Judge Finds Probable Cause in Murder Case, Schedules Another Hearing

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A DC Superior Court judge scheduled a felony status conference for a murder defendant after ruling that the case against him has enough evidence to go to trial.

Vernon Parrish, 37, is charged with first-degree murder while armed in the shooting of Ronald Bailey on June 5, 2019. That afternoon, Metropolitan Police Department officers responded to the 5200 Block of E Street, SE, and, upon arrival, found 52-year-old Bailey inside of a residence with gunshot wounds. He was taken to a local hospital where he was eventually pronounced dead, according to a press release.

During the Nov. 23 hearing, a medical expert took the witness stand to analyze the autopsy report of Bailey. She testified that Bailey sustained two gunshot wounds, one to the right thigh and one to the abdominal area. The gunshot wound to the thigh fractured the femur and the shots in the abdomen caused damage to vital organs. Pictures of the autopsy were admitted as evidence.

Judge Milton Lee agreed with the prosecution that there was significant probable cause and gave parties time to determine how to proceed with the case.

Parrish is scheduled to return to court on Feb. 25 for a felony status conference.

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