Defendant Asserts His Right to Independent DNA Testing

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On May 1, a homicide defendant asserted his right to test DNA evidence.

Joseph Melton, 54, is charged with first-degree murder for his alleged involvement in a stabbing that claimed 48-year-old Kevin Chamberlain’s life. The incident occurred on Jan. 14, 2020, on the 700 block of 24th Street, NW.

Melton is also charged with assault with intent to kill for his alleged involvement in a stabbing incident that injured one individual on Jan. 14, 2020, on the 800 block of Vermont Avenue, NW.

Melton’s defense attorney, Thomas Healy, alerted DC Superior Court Judge Michael O’Keefe that the defense planned on testing the handle of the knife that was allegedly used for the attacks, which was found on Melton’s person at the time of his arrest.

According to court documents, Chamberlain had reported an attempted stabbing in the early hours of Jan. 14, 2020. He was found with multiple stab wounds that same afternoon, and succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital.

According to court documents, Melton was found with suspected blood on his clothing and his hands, and with a bloody knife in his pocket, when he was apprehended.

The testing is expected to last four months.

Parties are expected back for a trial readiness hearing on Jan. 19, 2024.

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