Homicide Defendant Waives Right to Independently Test DNA Evidence

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On Aug. 10, a homicide defendant alerted DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt that he was giving up his right to independently test DNA evidence recovered from a crime scene.

Niko Hall, 31, is charged with first-degree murder while armed, assault with intent to kill while armed, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and carrying a pistol without a license, for his alleged involvement in the murder of 25-year-old Anthony Lee. The incident occurred on Sept. 25, 2020, on the 2900 block of Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE.

Hall’s co-defendants, 21-year-old Kyrie Wells and 20-year-old Darquise Montgomery, accepted plea agreements that lessened their murder charges to second-degree murder. Montgomery is awaiting sentencing, and Wells was sentenced to 14 years in prison.

According to prosecutors, there were various items that had been tested for DNA evidence, including swabs from a weapon.

Regardless, Hall waived his right to independent DNA testing.

Parties are expected back Sept. 15.

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