Defense Asks Judge to Reconsider Holding Murder Defendant

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During a motions hearing Sept. 13, a defense attorney asked a DC Superior Court judge to reconsider holding a murder defendant in jail. 

Alonzo Lewis is charged with first-degree murder for allegedly shooting 40-year-old Jaquon Helm and 35-year-old Venius Badgett on the Unit block of Galveston Street, SW in May of 2018. Lewis, 33, is also charged with possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, assault with intent to kill while armed against a minor and unlawful possession of a firearm.

Judge Danya Dayson decided to continue to hold Lewis in jail based on the nature of the murders, as well as, his past offenses. Lewis was convicted of two drug felonies in 2012 and assault with significant bodily injury in 2008. 

Defense attorney, John Fowler, requested that the prosecution get all the information on the details of one of the victim’s criminal history.

According to Fowler, one of the victim’s had been involved in past criminal cases more than 20 years back. Fowler cannot get the documents of the cases because the criminal acts occurred more than two decades ago. 

Judge Dayson ordered the prosecution to provide this information to Fowler before the next status hearing.

A status hearing is scheduled on Nov. 15. 

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