Judge Denies Release of a First-Degree Murder Co-defendant

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On Aug.18, D.C. Superior Court Judge Anthony Epstein denied the defense’s request to release a homicide co-defendant. 

Darryl Little, 29, is charged with conspiracy, multiple counts of first-degree murder, possession of a firearm during crime of violence, and robbery while armed for his alleged involvement in the death of 21-year-old Albert Smith on June 14, 2020, on the 1300 block of Congress Street, SE. 

According to court documents, the homicide case includes four other co-defendants. 

Marcel Gavin, 36, John Wilkins, 33, Kharee Jackson, 24, and Earl Robinson, 31, all pleaded not guilty to all charges in a July 10 hearing. 

The court issued a bench warrant for Little on June 14, and he was arrested on Aug.16. During the time, Little was absent from court hearings. 

Little’s attorney, Wole Falodun, requested for release. Falodun stated no evidence showed Little conducted the robbery and shooting. 

The prosecutor mentioned that Little has made multiple attempts to travel outside the jurisdiction and plans to flee. He presented evidence of Little’s using 15 burner cell phones, and argued that he was a fugitive for two months avoiding US Marshals.

Judge Epstein agreed Little poses a high risk of endangering the community.

Little remains detained at DC Jail . 

The next hearing is scheduled for Sept.8.