Homicide Defendant Pleads Not Guilty at Arraignment 

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On March 8, a homicide defendant was arraigned in the courtroom of DC Superior Court Judge Michael O’Keefe

Keith Williams, 23, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, for his alleged involvement in the death of 17-year-old Brendan Ofori on the 300 block of M Street, SW. The incident occurred on May 28, 2023. 

According to court documents, Ofori was shot and killed in a Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) train car, and his body was recovered at the Navy Yard Metro Station. Williams’ defense attorney, Sylvia Smith, alerted the court he was pleading not guilty to all charges, and asserted Williams’ constitutional rights, which include a speedy trial with legal representation.

Smith requested that the prosecution produce discovery evidence, which the judge ordered them to complete within 30 days. 

A status hearing is set for April 5.

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