Double Homicide Defendant Arraigned on Nine Charges

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On Oct. 12, Amarii Fontanelle was arraigned before DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan in a nine count murder indictment.

Fontanelle, 20, is charged with first-degree murder premeditated, first-degree murder premeditated while armed, four counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence while armed, assault with intent to kill while armed, and aggravated assault knowingly while armed.

These charges are for his suspected involvement in the murders of 19-year-old Reginald Lamont Cooper, Jr. and 19-year-old Davonte Berkley on Oct. 17, 2022 on the 1300 block of Congress Street, SE. He is also accused of shooting a third victim, who survived.  

Fontanelle’s defense lawyer Kevin Mosley, alerted the court he is pleading not guilty to all charges, and asserted his constitutional rights, including the right to a speedy trial. 

Parties are expected back on Nov. 14 for a status hearing.