Judge Finds Substantial Probability in Murder Case

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On April 21, DC Superior Court Judge Robert Okun found substantial probability that Raheem Gafari committed murder.

Gafari, 32, is charged with first-degree murder while armed for his alleged involvement in the shooting of 24-year-old Davon Sullivan on May 4, 2022, on the 2300 block of Green Street, SE.

Following a continuance of the preliminary hearing from October, Judge Okun alerted the parties that he had found substantial probability that Gafari committed the murder based on the evidence that was presented by prosecutors.

According to court documents, there is a video of the incident that depicts Sullivan and Gafari in an argument. Sullivan can be seen walking away from the altercation, and Gafari is seen shooting him multiple times. He continued to shoot Sullivan once he was on the ground.

Judge Okun stated that the video goes against the defense’s argument that Gafari acted in self-defense.

Due to the nature of the offense and the defendant’s criminal history, Judge Okun is requiring Gafari to remain in jail as he awaits trial.

The case is being transferred to DC Superior Court Judge Michael O’Keefe.

Parties are expected back in court for a status hearing on June 23.

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