Homicide Defendant, Also Accused in Jail Stabbing, Denied Release

By Natalie Note - November 8, 2024
Daily Stories | Homicides | Suspects | Victims |

A homicide co-defendant’s request for a review of his release condition was denied by DC Superior Court Judge Robert Okun on Nov. 8. 

Keith Baham, 25, and Tyler Stringfield, 26, are charged with first-degree murder while armed, conspiracy, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, two counts of carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business, two counts of possession of a large capacity ammunition feeding device, two counts of possession of an unregistered firearm and two counts of unlawful possession of ammunition. These charges stem from their alleged involvement in the death of 23-year-old Rafiq Hawkins in the 1200 block of Brentwood Road, NE on March 23, 2019. 

Baham and Stringfield are also co-defendants in this matter with Raymond Avent, 24, who is facing the same charges and was not present at this hearing. 

Brian Shefferman, Baham’s defense attorney, alerted the court that Baham wanted to review his release conditions. Baham is currently being held at the DC Jail. 

Shefferman argued Baham was sentenced to five years for an armed carjacking case and has successfully served that sentence, making him eligible for home confinement while awaiting trial for this homicide case. 

The prosecution said they were opposed to Baham’s release citing his alleged involvement in a stabbing case at DC Jail. 

Judge Okun denied the motion for release but informed Shefferman that he could file something in writing and the issue could be addressed more in depth. 

All parties are slated to reconvene on Dec. 4.