Judge Denies Murder Defendant’s Release Request

By D.C. Witness Staff - August 21, 2020
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Suspects | Victims |

A DC Superior Court judge denied a murder defendant’s request for pretrial release on Aug. 20.

Karlos Kinney is charged with the first-degree murder of 25-year-old Resha Blount. According to court documents, a witness said that Kinney shot the victim four times – twice in the back, and once in the leg and hand – on April 30 on the 900 block of New Jersey Ave., NW. The witness said Kinney, 20, fired the weapon following a drug dispute. 

Defense attorney Antoini Jones said that Kinney’s prior, dismissed, charges are insufficient reasons to continue holding his client. Jones also said logistical and technological issues resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic have hindered his ability to communicate with the defendant.

However, the prosecution said Kinney should remain held due to his prior gun, drug, and fleeing charges. 

“The defendant killed someone over $10 out of a sense of pride,” the prosecutor said.

A motion for release was also denied on July 7.

“No conditions of release would ensure the community’s safety,” Judge Todd Edelman said. 

Kinney’s next court hearing is scheduled for Dec. 8.