Attorney’s Concerns of Stereotyping Postpone Non-fatal Shooting Trial

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A shooting defendant’s trial was delayed after he requested to appear more presentable before DC Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur on July 18.

Jerry Tyree, 46, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, unlawful possession of liquid phencyclidine (PCP), attempted unlawful possession of liquid PCP and two counts of unlawful possession of a firearm. The charges stem from his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting on Nov. 29, 2023, on the 5900 block of Foote Street, NE.

His trial was set to begin on July 18 with jury selection.

However, his defense attorney, Sara Kopecki, requested to postpone the trial, since Tyree’s hair had not been cut. The DC Jail only does haircuts on Thursdays, and due to the hearing, Tyree was unable to get one, according to Kopecki.

When Judge Arthur claimed he thought Tyree looked presentable, Kopecki immediately disagreed, and Tyree shook his head. Kopecki mentioned potential jury stereotyping and requested a continuance.

Parties agreed on a new trial date of Aug. 26.

Tyree is scheduled for a status hearing on Aug. 6.