A homicide defendant pleaded not guilty and was allowed to remain on release by DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan on May 13.
Darrion Blake, 29, is charged with conspiracy, first-degree murder while armed, robbery while armed, and two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 44-year-old Denard Hartwell on Aug. 18, 2018, on the 4400 block of Livingston Road, SE.
Blake was previously arrested in connection to the incident in October 2024, but his case was dismissed in July 2025 due to the prosecution’s failure to meet the indictment deadline.
They have since indicted him and 33-year-old Delonte Samuels. Samuels is currently in the custody of the Bureau of Prisons (BoP) as he serves a sentence for an unrelated murder. Prosecutors are awaiting his transport from BoP to the DC Jail to arraign him.
During the hearing, Erin Scialpi, Blake’s attorney, alerted the court of his intent to plead not guilty to all charges. She requested he remain on release, stating he has been a productive member of society, is gainfully employed, and has no history of escapes or bench warrants.
The prosecution objected to the request, stating the allegations are severe, and he should be detained.
Judge Ryan agreed the allegations are severe, but he stated Blake has demonstrated through his compliance that he is able to abide by the conditions set forth by the court. He ordered Blake to check in with the Pretrial Services Agency (PSA) and report to them as directed.
He stated Blake won’t be required to be on a GPS monitor, as there are no facts that support an installation. However, he told the parties he’s willing to revisit the requirement if PSA states they need it.
Parties are slated to reconvene July 15.
