Evidence from Murder Suspect’s Phone Suggests Loving Friendship Between Defendants

By McKenna Bryant , Anthoine Godin - April 4, 2024
Daily Stories | Homicides | Juveniles | Shooting | Suspects | Victims |

On April 3, DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt heard testimony from a digital information analyst suggesting deep ties between two defendants in connection to a 2020 homicide.

Koran Jackson, 23, Tyiion Kyree Freeman, 24, and Stephen Nelson, 33, are three of five individuals charged with multiple counts of conspiracy, assault with the intent to kill while armed, first-degree murder while armed, carrying a pistol without a license, and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence in connection to the fatal shooting of 13-year-old Malachi Lukes on March 1, 2020 on the 600 block of S Street, NW. The shooting also left a second juvenile victim located in the vicinity suffering from an apparent gunshot wound to the right leg.  

The case also involves alleged co-conspirators Reginald Steele, 24, and Aaron Brown, 27.

Throughout the trial, the prosecution has attempted to connect Jackson, Freeman, and Nelson to additional shootings that occurred on Feb. 22, Feb. 24, and a second shooting on March 1, 2020. The prosecution alleges a firearm conspiracy by the defendants to obtain and use specific weapons used in Lukes’ homicide.

The prosecution questioned a digital specialist who analyzed Steele’s phone including his contacts, call records, wireless connections and messages.

Among the findings is that Steele sent a message to a contact named “Boogie”, who the prosecution alleges is co-defendant Nelson, that says, “17 gotta go fool,” on the evening of the murder. An image of a hand holding a painted ghost gun was attached to the message.

Earlier in the trial, the prosecution heard testimony from a firearms expert who concluded that a white 17-caliber ghost gun was very likely used in Lukes’ homicide. 

According to the prosecution, the text conversations between Steele and “Boogie” demonstrate a deep level of friendship. For example, a message from Boogie to Steele saying, “Love you for life fool,” with Steele loving the message in reaction. 

Meanwhile, Judge Brandt reminded the jury that photos of text conversations are evidence showing a state of mind rather than statements of fact.

Due to time constraints, the witness will finish his testimony at a later date.

Parties are slated to return April 4.