DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan released a hospitalized homicide defendant due to deteriorating health conditions on Oct. 27.
Byron Sneed, 40, is charged with first-degree murder while armed for his alleged involvement in the death of Raymond Washington, 18, that occurred on the 700 block of Marietta Place, NW, on June 30, 2024.
Sneed’s attorney, Destiny Fullwood-Singh, waived his presence, informing the judge that he is currently in the hospital and requested his release.
The defense argued that Sneed’s health had deteriorated severely since his arrest, citing both injuries and neglect while in custody. Fullwood-Singh argued that Sneed was injured when he fell on a set of steps before the arrest, injuring his back.
The injury deteriorated into a serious, antibiotic-resistant bacterial infection. His attorney said that the infection caused chronic pain, repeated hospitalizations, and several major medical interventions, including multiple blood transfusions, one surgery to address the infection, and an open-heart surgery.
Fullwood-Singh claimed the Department of Corrections (DoC) refused to follow medical instructions, including changing Sneed’s bandages as prescribed twice daily.
Fullwood-Singh raised concerns she had been unable to speak confidentially with Sneed throughout the week. She further stated that neither she nor Sneed’s family where he’s hospitalized.
The prosecution opposed release, arguing that Sneed’s charges were serious and his actions premeditated, that he has a prior criminal record, and that detention was necessary for the safety of the community. He suggested that a more forceful institutional intervention would be more appropriate than home confinement.
The judge disagreed, noting that Sneed’s medical circumstances had drastically changed and that his condition was not adequately addressed in custody. Sneed had done everything possible to seek medical help, but continued to suffer, Judge Ryan stated.
He emphasized that Sneed’s condition now posed no threat to the community, describing him as “not the same person” who had allegedly committed the crime.
The judge ruled in favor of releasing him under home confinement when it’s medically safe to do so. Sneed will be permitted to leave his residence only for medical treatment, meetings with his attorney, or pre-trial appointments.
Parties are slated to reconvene on Nov. 17.
