Judge Orders Competency Analysis for Shooting Defendant

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On Oct. 4, DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt ordered an initial forensic screening to determine if a shooting defendant is competent to stand trial.

Lawrence Murphy, 50, is charged with aggravated assault while knowingly armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, among other charges, for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting that occurred on March 31, 2020 on the 1300 block of Queen Street, NE. The incident left an individual suffering from non-life-threatening injuries.

Murphy’s defense attorney, Alvin Thomas Jr., requested the screening based on new information. Thomas discovered a report indicating Murphy has neurological issues when he was reviewing Murphy’s records.

According to Thomas, Murphy was shot in the head as a minor and the bullet remains there.

Judge Brandt stated that she has no choice but to order an initial competency screening because the defense is questioning Murphy’s ability to communicate with his counsel.

A mental observation hearing is scheduled for Oct. 13.