 27. The victim, Harris’ ex-boyfriend, sustained a stab wound to his left thigh.

Harris had been held at Saint Elizabeths, a psychiatric hospital for detained defendants. Judge McLean ordered a full mental competency evaluation on June 17 after a doctor was unable to form an opinion on Harris’ mental competency in a screening.

To stand trial, Harris must understand the charges against her and be able to assist in her defense.

At the hearing, parties discussed the results of the full evaluation which found Harris competent. Neither the prosecution nor Harris’s defense attorney, Alexander Schneider, objected to the report.

Schneider noted Harris’ significant improvement at Saint Elizabeths, saying her behavioral change was like “night and day” before requesting that if Harris was not released that she continued in the hospital’s custody.

According to Schneider, Harris’ criminal behavior is due to “untreated mental health issues,” as she was diagnosed with a mental health condition at age 12 but has not been taking medication.

The prosecution noted that this is not Harris’ first domestic violence incident and that she has had nine bench warrants issued. She also has five Civil Protection Orders (CPO) filed for her mother.

Judge McLean said that Harris chose not to take medications and instead “treat” herself with substances.

“If she knew about [her mental health issues] why didn’t she medicate at the time?” asked Judge McLean.

Judge McLean ordered Harris’ transfer back to the DC Department Of Corrections (DOC).

Parties are scheduled to reconvene Aug. 5 for a status hearing.

Co-Defendants Released After Pleading Guilty to Robbery in Conspiracy, Murder of Rap Artist

DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park granted the release of co-defendants Darryl Little and Marcel Gavin on July 22 while they await sentencing after a guilty plea.

Gavin, 39, Little, 32, John Wilkins, 36, Earl Robinson, 34, and Kharee Jackson, 33, are charged in connection with their alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of Albert Smith Jr., 21, and the robbery and assault of three additional victims on the 1300 block of Congress Street, SE on June 14, 2020.

According to a release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Smith Jr. was considered an up and coming rapper from the South who was visiting DC with friends and engaged in high stakes gambling the night before his murder with a group from the Congress Park area. Tens of thousands of dollars were exchanged in the overnight session. Prosecutors, say the Congress Park defendants went after Smith and his friends the following morning to steal their money precipitating the homicide.

Wilkins, Robinson, and Jackson are charged with conspiracy, first-degree premeditated murder while armed, three counts of first-degree felony murder while armed, assault with intent to kill while armed, assault with significant bodily injury while armed, nine counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, conspiracy and three counts of robbery while armed. Wilkins is also charged with unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction.

Gavin and Little formerly faced the same charges as Robinson and Jackson.

At the hearing, Gavin and Little accepted plea deals from the prosecution. Gavin pleaded guilty to two counts of robbery and Little pleaded guilty to one count of robbery. In exchange, prosecutors dismissed the remaining charges against them.

Judge Park released Little and Gavin under home confinement and GPS monitoring while they await sentencing. In the lead up to their trial, Little has served 35 months and Gavin has served 52 months.

As part of the plea deals, parties agreed to a sentence of 60 months in prison, all but 36 suspended for Little, and between 36-and-60 months of straight prison time for Gavin. The agreements are both subject to Judge Park’s approval at sentencing.

Judge Park said the time Little and Gavin have already served, compared to the maximum sentence within the plea deal, justified their release.

Little’s attorney, Wole Falodun, estimated Little earned 22 educational and professional certifications and received a job offer while incarcerated at the DC Jail. The parties agreed that if the proper documentation was submitted Little could work while he awaits sentencing.

Judge Park said his decision to release Gavin was a “significantly closer call” because he has a criminal history and did not earn any certifications. Judge Park acknowledged Gavin could not earn any certifications while in protective custody.

According to Gavin’s attorney, Antoini Jones, Gavin sustained two stabbing attempts while in jail and was subsequently moved into protective custody.

Earl Robinson, represented by Kevin Irving, is the sole defendant expected to go to trial on Aug. 17. In reference to recent plea deal discussions with the prosecutors, Irving said it looked like “we weren’t gonna get there.” Irving noted that he would be out of town and not able to return to court until the trial.

The prosecution also introduced a motion to admit evidence of the defendants’ reported gambling and photo evidence of large sums of money the defendants possessed was considered. The prosecutors said they had “a lot of evidence of large amounts of cash.”

According to prosecutors, the evidence would prove that the defendants lost a large amount of money before the shooting and it “got to a point where they are down and want to get it back.”

Judge Park expressed no concerns with the jury hearing witness testimony about gambling, but questioned the extent that photo evidence would support the prosecution’s argument. The photos might risk unfair prejudice against the defendants, noted the judge.

Prosecutors said they might also want to use the photos to prove relationships among defendants. Judge Park said he would need the prosecution to provide a list of photos and the exact reason the prosecution wanted to admit them before he rules. “The devil there is going to be the details,” said Judge Park.

Jackson’s attorney, Sara Kopecki, also requested that the prosecution relay which defendant they planned to use the evidence against.

Parties also discussed a potential witness’ testimony who the prosecution said was the victims’ Uber driver. The same night, while the victims were not with him, the Uber driver was robbed. According to prosecutors, they would not suggest the defendants were involved in the robbery, but wanted him to testify his complete recollection of the night.

Judge Park said, “I think you could lead him around this and instruct him beforehand,” to not testify to the unrelated robbery. Wilkins’ attorney, Bernadette Armand, agreed with Judge Park, “as long as we can work this out in advance.”

The prosecutors noted that some of the witnesses they planned to call at trial had died in the past few years. They requested their investigator be allowed to testify to the witnesses’ deaths so the jury would not diminish the investigation.

Kopecki expressed concern that the jury might speculate the deaths were related to the defendants, “setting up the defendants for improper inference.” As a result, she requested that the witnesses not be mentioned.

Judge Park ruled the investigator could mention the witnesses had died. Armand requested a list of the deceased witnesses the investigator would reference, which Judge Park granted but set no hard deadline for the prosecution to relay the information.

Jackson and Wilkins are scheduled to return on Aug. 3 to consider a plea deal before DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt, since Judge Park is unavailable on that date.

Parties for Robinson are slated to return Aug. 17 for trial. Little and Gavin are scheduled to return on Sept. 29 for sentencing.

Prosecutors Dismiss Threat, Tampering Charges in Stabbing Murder Case

Prosecutors dismissed two among four charges against a fatal stabbing defendant at a hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz on July 20.

Vanessa Bonaparte, 34, was originally charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed, threat to kidnap or injure a person, destruction of property more than $1,000 and tampering with physical evidence for her alleged involvement in the fatal stabbing of 31-year-old Dwayne Boyd on June 22, 2024, on the 3500 block of East Capitol Street, SE. Boyd sustained two stab wounds to his chest.

At the hearing, prosecutors dismissed Bonaparte’s threat and tampering charges but quarreled over her identification as a suspect.

Bonaparte had a prior relationship with Boyd, according to a Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) detective present at the hearing.

Bonaparte waived her right to be present, as her mother had died the day before. According to Bonaparte’s attorneys, Kevann Gardner and Roderick Thompson, Bonaparte returned to the DC Jail after they informed her of what they expected to discuss.

Gardner said the death was “unexpected,” but the trial will proceed as scheduled.

The prosecution filed a motion on May 8 to preclude Bonaparte from claiming self-defense and introducing evidence of Boyd’s violent history, citing a lack of relevant evidence. However, the prosecutor learned in the hearing that a witness present at the scene allegedly heard Bonaparte make statements to Boyd like, “You better not touch me.”

Judge Kravitz said that parties must prove sufficiently that Bonaparte acted in self-defense to admit evidence of Boyd’s violent character. If not suppressed, the prosecution asserted Boyd’s character should be “very delicately managed.”

According to parties, two of Boyd’s former partners reportedly filed Civil Protection Orders (CPO) and a Temporary Protection Orders (TPO) against him, however the prosecution noted the CPOs were later dismissed.

Judge Kravitz asked the defense what the former partners might say in their testimony or proposed scheduling a hearing to discuss the issue. Ultimately, he delayed ruling on the issue but asked the defense to let him know before mentioning self-defense at trial.

Thompson also filed a motion on June 23 to suppress a witness’ identification of Bonaparte during an MPD interview. According to the motion, the identification was “unnecessarily suggestive,” as officers only showed the witness one photo.

An MPD detective testified regarding the motion. In an audio recording played in court, a woman claimed the person who stabbed Boyd was named “Vanessa” and wearing a multicolored dress. Although the woman did not know Vanessa’s last name, an MPD officer then showed a photograph of Bonaparte, who the woman identified as “Vanessa,” according to the detective.

The detective testified that Bonaparte and the woman met for the first time the day Boyd died and had three subsequent interactions that day. However, the detective alleged that the woman knew of Bonaparte prior to Boyd’s death, as the woman claimed Boyd told her that he cheated on her with Bonaparte.

The detective said Bonaparte and the woman were reportedly taking methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), a hallucinogen also known as Molly, in Boyd’s apartment “earlier in the day,” but she did not know the exact time or whether anyone else was present.

According to the detective, Bonaparte went to the MPD station to discuss Boyd’s death on June 23, 2024, and was arrested that day.

Judge Kravitz denied the defense’s motion to suppress the identification evidence, ruling that although it is “suggestive” for a detective to only show one photo, it is still “nonetheless reliable” because the woman had an “excellent opportunity” to observe Bonaparte.

Thompson also alerted Judge Kravitz to a “quite troublesome” issue, ind that he recently learned that Boyd had a wife when he died. According to Thompson, the defense learned this earlier the day of the hearing because she had been present in the courtroom.

Prosecutors alleged that Bonaparte’s attorneys “should have known” this, as it was included in the evidence. Thomspon pointed out that the information about Boyd’s wife was “buried” under other material.

Judge Kravitz ordered prosecutors to give Thompson and Gardner all of Boyd’s wife’s contact information.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on July 21.

Defendant Accused of Shooting at Girlfriend Rejects Plea Deal, Trial Set for November

A non-fatal shooting defendant’s case will proceed to trial after he rejected the prosecution’s plea offer before DC Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur on July 21.

Kendall Lowe, 35, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon, unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction of greater than one year, carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business, and threatening to kidnap or injure a person. These charges stem from allegations that Lowe fired a round of shots at the residence of his girlfriend of two years on May 26 on the 900 block of 48th Place, NE.

While no one was injured in the shooting, according to charging documents, the victim said she “was in fear for her safety and her children’s safety.”

At the hearing, Lowe rejected a plea offer which would have required him to plead guilty to one count of possession of a firearm. In exchange, prosecutors would dismiss the remaining charges and not seek indictment on additional or greater charges.

Joseph McCoy, Lowe’s attorney, said he had thought the case would be resolved with a plea deal, but since that didn’t happen, he asked to set a trial schedule. Lowe’s trial is slated to begin on Nov. 10.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene for a felony status conference on Aug. 27.

Defense Says Shooting Case,‘Ripe for Dismissal,’ But Judge Unconvinced

Despite defense objections, DC Superior Court Judge Robert Salerno granted the prosecution a full nine-month window to indict a domestic shooting defendant on July 20.

Malek Beidleman, 33, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for his alleged involvement in a domestic violence shooting incident that occurred on Jan. 14, at the 5000 block of Jay Street NE. The defendant’s brother sustained a gunshot wound to his left foot.

At the hearing, Beidleman rejected the prosecution’s plea offer, but parties did not specify the terms. Defense attorney Craig Ricard argued the case was “ripe for dismissal” under Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 48, which allows the court to dismiss a case based on an unnecessary delay in a defendant’s indictment or trial.

Ricard opposed an extended indictment deadline. He argued police had all the information they needed from the start of the case, and that the prosecution would struggle to secure cooperation since all the eyewitnesses are Beidleman’s family members.

The prosecution countered that a nine-month indictment window is routine practice and that no unreasonable delay had occurred.

Judge Salerno acknowledged that some judges impose shorter deadlines but declined to do so in this case.

At Ricard’s request, Judge Salerno also modified Beidleman’s release conditions, changing his reporting requirements from in person to “as directed by pretrial services.” Beidleman’s in-person reporting will continue until the Pretrial Services Agency (PSA) authorizes telephone reporting.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Oct. 15

Defense Attorney Argues, ‘No One Knows Who Did This,’ in Traffic Shooting Trial

Parties presented opening statements for a non-fatal shooting defendant before DC Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur on July 20.

Marcus Reavenell, 48, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction greater than one year, unlawful discharge of a firearm, reckless driving, and destruction of property less than $1,000. These charges stem from Reavenell’s alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting following a traffic incident at the intersection of 58th and Foote Streets, NE on May 14, 2025. No injuries were reported.

The prosecution told the jury to picture their daily morning commutes, describing it as a time to “clear your head” and relax before the workday.

“What no one expects on their way to work is getting shot at,” the prosecutor said.

The prosecutor walked through the escalation of the incident, claiming that Reavenell started closely following the victim’s white work van after a traffic dispute. They played footage from the camera on the rear door of the victim’s vehicle that showed the proximity between the cars. After several minutes of footage, the car behind the victim’s appeared to fire a gunshot before driving off.

The prosecution concluded by asserting that Reavenell intended to scare the victim. They noted that evidence, such as social media posts, will reportedly link Reavenell to the car that harbored the shooter.

Reavenell’s attorney, Margaret Dawson, contended that ,“No one knows who did this.” She countered that the prosecution didn’t have sufficient proof to identify Reavenell as the suspect in the car.

“You’re going to see that the puzzle pieces don’t connect,” Dawson said. “This doesn’t work to this. That doesn’t work to that.” She told the jury that when the prosecution’s evidence does not connect, “that’s doubt.”

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officer who first arrived at the scene of the incident was called to testify by the prosecution. The officer testified that he received a call from dispatch about a shooting, prompting him to drive to the scene.

Upon his arrival, the officer spoke to a man who claimed he had been shot at while driving. The officer described the man as “real jittery,” and someone who “couldn’t focus properly.” The officer testified that this is “common in cases people are shot at.”

The prosecution displayed several photos of the car that the man was driving. The officer testified that a bullet hole could be seen in several of the photos.

Some of the officer’s body-worn camera footage was also displayed, which the officer claimed was MPD searching for the bullet. While he knew that a bullet was found, the officer could not remember where.

On cross-examination, Dawson elicited testimony confirming that the officer was a first responder whose job was to secure the scene. She also confirmed the names of the detectives who arrived at the scene after the officer. The officer noted that he did not personally recover evidence.

The prosecution called Reavenell’s boss to the witness stand. She said that she is an executive of Associated Community Services, the nonprofit Reavenell works at, where residential support is provided to those with physical and mental disabilities. She testified that she is “sort of” familiar with Reavenell.

According to the CEO, Reavenell is a Direct Support Professional who works “in the field.” His job is to stay overnight at residents’ homes and care for them. She said that on May 14, 2025, the day he allegedly committed the shooting, Reavenell clocked out of work at 8:23 a. m.

Dawson cross-examined the CEO. The CEO noted that she can only testify to the time Reavenell clocked out, not when he actually left the residents’ house.

Before the jury had arrived, Judge Arthur considered a defense motion to suppress a witness’ identification of Reavenell. The prosecution brought a witness who reportedly identified Reavenell in surveillance video and worked with him at the nonprofit. She testified that she saw him once every three months and exchanged “hi’s and bye’s” each time.

Dawson’s cross-examination noted that the witness only met Reavenell when he was hired in 2023.

Judge Arthur denied the defense’s motion, calling the issue “a matter of weight,” and “ripe for cross-examination.”

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on July 21.

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