Homicide Defendant  Feels ‘Unsafe’ in Drug Treatment Facility 

By D.C. Witness Staff - August 4, 2023
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Shooting | Suspects | Victims |

In an Aug. 4 hearing,  William Davenport’s defense counsel, Lauren Morehouse, expressed concerns for his safety during pretrial inpatient treatment. 

Davenport, 30, is charged with first degree murder while armed and possessing a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in the May 14, 2021 homicide of 27-year-old Leonard Turner. The incident occurred near a shelter on the 400 block of Second Street, NW. 

According to court documents, Davenport said he was selling drugs and the shooting may have been in retaliation for a robbery.

A pretrial services report indicated Davenport had been noncompliant with his release conditions, which include inpatient treatment for substance abuse. Defense counsel Morehouse explained to the court that Davenport removed himself from the center for legitimate safety concerns. Morehouse added that after several conversations with the center’s staff, Davenport’s concerns should be rectified in the next week.

At that time, a bed would become available for Davenport’s use. 

DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt emphasized the importance of promptly returning Davenport to a treatment facility. Judge Brandt scheduled another hearing in three weeks to reassess Davenport’s pretrial treatment compliance. 

Parties will return to court on Aug. 25.