Judge Denies Murder Defendant’s Release, Trial Delayed

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DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan denied a homicide defendant’s request for release, despite granting the prosecution’s request to change the trial date during a hearing on June 5.

Dionzai Parker, 21, is charged with conspiracy, first-degree premeditated murder while armed, assault with intent to kill while armed, three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and two counts of carrying a rifle or shotgun, for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 37-year-old Brice Djembissi, on Feb. 25, 2023 on the 2200 block of Savannah Street, SE.

According to the prosecution, Parker is allegedly part of a neighborhood crew known as Get Back Gang, or GBG, and allegedly conspired with his four ex-co-defendants, who have since pleaded guilty, to commit multiple shootings between April of 2022 and February 2023.

During the hearing, parties discussed the prosecution’s request to vacate the trial date, which was previously scheduled for Aug. 8. However, the prosecution stated that they’d suggest delaying it for “the judicial economy.”

Karen Minor, Parker’s attorney, objected to the request, stating the prosecution had previously stated they’d be ready to try the five defendants in August, and the prosecution should still be able to be prepared for one defendant.

Judge Ryan granted the request from the prosecution after private discussions between the parties.

Given the change in the trial timing, Minor requested Judge Ryan release Parker to the community under home confinement at his mother’s home, stating he has the support needed in the community, and GPS monitoring can ensure his whereabouts and the community’s safety.

Judge Ryan denied the request due to his abscondicing and the nature of the offense, stating that Parker was indicted in November of 2024 and participated in a hearing for it that same month, but did not turn himself in and had to be taken into custody with an arrest warrant in December.

Parties are slated to reconvene Aug. 8.