Judge Finds Probable Cause in Homicide Case

By Grace Raines [former] - October 21, 2022
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Shooting | Suspects | Victims |

During an Oct 20 preliminary hearing, DC Superior Court Judge Robert Okun found probable cause for second-degree murder. Family members from both sides were in attendance. 

River Barfield, 19, is charged with second-degree murder while armed in connection to the shooting of 20-year-old Jacky Brooks in the 4100 block of South Capitol Terrace, SW, on March 17. Brooks was shot in the back of the head in his vehicle. Barfield was arrested on Sept. 20 and is currently released under the High-Intensity Supervision Program (HISP). 

The lead detective said the bullet projectile was consistent with the shooter sitting in the backseat due to a single shell casing found underneath the front passenger seat. 

Based on surveillance footage, the prosecution argued for Barfield was present in the vehicle’s backseat. But, defense attorney, Sylvia Smith, said the footage was two hours before the incident and is not reliable. 

She argued the car drove into an iron fence after the victim was shot, so the shell casing moved from its original position. 

Prosecution dismissed the front-seat passenger being the shooter as he was right-handed and could not have shot Brooks without him noticing. However, footage shows the front passenger leaving the vehicle through the backseat.

Judge Okun found probable cause that plausible Barfield was involved in homicide. 

Defense counsel motioned to change Barfield’s release status from 24-hour home confinement to a curfew. Barfield’s strong family support and perfect compliance were discussed. 

Prosecution brought forward a victim’s family member, who did not want Barfield’s release to change as it would be a “slap in the face.” 

Judge Okun denied the defense’s request but would reconsider it when Barfield has a longer compliance record. 

The next hearing is scheduled for Dec. 19.