DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman issued a bench warrant in a hearing on March 3 after a homicide defendant failed to appear and failed to comply with release conditions.
Phillip Palmer, 62, is charged with conspiracy, first-degree murder while armed, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and robbery while armed for his alleged involvement in the killing of 61 year-old Steven Stewart on the 600 block of 21st Street, NE on May 2.
Randall Mack, 43, is facing the same charges for his alleged involvement in the same incident.
According to Palmer’s attorney, Rachel Cicurel, Palmer’s wife told her that Palmer was “extremely ill” to the point he “couldn’t walk and won’t eat.” Palmer’s wife also said that Palmer has an appointment set with the doctor.
A representative from the Pretrial Services Agency (PSA) informed the court that Palmer tested positive for cocaine and fentanyl during a court ordered spot test on Feb. 20. Palmer also failed to report for scheduled drug tests and violated his stay away order on Feb. 28.
Judge Edelman scheduled this hearing to see whether Palmer could get back into compliance with his release conditions. After hearing the report from PSA, Judge Edelman issued the bench warrant stating “he’s just wholly not compliant.”
Parties are scheduled to reconvene on April 3.
