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By
Amanda Parks
, Carly Silverman - February 20, 2025
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DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan granted a mistrial for a homicide trial after the jury was unable to reach a unanimous verdict on Feb. 19.
Terrance Stoney, 31, is charged with second-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of Donte Tiller, 43. The shooting occurred at the intersection of Naylor Road and Southern Avenue, SE, on March 17, 2023.
The judge received a note from a juror saying the deliberation room was an “unproductive and unethical” environment. Jurors claimed that one juror said, “he looks like a killer” and “if he were innocent, he would have testified” during deliberations.
Jurors also allegedly discussed the case outside of deliberations even when told not to, according to Judge Ryan.
After questioning each juror individually, Judge Ryan noted that he was concerned the jury would not proceed as fair and impartial, and it was clear to him that the jury was hung, leading to his declaration of a mistrial.
Parties are slated to reconvene Feb. 20.