Judge Issues Bench Warrant for Homicide Defendant After Failure to Appear

By McKenna Bryant - January 21, 2024
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | stabbing |

On Jan. 18, DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt issued a no bond bench warrant for a homicide defendant after failing to appear.

Joseph Ballard, 59, is charged with second-degree murder while armed for his alleged involvement in the fatal stabbing of 33-year-old Monte Daniels on July 28 on the 1600 block of Benning Road, NE. 

On Sept. 18, Judge Brandt released Ballard, with objection from the prosecution, to participate in a court-ordered drug treatment. 

The court and Ballard’s attorney, Pierce Suen, have not had contact with him since December.

Due to his failure to appear, the prosecution’s request for a bench warrant was granted. 

”Do your best to try and find him,” said Judge Brandt to Rachel Cicurel, who was standing in for Suen. 

Parties will return once the US Marshals have detained Ballard.