Judge Approves Murder Defendant’s Release to Halfway House

By D.C. Witness Staff - June 24, 2019
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Suspects | Victims |

During a felony status conference June 24, DC Superior Court Judge Craig Iscoe agreed to release a murder defendant to a halfway house when one becomes available. 

Barbara Sanders is charged with second-degree murder while armed with a knife for allegedly stabbing Thurman Knight on the 500 block of Montana Avenue, NE in March. Sanders and Knight were involved in a romantic relationship and lived in an apartment under his name.

Defense counsel said releasing Sanders, 53, to a halfway house would be appropriate because she would be monitored, have a curfew and has no criminal history. Sanders currently has no where to live if released from DC Jail. 

The prosecution told Judge Iscoe that Sanders should remain detained because she could pose a threat to the community. The prosecution also provided the defense with body-worn camera footage that was requested during a June 11 hearing.

Under Judge Iscoe’s terms, Sanders would be drug tested weekly, prohibited from possessing any weapons and not be allowed to contact Knight’s family. She would only be allowed to leave the halfway house for pre-approved medical appointments. 

According to court documents, the two were not in an abusive relationship. Witnesses told the police that the two had been arguing for days before the murder.

Another felony status conference is scheduled on Aug. 30.