Homicide Defendant Waives Right to Independent DNA Testing

By Sadie Herman [former] - January 5, 2024
Daily Stories | Homicides | Shooting | Suspects | Victims |

On Jan. 5, a homicide defendant waived his right to independent DNA testing before DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan.

Johnwann Elliott, 30, is charged with first-degree murder while armed, two counts of possession of firearm during crime of violence, assault with intent to kill while armed, unlawful possession of a firearm, and carrying a pistol without a license outside home or business, along with other charges, for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 37-year-old Nikia Young on the 2200 block of Minnesota Avenue, SE, on March 15, 2022. 

The prosecution informed the court that physical items discovered in relation to this case included ballistics evidence, clothing, and bags filled with suspected drugs. 

They explained that the only testing that was completed were six cartridge casings. They further explained that none of the cartridge casings were suitable for DNA analysis, and therefore no results were found.

Elliotts defense attorney, Kevann Gardner, then informed the court that Elliott would be waiving his right to independently test any of this evidence. 

The parties are expected to reconvene on Sep. 20.