Judge Grants Defendant’s Request For New Counsel in 2020 Homicide case

By Izabella Apodaca [former] - December 1, 2023
Daily Stories | Homicides | Suspects | Victims |

On Dec. 1, DC Superior Court Judge Anthony Epstein granted the defendant’s request for new counsel in a homicide case. 

Daundrey Scott, 29, is charged with first-degree murder, assault with intent to kill, and two counts of arson for his alleged involvement in the murder of 62-year-old Darryl Finney that occurred on May 13, 2020, on the 900 block of H Street, NE. 

Judge Epstein stated that there has been an “immediate breakdown between the defendant and counselor” and he therefore will be appointing a new lawyer. The explanation was discussed under seal and closed to the public. 

Epstein stated that he is “Concerned Scott will be in the same situation a few months from now, but we will see if a new lawyer can get what you want.”

Scott’s previous defense attorney, Michael Bruckheim, filed a motion to withdraw a guilty plea on behalf of the defendant. The motion will be discussed at a later date, once new counsel is appointed. 

Epstein addressed Scott stating, “I will not be continuously appointing a new attorney.”

An ascertainment of counsel hearing is set for Dec. 15.