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By
Yvianna Estrella
, Natalie Valentin - January 24, 2025
Daily Stories
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Homicides
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DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park denied a homicide defendant’s motion to reconsider release during a hearing on Jan 23.
Robert Carpenter, 36, is charged with voluntary manslaughter while armed for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 42-year-old Tremaine Nicholson. The incident occurred on the 3400 block of 25th Street, SE on May 7, 2024.
Carpenters defense attorney, Christen Philips, submitted a motion for reconsideration of release on Jan. 16. The request outlined the defense contention that “there is no legal basis to hold him,” because the judge failed to find probable cause for second-degree murder while armed, which was the original charger. However, he found probable cause for voluntary manslaughter while armed.
Moreover, the memorandum mentions that the prosecution’s request to hold Carpenter in detention is “no longer justified” because of the Bail Reform Act, which states the judge can release a defendant if they find that sufficient conditions can be imposed to ensure the safety of the community.
Judge Park denied the motion, on the grounds it was unreasonable.
The next hearing is set for April 4.