Defense Attorney Requests New Trial Date

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A defense attorney’s schedule prompted her to request a new trial date for a murder trial.

MacArthur Venable is charged with first-degree murder while armed for allegedly shooting 34-year-old James Eric Ferrell on the Unit block of Massachusetts Avenue, NE on Oct. 31, 2018.

Venable’s new trial date was changed from Sept. 14, 2020, to Sept. 28, 2020.

According to court documents, Venable got into a verbal altercation with Ferrell, which turned physical. After someone attempted to separate the men, a second altercation began. When the same person intervened again, Venable, 34, allegedly began shooting at Ferrell.

Venable’s presence was waived for the hearing. The reason for Venable’s absence was not discussed in open court.

Venable’s next status hearing is scheduled on Oct. 28.

Venable is currently being held without bail at DC jail.

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