Case against Wilbert Whitaker to head to trial

By D.C. Witness Staff - February 16, 2017
Court | Homicides | Suspects |

Suspect Wilbert Whitaker rejected a plea deal from the government Thursday for the alleged murder of Leo Hackett.

In April of 2016, police responded to the sounds of gunshots in the 800 block of 21st St., NE and found Hackett with multiple gunshot wounds. Hackett was taken to a hospital where he was pronounced dead.  Police arrested Whitaker and charged him with second-degree murder while armed.

Whitaker has been out of jail and enrolled in high intensity supervision.

On Thursday, Whitaker denied the government’s plea deal offer that would have avoided a trial.

Whitaker is scheduled to appear in court for a hearing on May 12. A trial has been scheduled for June 5.