Defendant Pleads Not Guilty in Connection to Murder of Peace Corps Worker

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A homicide defendant pleaded not guilty to all charges during a hearing on Dec. 16, before DC Superior Court Judge Robert Okun.

Dearay Wilson, 29, is charged with conspiracy, first-degree premeditated murder while armed, and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 53-year-old Jeremy Black. The incident occurred on June 29, 2021, on the 1400 block of R Street, NW.

Black, a former Peace Corps worker, was eulogized by the National Peace Corps Association as an individual whose life work was, “[p]romoting understanding between people” in challenging parts of the world.

According to prosecutors, Wilson was one of multiple individuals who exited a white Chevy SUV at the location and unleashed a “barrage of bullets,” which fatally injured Black. Wilson has been the only individual arrested and charged in connection to the incident.

During the hearing, Wilson’s attorney, Thomas Healy, told Judge Okun he intended to plead not guilty to all charges and asserted his constitutional rights, including the right to a speedy trial.

Parties are slated to reconvene April 11, 2025.