Judge Holds Homicide Defendant During Presentments

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On Feb. 14, DC Superior Court Judge Renee Raymond decided to hold a homicide defendant during a presentment hearing.

Robert Straughter, 26, is charged with second-degree murder while armed for his alleged involvement in the murder of 24-year-old Tyejuan Harkum on the 2600 block of Naylor Road, SE, on Dec. 6, 2023.

According to court documents, Harkum was followed by a vehicle, allegedly driven by Straughter and occupied by two other individuals, from a take-out place. As Harkum exited the restaurant, the passengers in the vehicle shot him, before getting back in the getaway car, which was allegedly a stolen vehicle. 

Judge Raymond found there was enough evidence to determine probable cause that Straughter was the driver, and decided to hold him until his preliminary hearing.

Straughter will remain detained as he awaits further proceedings. 
A preliminary hearing is set for March 14, in front of DC Superior Court Judge Robert Okun.