Defense Plans to Limit Expert Testimony in Domestic Homicide

By D.C. Witness Staff - February 11, 2019
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Suspects |

During a hearing Feb. 11, a defense attorney said she plans to file a motion to limit the testimony of one of the prosecution’s expert witnesses.

Dianna Lalchan is charged with first-degree murder while armed and a related gun offense for her alleged role in the death of her husband, 36-year-old Christopher Lalchan, on the 1200 block of 4th Street, SW in 2013. According to court documents, the duo had been married for about four years.

Lalchan, 33, is currently released on personal recognizance. Apparently, on the night of the murder, Lalchan told police she was a victim of domestic abuse. However, according to court documents, there are no domestic abuse reports filed.

Defense attorney Maneka Sinha said the prosecution plans to call a forensic psychologist to testify about the effects of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and battered wife syndrome. Sinha said the psychologist is also expected to discuss whether or not Lalchan was abused.

Sinha didn’t fully explain her objection to the psychologist’s expected testimony. However, she did say the testimony would impact how the jury would perceive Lalchan’s intent at the time of the shooting. Sinha said she plans to file her motion by Feb. 15.

The prosecution is scheduled to file a response by Feb. 26.

Lalchan is scheduled for a status hearing on March 1, when counsel is expected to resolve the motion.

According to court documents, Lalchan told police that she and her husband were arguing. She said her husband placed a gun on the television stand in the living room. Fearing for her safety, Lalchan said she got the weapon and fired three shots. She told police her husband did not physically assault her or threaten her on the night of the murder.