A homicide defendant accepted a plea deal extended by prosecutors on Nov. 12, before DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman
Keshawn Lavender, 24, was originally charged with first-degree murder while armed, assault with intent to kill while armed, attempted robbery while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and conspiracy while armed for his alleged involvement in a robbery and shooting that resulted in the death of Matthew Miller, 32, on the 200 block of M Street, SW on Sep. 6, 2023.
Lavender agreed to plead guilty to voluntary manslaughter while armed in exchange for the prosecution’s dismissing all other charges. Through the deal, parties agreed to a sentence of seven years in prison.
De’Andre Sams, 29, and Raymond Mathis, 38, have also been charged in connection to the shooting. Sams pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter while armed on Aug. 14 and was sentenced to 132 months imprisonment on Oct. 17. Mathis is scheduled to begin trial on Jan. 25, 2027.
The prosecution stated that surveillance footage of Lavender entering and exiting the apartment building, as well as traces that were likely his DNA at the site of the shooting, would have proven his guilt had the case gone to trial. They stated that 100 pounds of marijuana were in the apartment the men were attempting to rob.
Judge Edelman accepted Lavender’s guilty plea, but stated that he will determine whether the agreed sentence is appropriate.
Sentencing has been set for Jan. 23, 2026.
