Frustrated Over Crowded Calendar, Judge Pushes Back Murder Trial Until 2027

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Two murder co-defendants were arraigned before DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman on May 22. However, because of an overcrowded felony docket, the judge could not schedule their trial until 2027.

During the proceeding, Karim Ibrahim, 22, heard the 11 count indictment against him including premeditated murder while armed, assault with intent to kill, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, carrying a pistol without a license, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence and assault with significant bodily injury while armed.

On behalf of Ibrahim, his attorney, Kevin Mosley, pleaded not guilty and asserted his constitutional rights including a speedy trial and full disclosure of the prosecution’s evidence.

Meanwhile, Delonte Terrell, 29, was charged in a five count indictment with premeditated murder while armed, assault with intent to kill while armed and assault with significant bodily injury.

Michael Bruckheim, his attorney, likewise pleaded not guilty on all counts while asserting his constitutional rights and requested relevant evidence in the case.

The pair of defendants are charged with the fatal shooting of Javonni Coleman on Jan. 16, 2024 on the 2400 block of S Street, SE.

No plea offer has been extended by the prosecutor but he alerted the parties he would be interested if they would consider a deal. He also said there was no intention to test the physical evidence in the case which amounted to recovered shell casings.

However, the main focus of the hearing was the struggle to come up with an acceptable trial date because of previous trial commitments by the attorneys and the backed up felony docket in superior court.

Judge Edelman said the calendar was “absurdly overcrowded.” As the judge paged through the 2026 calendar it was clear nothing was available that would satisfy everyone’s schedule. Finally, there was agreement of a Jan. 19, 2027 start date.

“Wow!” said the judge.

There was agreement to schedule a hearing to consider possible DNA testing issues on Oct. 3.

In the interim, Bruckheim asked the judge for relaxed release conditions for Terrell who’s currently on GPS monitoring. Judge Edelman asked Bruckheim to put the request in writing. Ibrahim is also released under similar restrictions.

Since there are possible mental issues in the case, Judge Edelman asked Ibrahim to comply with a mental health screening.