DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt encouraged a fatal-shooting defendant to make an effort in a drug treatment program on Aug. 1.
William Davenport, 30, and his mother Violet Davenport, 53, are charged with first-degree murder while armed and possessing a firearm during a crime of violence for their alleged involvement in the shooting death of 27-year-old Leonard Turner. The incident occurred near a shelter on the 400 block of 2nd Street, NW, on May 14, 2021.
During the hearing, Judge Brandt said she was glad that Mr. Davenport was complying with some of release conditions but not avoiding illegal illegal drugs.
“I recognized it’s a struggle,” Judge Brandt said about his drug problem. “It won’t get fixed or cured overnight.”
Defense attorney Jason Tulley informed the court that Mr. Davenport had begun outpatient treatment due to a series of positive drug tests.
Judge Brandt told Mr. Davenport, “All I am asking is that you try.”
Parties are slated to reconvene Sept. 19.
