Judge Orders Full Mental Competency Exam for Homicide Defendant

Thank you for reading D.C. Witness. Help us continue our mission into 2024.

On Aug. 29, DC Superior Court Judge Robert Okun ordered a full mental competency exam for a murder defendant requesting to represent himself in trial.

Marcus Barringer, 32, is charged with first-degree murder premeditated while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and obstruction of justice, among other charges, for his alleged involvement in the death of 32-year-old Rashad Davis on the 2300 block of Nicholson Street, SE, on May 6, 2022.

On July 27, Judge Okun ordered a competency evaluation to ensure Barringer is capable of representing himself.

During the Aug. 29 hearing, Judge Okun alerted parties that doctors from the Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) stated they need to further evaluate Barringer to establish he’s mentally competent to represent himself in trial.

Although Barringer opposed the continued tests, his stand-by defense attorneys and prosecutors agreed that the further evaluations were necessary and appropriate.

Barringer accused prosecutors of planting an undercover FBI agent in his cell to get information regarding his case.

Throughout the proceeding, Judge Okun had to ask Barringer to explain himself, and clarify his train of thought.

Barringer also requested to be released as he awaits trial, which was quickly denied by Judge Okun.

Barringer then argued he had several jobs, a family to take care of, and insisted he is not a flight risk or a danger to the community.

Obviously frustrated, Barringer threatened Judge Okun with a lawsuit to remove him from the bench claiming he is inept and allows prosecutors to lie and perjure in his case.

In response, Judge Okun requested US Marshals remove Barringer from the courtroom.

Parties are expected back in court Oct. 19 to discuss the findings of the mental competency evaluations.

Follow this case