Judge grants delay in trial against Rashad Allen

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The murder trial against Rashad Allen, 33, has been delayed.

The trial was previously set for February 13 and is now set for September 18.

Simmons was shot on March 15, 2015 on the 2300 block of Hartford St., SE. When police arrived on the scene they found both Simmons and another man suffering from gunshot wounds. Simmons was pronounced dead a day later.

Police arrested and charged Allen in April. Allen is currently in jail as he awaits trial facing second-degree-murder while armed charges.

Allen’s lawyers argued to have the trial delayed after new tests on gun shell casings found on the scene resulted in new conclusions. Allen’s lawyers also argued for the continuance in order to provide time for a blood swab to be tested that was previously deemed irrelevant.

Judge Lynn Leibovitz granted the continuance and the new trial date was set today.

Allen is expected in court on February 13 for a status hearing.