Judge Says He Will Deny Defendants Release Before Motion Filed

By Katie Gallagher [former] - June 21, 2022
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Shooting | Suspects | Victims |

DC Superior Court Judge Milton Lee said he plans on denying a homicide defendant’s release, citing potential danger to the community. 

David Beale, 24, is charged with first-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, unlawful possession of a firearm, armed carjacking and assault with intent to kill for allegedly shooting 43-year-old George Johnson, Jr. on the 800 block of Oglethorpe Street, NE on May 7, 2018.

Defense attorney Albert Amissah, during the June 17 hearing, said he will be filing a motion in the next month to request Beale be released from DC Jail. 

The prosecutor said evidence was recently provided, including DNA evidence to the defense. Judge Lee plans to have an Innocence Protection Act hearing, but in the meantime, is allowing the defendant’s DNA to be tested. 

The prosecutor plans to file more charges as well as a severance motion, asking Judge Lee to grant separate jury trials for the different charges. 

“If you want to file it you can but the likelihood I’ll grant it is low,” Judge Lee said in response.  He cited the numerous charges filed against Beale as the reason for potential denial of bail.

Beale’s family was in attendance at the status hearing and could be heard shouting, “love you” to him. Beale responded with “love you more” before exiting the courtroom.

Parties are set to reconvene on Sept. 2 for a status hearing.