Case Acquitted: Homicide Defendant’s Ex-Wife Testifies He Never Asked for an Alibi

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Editor’s note: On Aug. 1, a jury acquitted Jarvis Jackson of all charges connected to the homicide of Deont’e Minor.

A murder defendant’s ex-wife testified about discussions they had after a fatal shooting, before DC Superior Court Judge Anthony Epstein on July 29.

Jarvis Jackson, 42, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm due to a prior conviction for allegedly fatally shooting Deont’e Minor, 23, on March 20, 2021, on the 1200 block of Southern Avenue, SE.

According to court documents, Minor was in an Uber ride when he was shot in the backseat as the Uber was waiting to make a turn. The Uber driver previously testified he took the victim to a nearby hospital immediately after the shooting. Minor later succumbed to his injuries.

During the hearing, Jackson’s ex-wife testified she did not see Jackson on the day of the incident as the two separated a few years prior. However, she testified that during their arguments, Jackson insisted they had been together on the day of the incident.

The witness also testified that she and Jackson argued after she found out that Jackson was a suspect in a murder, and had allegedly been driving around with women regardless of their relationship status.

However, Jackson’s ex-wife claimed he never directly asked her for an alibi or to lie for him.

The witness, however, said she believed Jackson committed the crime.

Meanwhile, a Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) detective testified about surveillance videos of the area surrounding the incident.

In the footage, a white Chevy Cruze was seen with a screenshot image of the possible suspect in the vehicle. The videos also included a figure, later identified as Jackson, approaching the Uber that Minor was in while waiting for a turn and approximately six gunshots going off after the individual approached the vehicle. The same figure was seen running away from the scene after the shooting.

A medical examiner, who performed the autopsy on Minor, testified the cause of death was multiple gunshot wounds and the manner of death was homicide.

Parties will reconvene on July 30.