Judge Finds Probable Cause in Adams Morgan Homicide

By Audrey Staudacher [former] - April 4, 2024
Daily Stories | Homicides | Shooting | Suspects | Victims |

On April 4, DC Superior Court Judge Robert Okun found probable cause in a fatal shooting that occurred in the busy, multi-cultural Adams Morgan neighborhood.

Jakeim Miller, 25, is charged with first-degree murder while armed for his alleged involvement in the death of 30-year-old Avon Perkins. The shooting occurred on Dec. 17, 2022, on the 2400 block of 18th Street, NW. Another individual sustained non-life-threatening injuries..

The lead detective on the case presented video surveillance footage showing an individual, identified as Miller, leaving a nightclub around 1 a.m. and was approached by Perkins. 

The two had a brief conversation before Perkins appeared to strike Miller. In response, Miller appeared to dig into the front of his pants as the two moved out of sight of the camera. Audio footage captured the sound of several gunshots.

According to the detective, Miller allegedly fled the area. Perkins was pronounced dead at the scene and was found to be unarmed by Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officers. The other victim was transported to the hospital and received treatment for injuries.

The detective also testified that no DNA evidence, ballistics, or fingerprints tied Miller to the case. 

Miller’s defense attorney, Steven Kiersh, pointed out that Perkins had been kicked out of the nightclub thirty minutes prior and was “walking and stalking” the street, waiting for Miller to leave.

He also pointed out that Perkins was the one to initiate the violence, and, according to court documents, the two were having “a normal conversation” before Perkins escalated the conflict.

“There is ample evidence Miller was acting in self-defense,” said Kiersh.

While the prosecution agreed that Perkins was the first aggressor, they pointed out there was significant time between Perkins’ strike and the sound of gunshots on the video. The prosecution argued the time interval shows Miller’s actions amounted to premeditation.

The prosecution also pointed out that Perkins was found with gunshot wounds to the side and back, which indicated that he was turned away when he was shot.

Judge Okun ruled there was enough evidence to find probable cause. 

While he acknowledged that Perkins was the first aggressor, he stated the number of gunshot wounds to Perkins’ side and back meant it was unlikely Miller was acting in self-defense. 

He also ruled for continued detention of Miller to “ensure the safety and protection of the community,” citing the surviving victim from the incident. 

Parties are slated to reconvene May 31.