Defendant Asks Approval to Attend Sister’s Funeral

By Ayoola Fadahunsi [former] , Jaclyn Sersland [former] - June 1, 2023
Daily Stories | Non-Fatal Shooting | Suspects |

Questions arose in a May 31 hearing about whether a shooting suspect could attend his sister’s funeral.

Antron Belk, 16, is being charged as an adult for allegedly committing assault with the intent to kill while armed in a non-fatal shooting that occurred on Feb. 25, on the 4400 block of Quarles Street, NE.  According to court documents, the victim was shot eight times.

The defendant was not present in court because he wasn’t on the official transport list for the hearing.  

Defense attorney Christen Philips Romero asked DC Superior Court Judge Anthony Epstein to order the Department of Youth and Rehabilitative Services (DYRS) to escort Belk so he could attend his sister’s funeral. 

The prosecution said allowing the defendant to attend a community event poses security concerns given the nature of the case. 

Judge Epstein denied the motion, but says he will await the department’s recommendation on the matter. 

“It is my job to craft the least restrictive means to protect the community, and leaving it up to the DYRS to decide does that,” said Judge Epstein. 

Attorney Romero then asked Judge Epstein to order the DYRS to provide an alternative, virtual way for Belk to view the funeral if attending in person is not possible. 

The prosecution had no objections, and Judge Epstein accepted the motion. 

A preliminary hearing in the case is set for June 7.