Independent Counsel to Advise Murder Defendant at Sentencing

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DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz ruled that an independent counsel be appointed to advise a murder defendant in what was supposed to be a sentencing hearing on May 2.

On March 28, Erin Sheffey, 28, pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter while armed for his involvement in the fatal shooting of Kwiyon Maddox, 32, on Aug. 15, 2021, on the 2100 block of 16th Street, SE.

However, Sheffey’s attorney, Peter Cooper, filed a motion to withdraw from the case due to a complete breakdown in communication between the attorney and defendant.

Judge Kravitz ruled that an independent attorney will be appointed to advise Sheffey on whether or not to withdraw his guilty plea. The prosecution did not object, however they did state that this would be Sheffey’s third attorney in this case.

Parties are slated to reconvene June 6.