Judge Orders Competency Exam for Homicide Defendant to Represent Himself

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DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan reissued an order during a May 29 hearing for a murder defendant to complete a competency test as a condition to represent himself.

Wonell Jones Jr., 37, is charged with first-degree murder while armed for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 33-year-old Audora Williams on July 19, 2022, on the 2900 block of Knox Place, SE. The victim had 52 gunshot wounds to her entire body.

According to court documents, Williams and Jones had a history of domestic violence disputes. Williams made multiple statements to police and was granted several protective orders against Jones, the most recent of which was requested less than a month prior to the incident.

The parties previously met on April 25 during which Judge Raffinan ordered Jones undergo two mental competency exams before granting his motion to represent himself–due to a past report that determined Jones was incompetent to stand trial. She also cited this was a requirement of all those wishing to represent themselves.

Jones failed to comply with the Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) efforts and he remained silent during screenings and interviews.

On May 29, Judge Raffinan stated she would rule on his motion once a mental competency exam conducted by the DBH.

Parties are set to return June 26.