DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan denied a homicide defendant’s motion for release at a hearing on July 24.
Juan Adams, 41, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in a shooting that killed 38-year-old Michael Hansley. The shooting occurred on Dec. 2, 2023, the 1700 block of Benning Road, NE. Hansley sustained two gunshot wounds.
Adams’ attorney, Kevin O’Sullivan, argued an oral motion for Adams’ release, citing no DNA evidence placed Adams inside a car that a witness originally reported Adamas occupied. O’Sullivan classified this as a “material change in circumstances.”
According to court documents, the witness stated that they reportedly picked up Adams after the shooting in a silver two-door Mercedes.
O’Sullivan claimed that DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan’s original decision to hold Adams “wasn’t a close call.”
He alleged that this case is “certainly not as strong,” as video footage did not show the face of the shooter and there was no weapon recovered. Although one witness identified Adams as reportedly being in the area, there is no GPS or cell site evidence to corroborate the witness’ statements.
According to O’Sullivan, the “nature and circumstances” of the crime are in favor of detention, but not Adams’ character. O’Sullivan highlighted Adams’ “minimal” prior record, as well as the fact that the shooting occurred in December 2023, and Adams was not detained until October 2024. During that time period, O’Sullivan reported that Adams did not engage in criminal activity.
Judge Ryan said he was not sure that the absence of DNA is significant, given the other evidence from the witness. Judge Ryan denied O’Sullivan’s motion for release.
Parties indicated that there have been preliminary conversations about a plea offer but did not discuss any terms.
Parties are scheduled to reconvene on Oct. 2.
