First-Degree Murder Defendant Waives Preliminary Hearing

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On Sep. 7, a first-degree murder defendant waived his right to have a preliminary hearing and requested release.

Jaime Maceo, 22, is charged with first-degree murder while armed for his alleged involvement in the killing of 25-year-old Maxwell Emerson that occurred on July 5 on the 600 Block of Alumni Lane, NE.

According to Metro Police Department (MPD) documents, officers responded to a shooting report at the location, where a male shooting victim was found.

At the hearing, Maceo waived his right to have a preliminary hearing. DC Superior Court Judge Robert Okun explained some of the conditions, including giving up Maceo’s right to testify on his own behalf.

Additionally, Maceo’s attorney, Anthony Matthews, requested his client’s release. He explained that he did not feel Maceo posed a risk to the community and that he has ample family support.

The prosecution then weighed in, explaining that they did not feel Maceo should be released due to his previous failures to comply with release conditions.

Judge Okun denied the defense’s request for release on the basis that Maceo allegedly committed murder while he was on release and probation for an undisclosed case. He also described the crime as “one of the most serious crimes in the DC area”, and that he is weighing in favor of keeping Maceo in detention.

The next hearing is scheduled for Jan. 12.

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