DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan modified release conditions for a teen homicide defendant to allow him to attend school at a hearing before on July 15.
Keyonte Johnson, 17, is charged with first-degree premeditated while armed for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 20-year-old Roy Bennett Jr. The incident occurred on Dec. 5, 2025, at the 300 block of Morse Street, NE. Bennett sustained seven gunshot wounds.
As a result of the serious nature of the offense, prosecutors are charging Johnson as an adult under Title 16.
Due to his medical conditions, Johnson is currently on release with GPS supervision and is subject to 24-hour home confinement. A representative from the Pretrial Services Agency (PSA) said that Johnson has been in compliance with the conditions of his release.
Johnson’s attorney, Jesse Winograd, asked the court to ease his conditions of confinement so that he could attend school.
An attorney from the School Justice Project (SJP) was present and alerted the court that she has been working on school enrollment and attendance for Johnson.
Prosecutors requested that Johnson enroll in a virtual program, saying that the violent nature of the crime gives the court “reason to be concerned” about his interactions with other students.
Judge Ryan ultimately ruled in favor of the defense, arguing that school is “extremely important,” especially considering Johnson’s age.
“I’m giving you an opportunity to succeed,” said Judge Ryan.
Parties are scheduled to reconvene for Johnson’s arraignment on Oct. 1.
