Homicide Defendant Waives Right to Test DNA Evidence

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On March 29, a homicide defendant waived his rights to independently test DNA evidence before DC Superior Court Judge Anthony Epstein.

Karon Brown, 32, is charged with second-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a convict for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 32-year-old Cynthia Barringer on Oct. 31, 2021, at the 2000 block of Green Street, SE.

During the hearing, the prosecution noted that they had tested many items in evidence, including a BIC lighter, a firearm, and red stains alleged to be blood found at the scene. Brown’s DNA was excluded from the lighter and the red stains, however, his DNA was a strong likelihood Brown’s DNA was found on the firearm.

Marnitta King, Brown’s defense attorney, alerted the court he planned to waive his right to independently test the evidence.

Judge Epstein informed Brown that he would not be able to change his mind after waiving his rights; however he chose to waive them anyway.

Parties are slated to return Feb. 14.

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