During a hearing on April 15, DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan denied a motion to modify pre-trial release conditions in a murder case involving an infant.
Wayne Blake, 24, who is facing two counts of cruelty to children and one count of first-degree murder for allegedly killing one-year-old Journee Moore on Sept. 28, 2024 at a residence in the 3700 block of Connecticut Avenue, NW.
Blake has been on pre-trial release for approximately 10 months, during which he has been subject to 24-hour home confinement and GPS monitoring. The hearing addressed alleged violations of his release conditions and requests to adjust the terms.
Judge Ryan highlighted the two unexplained violations. On April 9, Blake left his home without permission for approximately 11 minutes, with his location recorded near the Cleveland Park Metro Station. The second was on April 11, when he was again recorded at the same location, away from his residence for slightly more than 11 minutes.
Blake’s attorney, Kevin Mosley argued that the violations were due to personal needs. Further, Mosley stressed that given the defendant’s overall compliance it would be helpful for Blake to have the freedom to handle tasks like walking his new puppy and getting a haircut, which are difficult to manage under the current strict confinement rules.
Mosley proposed either removing GPS monitoring or adjusting Blake’s curfew to allow for activities like daytime dog walks, grooming, and job searching.
Mosley emphasized that Blake has been in compliance for 10 months before the two incidents.
The prosecution opposed, citing public safety concerns relating to “great impulse control and violence issues,” and a risk to children. The prosecution’s primary concern was that Blake should not be around children, noting the defendant’s residence is located at the corner of the Cleveland Park Metro Station frequented by many children. He was observed at the same corner during the alleged violations.
Judge Ryan emphasized the need to balance Blake’s rights with community safety. While noting Blake’s prior compliance, Judge Ryan denied the defense’s motion to modify Blake’s release conditions. The judge also warned Blake that further non-compliance issues could lead to greater restrictions or re-incarceration.
Parties are scheduled to reconvene on Sept. 24, 2027 for a trial-readiness hearing.
