‘By Virtue of Mere Type of Charges, He’s Dangerous,’ Says Judge, Denying Defendant’s Release

By Adriana Marroquin - February 3, 2024
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Shooting | Suspects | Victims |

On Feb. 2, DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt denied a homicide defendant’s motion for release. 

Niko Hall, 32, is charged with first-degree murder while armed, assault with intent to kill while armed, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and carrying a pistol without a license, for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 25-year-old Anthony Lee on Sept. 26, 2020, on the 2900 block of Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE. 

On Feb. 1, Wole Falodun, Hall’s defense attorney, filed a written motion requesting to modify Hall’s pretrial release conditions. In his motion, Falodun stated that Hall “has deep connections to the community, having been born and raised in Washington, D.C.,” and added that “the likelihood of him fleeing is minimal if released.” 

During the hearing, Falodun added that Hall has limited involvement with the criminal justice system, and he poses no flight risk. He added that Hall was employed at the time of the incident, and can return to his job if released. 

“There is no evidence of flight risk or dangerousness,” said Falodun, adding that Hall would be in a better position to assist with being ready for the December trial date if he’s in the community. 

Prosecutors quickly opposed the request, stating that, although he does lack criminal history, a prior judge found substantial probability that Hall had been one of the alleged perpetrators in Lee’s death. The prosecution added that there have been no changes in conditions that show he should be released. 

Judge Brandt denied the motion for release, stating that, although Hall has always been “quiet and mild-mannered in court,” she has seen all video evidence of the incident, and the weight of the evidence the prosecution has against him is significantly strong. 

“By virtue of mere type of charges, he’s dangerous,” said Judge Brandt. 

She added that her decision is not due to his temperament, adding that, “He’s a gentleman every time he comes to court,” but rather the nature and circumstances of the offense. 

Parties are slated to reconvene July 19.