DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park denied release for a paralyzed murder defendant suffering from alleged medical negligence by the Department of Corrections (DOC) on Oct. 3.
Desmond Barr, 23, is charged with second-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction, for his alleged involvement in the death of Ambria Farmer, 20. The incident occurred on July 13, 2024 on the 3600 block of F Street, SE.
Barr’s defense attorneys, Hannah Claudio and Dominique Winters, argued for Barr’s release. They proposed relocating him to home confinement at his older sister’s residence, which is near a healthcare facility they argued could better address his medical needs. They also requested GPS monitoring.
The defense argued that the DOC was not providing adequate healthcare. They cited a lack of sanitary physical therapy, Barr’s worsening open wounds, urinary tract infections, blood clots, and what they described as a serious laceration sustained from a defective shower rod. They also claimed Barr’s medication had been changed, leading to seizures.
Two representatives from the rehabilitation sector of the proposed healthcare facility sat with the defense and argued in favor of Barr’s release. The representatives testified that the facility near Barr’s sister’s home has the equipment and trained staff to handle his medical issues. The women emphasized theif willingness to support him.
A witness for the Department of Corrections (DOC), testified that Barr was receiving consistent care. He claimed the DOC had provided four wheelchairs, two of which Barr declined, and confirmed that the jail was conforming to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). He also reported that a special wheelchair assigned to Barr was inoperable, as was a handicap shower in the jail, though the shower has since been repaired.
The DOC witness also cited the jail’s healthcare director, who reported that Barr has received 103 wound treatments, more than 80 doctor appointments, mental health services, and a urology consultation. He said one of Barr’s wounds was nearly healed. He did not provide details on physical therapy.
Judge Park denied the motion for release, noting the case is an “extremely violent murder”. He also cited Barr’s pending charges in another case, which include assault and strangulation. The judge stated that detention was warranted and that the issues raised centered on the conditions of imprisonment rather than release. He, consequently, suggested Barr be transferred to a different facility.
Park said the expressed claims showcase a dispute of facts between the defense and DOC. He requested documentation and testimony from a DOC medical expert to clarify the extent of Barr’s treatment. He also ordered the DOC representative to have the jail provide information about why previous orders by DC Superior Court Judge Michael O’Keefe were not followed.
The parties are slated to reconvene on Oct. 24.
