Homicide Defendant’s Motion for Dismissal Denied

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On Sept. 15, DC Superior Court Judge Michael O’Keefe denied a motion that charges against Terrell Poe be dismissed over a jurisdiction question.

Poe, 36, is charged with first-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction for allegedly firing 11 shots, killing 33-year-old Christopher Washington. The incident occurred on the 400 block of Southern Avenue, SE, on Sept. 23, 2020.

Poe’s defense attorney, Marnitta King, filed a motion requesting a change of jurisdiction. She argued that Maryland courts, not DC courts, should be hearing the case. According to King, the incident happened in Maryland.  

Judge Michael O’Keefe denied the motion and agreed with prosecution that the case falls under the DC Superior Court’s jurisdiction. The jury trial is set to begin Jan. 8, 2024.