DNA Results from Gun Are Inconclusive in Homicide Trial

By Grace Raines [former] - November 3, 2022
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Shooting | Suspects | Victims |

During a Nov. 2 proceeding, two expert witnesses testified on DNA and vehicular evidence in a three co-defendant homicide trial. 

Derek Turner, 31, and his co-defendant Ronnika Jennings, 44, are charged with first-degree murder while armed and conspiracy in connection with the shooting of 28-year-old Andrew McPhatter on March 5, 2017, on the 3500 block of Wheeler Road, SE. The third co-defendant Duan Hill, 33, is charged with conspiracy and obstruction of justice. 

Additionally, Turner is charged with first-degree murder for allegedly shooting 23-year-old Devin Hall on Jan. 7, 2017, on the 3500 block of 6th Street, SE.

A DNA analyst’s testimonial included the results of DNA swabs taken from Turner’s cheek, a firearm magazine, and a Glock. 

Results from the magazine were inconclusive because there were two contributors to the DNA, with one being a male. The Glock also had inconclusive results due to a similar mixture of DNA. The unclear results deemed the evidence unreliable, so no comparisons were made to Turner. 

Defense attorney, Michael Madden, questioned the DNA analyst about his confidence in the Glock DNA profile. The expert clarified potentially more than two sets of DNA were on the firearm. 

The second expert testified about McPhatter’s green Buick, which the Department of Forensic Science (DFS) processed. 

The vehicle had eight bullet holes on the driver’s side, also damaging the vehicle’s interior. Prosecutors displayed physical bullet fragments and a firearm magazine found inside the vehicle. 

McPhatter’s driver’s license was found in the vehicle’s backseat. 

Madden questioned the expert on misconduct allegations against the Department of Forensic Science (DFS). Allegations included covering up evidence and corruption in the Spring of 2017. 

Prosecutors objected to this cross-examination as the expert was not accused of any allegations. 

DC Superior Cout Judge Marisa Demeo scheduled to continue this with the expert’s testimony on Nov. 3.