Defense Intends to Compel Witness to Provide DNA for Testing

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At a status hearing on April 21, the defense expressed an intent to compel a witness to provide DNA for testing with the evidence as per the defendant’s request.

Chad Hawthorne is charged with first-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction for allegedly shooting 35-year-old Antonio Bassett on May 22, 2017, on the 3900 block of Pennsylvania Avenue, SE.

During the hearing, defense attorney Jonathan Zucker indicated that Hawthorne, 42, requested that one of the prosecution’s witness’s DNA be tested along with the evidence that had been sent to the lab.

Zucker also admitted that he was unaware of the case law regarding the request as he has never seen anything like this before. However, he said that he is prepared to follow all of the necessary procedures to obtain DNA swabs from the witness.

DC Superior Court Judge Marisa Demeo asked Zucker to discuss the issue further with the prosecution and to submit a proposal given that the witness is unwilling to provide DNA.

The next hearing is slated for Sept. 8 to allow time for DNA testing if the witness complies.

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