DC Superior Court Judge Danya Dayson granted defense attorneys in a shooting case more time to decide how the prosecution’s late filing will affect their trial strategy on Sept. 30.
Ato Ocran, 46, is charged with assault with intent to kill while armed, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, five counts of possession of an unregistered firearm, four counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, destruction of property worth $1,000 or more, and carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting that occurred on the 2200 block of 13th Street, NE on June 3.
The case was slated for jury selections and openings on Sept. 30. However, the prosecution introduced new evidence including a gun box, magazine, and ammunition that was allegedly found in the trunk of Ocran’s Tesla on the day of the shooting hours before the hearing.
It is unclear whether these findings are connected to the 9-millimeter firearm that was used in the shooting.
According to the prosecution, there is a transcript of the victim saying Ocran threatened to get his gun and proceeded to his trunk where the gun box, magazine, and ammunition were stored.
Defense attorneys Elizabeth Paige White and Kevann Gardner expressed concern, explaining that the prosecution did not inform them that they were planning to use this evidence, and how this ultimately impacts the defense’s theory.
Judge Dayson asked the prosecution why this evidence was not shared with the defense earlier.
The prosecution responded, saying the defense was aware of the transcripts from the victim’s testimonies. However, Judge Dayson reiterated that “there is a reason we ask for notice regardless of what is on record.”
Parties are slated to reconvene and discuss these issues on Oct. 1.
