Despite A Murder Defendant’s Accomplishments in Jail, Judge Denies His Request for Release

By Alesar Harfoush [former] - January 30, 2023
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Shooting | Suspects | Victims |

On Jan. 27, DC Superior Court Judge Maibeth Raffinan granted co-defendants’ request to waive their right regarding any DNA testing, but she also denied a defendant’s third request to be released under the High-Intensity Supervision Program (HISP).

Eighteen-year-old Nelfy Hernandez, 20-year-old DeAndre Levy, and 18-year-old Trey Prillerman are allegedly charged with first-degree murder regarding the shooting of a group of teenagers that resulted in the death of Taijhon Waytt, 17. The shooting took place on the 5500 block of 9th Street, NW on Aug.10, 2020. 

During a three co-defendant status hearing, Judge Raffinan granted defendants Levy and Prillerman their request to waive their rights to DNA testing. 

Hernandez’s attorney, Douglas Wood, asked for additional time on whether or not Hernandez would request any DNA testing due to the prosecution’s tests showing Hernandez’s DNA on one of the pieces of evidence recovered. 

There was also noticeable tension between regarding an issue with one of the prosecution’s witnesses. Judge Raffinan along with the attorneys showed concern about the amount of bias and favor the prosecution has since the witness is allegedly charged in another murder case.  

The prosecution said they are working on the matter and will provide the defense with any important information but, as for now, the witness will testify and there are no plea deals between the witness and prosecution.

“I am aware of my obligation,” said the prosecution. 

On behalf of Levy, attorney Thomas Healy narrated the reasoning behind the defendant’s motion for release under HISP, which the defendant has been denied more than once.

Healy said Levy has completed his GED and is attending college for his second semester.

After weighing the factors of the case,  Judge Raffinan acknowledged Levy’s accomplishments however, with the court’s finding of probable cause of Levy being one of the shooters, the danger he imposes on the community has not changed. 

A status hearing is scheduled for Feb. 24.