Homicide Defendant Refuses to Attend Hearing

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On April 8, DC Superior Court Judge Michael O’Keefe continued a homicide case after a defendant wouldn’t come to court.

Da’John Blunt, 23, is charged with first-degree murder while armed for his alleged involvement in the shooting of 34-year-old Kevin McDowell on the 2100 block of H Street, NE, on Aug. 19, 2023.

During the hearing, Judge O’Keefe alerted the parties he had received a note from the US Marshals stating Blunt refused to be transported from the DC Jail to the hearing.

Kevin Mosley, Blunt’s defense attorney, stated “I need some more time to discuss things” with Blunt and requested a continuance. 

Judge O’Keefe granted the request.

Parties are slated to return April 17.