Defendant Waives Right to DNA Testing in a Murder Case

Thank you for reading D.C. Witness. Help us continue our mission into 2024.

On June 16, the defendant in a 2021 murder case waived his right to have evidence independently tested for DNA.

Mussye Rezene, 30, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm for his alleged involvement in the 2021 death of Brayan Villataro.

Villataro, 17, was shot and killed on the 1300 block of Nicholson Street, NW.

Prosecuting attorneys claimed DNA results of shell casings found at the scene of the crime were inconclusive. They also stated they had many other pieces of physical evidence, none of which they were planning to test for DNA.

DC Superior Court Judge Robert Okun questioned Rezene to ensure he was making an informed and voluntary decision.

Parties are expected to return on Nov. 7.