Judge Says ‘It’s Unfair’ to Hold Defendant Pending Trial

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On April 10, DC Superior Court Judge Michael O’Keefe granted release for a non-fatal shooting defendant with specified conditions.

Jonah Harris, 47, and Gerald Jones-Hall, 24, are charged with conspiracy to rob while armed, two counts of assault with intent to kill while armed, and assault with intent to commit robbery while armed, among other charges, for their alleged involvement in the shooting and attempted robbery of two victims at the 1300 block of Good Hope Road, SE, on July 10, 2023. Both victims sustained non-life-threatening injuries.

Judge O’Keefe began by referencing a previous motion to sever with the stipulation that the co-defendants would remain joined on the condition that the prosecution not introduce a statement from Jones-Hall that allegedly places Harris at the scene of the incident.

During today’s hearing, Judge O’Keefe stated that the prosecution would be able to use other parts of the statement, but not the specific statement that connects both defendants.

The defense had previously filed a written a motion requesting release for Harris pending trial, as Hall-Jones was already on release.. The prosecution stated that given the nature of his offense, it would be impossible to ensure community safety.

Judge O’Keefe said he would grant Harris pretrial release because it was “unfair to hold him” for a year before his trial. As part of his release conditions, Judge O’Keefe ordered a stay-away order from the victims and the location of the offense.

A representative from the Pretrial Services Agency (PSA) also introduced a report that found Jones-Hall had tested positive for drugs. His attorney, Janai Reed, clarified that this came from a change in medication and not the use of any illegal substances.

“He tested positive because his mental health medication had changed,” Reed said. “There was no illicit use.”

Parties are set to reconvene April 4, 2025.

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