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Helena Betancourt [former]
- October 8, 2021
Court
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Daily Stories
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Homicides
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Shooting
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Suspects
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Victims
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A DC Superior Court judge denied a murder defendant’s request to be released from jail into home confinement.
James Harper, 39, is charged with second-degree murder while armed in the shooting of 39-year-old Bret Desmarteau on May 27, 2021, on the 100 block of Sheridan Street, NE.
During the Oct. 7 hearing, defense attorney Marnitta King said her client has experienced violence at DC Jail. She also voiced medical concerns due to him not receiving a vegan diet, which he says he needs for health reasons.
Judge Marisa Demeo denied the release request but ordered medical examinations to assess if Harper needs a vegan diet.
Parties are scheduled to reconvene on Dec. 17.
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