A motion to strike the end of the prosecution’s closing arguments was denied during a trial for a shooting defendant on Nov. 7 by DC Superior Court Judge Marisa Demeo.
Andrew Parsons, 29, is charged with assault with intent to kill while armed, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, two counts of possession of firearm during a crime of violence, and carrying a dangerous weapon for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting with one victim on the 800 block of Southern Avenue, SE on Aug 9, 2023.
During the hearing, Judge Demeo addressed the defense’s motion to strike the end of the prosecution’s closing argument as “prejudicial,” in that they told the jury to hold Parsons accountable for the gun violence in the city.
Judge Demeo stated that the prosecution was addressing Parsons specifically, and was not providing a general argument about gun violence in the city. She denied the motion.
Parties will reconvene when the jury reaches a verdict.
