The prosecution requested a six-day continuance in a homicide trial after they couldn’t locate one of their key witnesses on Feb. 18 in front of DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan.
Jerome Israel, 19, is charged with premeditated first-degree murder while armed, two counts of carrying a pistol without a license, two counts of unauthorized use of a vehicle, unlawful discharge of a firearm, and two counts of destruction of property, for his alleged involvement in the death of ChaQuan Barbett, 24, on Aug. 23, 2022. The incident occurred on the 2300 block of Minnesota Avenue, SE.
The prosecution requested to delay the jury trial as they claimed this witness was essential. The witness’ relationship to the case has not been disclosed.
Israel’s attorneys, Janai Reed and Lisbeth Saperstein, agreed to the delay stating that they did “not really have a leg to stand on to object.” Judge Ryan granted the prosecution’s request.
Parties are slated to reconvene on Feb. 24.
