Judge Denies Defendant’s Request For Change of Counsel in Makiyah Wilson Homicide

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On Nov. 27, DC Superior Court Judge Robert Okun denied a homicide defendant’s request for a change of counsel.

Mark Price, 29, and Antonio Murchison, 30, are two of ten defendants charged with conspiracy, first-degree murder drive by or random shooting when the victim was especially vulnerable due to age or physical infirmity while armed, seven counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and seven counts of criminal street gang affiliation, among other charges, for their alleged involvement in a drive-by shooting that resulted in the murder of 10-year-old Makiyah Wilson on July 16, 2018 on the 300 block of 53rd Street, NE.

Price, Murchison, and other defendants are alleged to be part of the Wellington Park Crew, which prosecutors argue is a criminal gang. All other defendants have been convicted for their involvement, and sentenced to time in prison.

Murchison’s presence was waived for this hearing.

Price is also charged with first-degree murder while armed, four counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and two counts of assault with intent to kill, among other charged, for his alleged involvement in a separate shooting that occurred on July 30, 2018 on the 1500 block of 19th Street, SE, that resulted in the death of 47-year-old Andre Young. The incident left one additional individual suffering from non-life threatening injuries.

Through defense counsel, Megan Allburn, Price requested new counsel for the Wilson case, but not for the Young case. Reasoning behind the change of counsel request is being kept under seal. Allburn explained to the court that Price is aware that a change of counsel would most likely result in further delay of his trial, which he accepts. His trial for the Wilson murder was originally scheduled for June of this year, but was delayed twice until 2024.

The prosecution responded by stating that Price is already on his second attorney and if he is arguing a change of counsel based on the handling of certain DNA evidence, both cases have the same DNA evidence from Price’s vehicle. Considering this, she asked “Why do you want a change in counsel in one case and not the other?”

The prosecution continued by stating that they have concern because it is a 2018 case and the family of the victim has rights. She further explained that there is “no basis for Allburn to be replaced,” as she has been prepping for this case diligently and even attended the other Wellington Park trial.

Prosecutors also added that they do not want these cases severed, so if new counsel was granted, co-defendant Murchinson would also be forced to stay in jail longer as well.

Judge Okun stated that he will be denying the request for change of counsel as he has no concern over Allburn’s ability to provide effective counsel. He stated that he actually finds the opposite true and explained that, “I am concerned that if new counsel was appointed it would not be adequate.”

Okun also stated that “it would be prejudicial to victims, family, and the administration of justice to delay the trial or sever the cases.” He concluded by stating that he has “no concerns about her representing him effectively.”

Parties are set to return Jan. 11 for a status hearing.

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