Attorney in 2020 Murder Case Files Release Request Based on Speedy Trial Rights

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A murder defendant’s lawyer requested her client’s release because she said his speedy trial rights are being violated.

Jacobi Williams, 35, is charged with first-degree murder while armed in the shooting of 38-year-old Phillip Roache. Roache was found unconscious with 10 gunshot wounds on the 7000 block of Blair Road, NW, on Sept. 17, 2020.

Defense attorney Marnitta King made an oral release request during the Jan. 24 hearing. She said Williams has a right to a speedy trial yet has been held since he picked up the case in October 2020. King also requested the case’s dismissal on the same reasoning.

The prosecutor was opposed to both requests. He noted that the defendant has a felony charge in Maryland.

Judge Robert Okun denied both requests, citing the same factors as the prosecutor. He scheduled another hearing for March 3.

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