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By
Keirah Chen
- February 11, 2025
Daily Stories
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Shooting
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DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt reissued an initial mental evaluation for a defendant convicted of first-degree murder on Feb. 7.
Ky’lee Palmer, 25, was convicted of second-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, malicious destruction of property, and tampering with physical evidence, for his involvement in a drive-by shooting that led to the death of 60-year-old Barron Goodwin on Feb. 12, 2020, inside a residence on the 800 block of 51st Street, SE.
Palmer’s co-defendant Aaron Adgerson was acquitted before DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt on Sept. 11.
Palmer’s attorney, David Akulian, requested a second preliminary competency screening order after Palmer refused to show up for the initial exam. Akulian claimed it was needed and promised Palmer would “interact appropriately” this time. In order to be considered mentally competent to stand trial a defendant must understand the charges against him and be able to participate in his defense.
Judge Brandt accepted this request, reissuing an order for preliminary screening to determine Palmer’s competency.
Parties are slated to reconvene on Feb. 13.