Judge Puts Homicide Defendant on Pretrial Release, Detains Shooting Defendant

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On April 12, DC Superior Court Judge Eric Glover limited the number of hours a vehicular homicide defendant could drive during pretrial release, and ordered a non-fatal shooting defendant be detained.

Olivia Ayong, 49, is charged with negligent homicide for her alleged involvement in the death of 72-year-old Ralph Williams on the 900 block of K Street, NE, on Nov. 25, 2022.

According to documents from the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), Williams was standing behind his vehicle at the location when Ayong, who was driving a Ford Explorer, ran into the back of William’s vehicle, causing him to be pinned between the two cars. He was transported to a hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.

During the hearing, the prosecution argued for probable cause stating that surveillance footage showed no visible evidence of her attempting to avoid the crash. They added that, although they weren’t requesting she be detained, they were requesting Ayong be prohibited to drive as she awaits further proceedings, arguing that the accident occurred while she was working.

Errin Scialpi, Ayong’s defense attorney, argued for her ability to drive, stating that she works as a healthcare provider and has to drive for her work.

After hearing arguments from both parties, the judge found probable cause and placed Ayong on pretrial release. Reasoning that Ayong had no prior criminal history, Judge Glover allowed for Ayong to drive during working hours.

Parties are slated to return May 3 before DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt.

Kevin Snead, 41, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting that occurred on April 3 on the 1500 block of Independence Avenue, SE.

According to court documents, Snead, who was working as a security guard at a Safeway, saw several teenagers stealing items from the store and fleeing the scene.

Hours later, Snead allegedly saw them at the 7-Eleven in the area and pursued them, allegedly opening fire at the teenagers, shooting times.

Following the presentation of evidence by the prosecution, Judge Glover ordered Snead be detained as he awaits further proceedings.

Parties are slated to return April 24 for a preliminary hearing.

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