Jury Finds Murder Defendant Guilty on All Counts

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A jury found Amard Jefferson guilty on all five counts in a murder trial before DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt on Dec. 20.

Jefferson, 25, was found guilty of second-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, unlawful possession of a firearm by a convict, carrying a pistol without a license outside his home or business, and obstruction of justice. The charges stemmed from the fatal shooting of 20-year-old Kendall Brown on the 3000 block of Nelson Place, SE, on Aug. 7, 2021.

The shooting took place at the apartment of Jefferson’s then-girlfriend, who was an acquaintance of Brown.

In trial, a witness testified to going to the apartment with Brown to recover some bottles of liquor left by a mutual friend. According to the witness, Brown and Jefferson began shouting at each other, leading to Jefferson shooting Brown.

Jason Clark, Jefferson’s defense attorney, cast doubt on the witness’ reliability by highlighting contradictions between what she told police immediately after the incident and what she said in her court testimony. Clark also drew attention to the witness’ medical history of memory issues.

Throughout the trial, Clark characterized the visit by Brown and the witness as a home invasion. In closing arguments, he suggested Jefferson might have accidentally fired his gun while defending his home.

The prosecutor focused her closing arguments on the strong evidence that Jefferson was the one who shot Brown. She told the jury Jefferson locked Brown in the apartment and fled, delaying first responders from providing Brown medical aid.

Jefferson’s sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 14, 2025.