Felony Arraignment for One of Two Homicide Co-Defendants Delayed

By Marissa Stambaugh - September 13, 2024
Daily Stories | Homicides | Shooting |

DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan arraigned a homicide defendant on Sept. 13, and delayed another’s arraignment due to miscommunication. 

Amarii Fontanelle, 21, and Jahi Rapp, 21, are charged with two counts of first-degree premeditated murder while armed, four counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, assault with intent to kill while armed, and aggravated assault knowingly while armed, for their alleged involvement in the fatal shootings of 19-year-olds Reginald Cooper Jr. and Davonte Berkley on the 1300th Block of Congress St SE, on Oct. 17, 2022. 

Rapp is also charged with accessory after the fact to Fontanelle’s crimes in that he allegedly relieved, comforted and assisted Fontanelle knowing that he had committed the crime. According to the prosecution, Rapp also assisted Fontanelle with fleeing the scene which hindered and prevented the apprehension, trial and punishment of Fontanelle. 

During the hearing, Kevin Mosley, Fontanelle’s attorney, alerted the court of his intent to plead not guilty to all charges, and asserted his constitutional rights, including the right to a speedy trial.

Judge Raffinan ordered Fontanelle, who had been released in this matter on Aug. 23 and transferred to Prince George’s (PG) County detention, to report to the Pretrial Services Agency (PSA) to get his GPS monitor installed. According to Mosley, Fontanelle was released from PG County’s custody on Sept. 12. 

Due to a miscommunication, Rapp did not appear before the court. His attorney, Ferguson Evans, requested he be permitted to attend the hearing remotely, which was denied due to it being an arraignment hearing. 

The prosecution requested a bench warrant be issued, which was quickly denied by Judge Raffinan, who argued he had been in compliance with all release conditions. 

She granted Ferguson’s request for a continuance to allow Rapp to be present for the arraignment. 

Parties for the Rapp matter will reconvene Sept. 16, and Fontanelle will reappear on Oct. 9.