A murder defendant’s curfew was lifted in spite of the prosecution’s objections in a hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park on Jan. 9.
Tariq White, 28, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed, destruction of property less than $1,000, and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in a shooting that killed Devon Sharp, 16. The incident took place on May 18, 2024, on the 1200 block of V Street, NW.
According to White’s attorney, Kevin O’Sullivan, his client has been in perfect compliance with his release conditions, which justifies ending the curfew. White took part in the proceedings through a video link.
The prosecution said there was no reason to modify the curfew which is working well. Furthermore, three members of the victim’s family were at the hearing to express their displeasure with any change in White’s release status
However, Judge Park said the prosecution failed to show why the curfew shouldn’t be lifted.
In another matter, the prosecution said it appears this may become a self-defense case based on a claim of PTSD–White is a veteran. If so, they want to call their own expert in response.
White’s trial date is set for April 19, 2027, and the prosecution’s case is expected to last about a week.
