Attorneys Seek Release of Co-Defendants Charged With Murder, Citing Jail Conditions

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Attorneys for two co-defendants in a murder case have motioned for their clients’ release from custody, citing reports on the conditions of confinement at DC Jail.

Tony Morgan, 28, and Martinez Raynor, 21, are charged with murder for their alleged involvement in the shooting of 19-year-old Malik McCloud on Oct. 20, 2018, on the 3500 block of Wheeler Road, SE. The case is scheduled to go to trial in 2022.

Morgan is being represented by Kevin Mosley and Raynor is being represented by Ronald Resetarits.

On Nov. 9, both Mosley and Resetarits filed bond review motions, citing reports on the conditions of confinement at DC Jail in the aftermath of an unannounced inspection of the facility conducted by the US Marshals Service. Concerns raised about DC Jail conditions include poor sanitation and mistreatment of detainees.

During the Nov. 10 status hearing, the prosecution requested time to respond to these motions in writing. The prosecution’s response is expected by Nov. 12.

The prosecution has filed a motion to retest DNA on five items of evidence. This retesting would involve consumption of the biological material. Mosley and Resetarits objected to this, and will have until Nov. 17 to file their opposition in writing. The prosecution will have until Nov. 24 to respond.

DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz scheduled parties to reconvene on Jan. 7.

Morgan is charged with first-degree murder while armed while Raynor is charged with felony murder while armed. The two are also charged with conspiracy and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence. Morgan is also charged with assault with intent to kill while armed and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction. Raynor is also charged with carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.

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