DC Superior Court Judge Robert Hildum denied a release request from a minister in a shooting case on March 10.
Marcellos Harris, 30, is charged with aggravated assault while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting at the 3000 block of Stanton Road, SE on March 6.
According to court documents, the incident reportedly began as a verbal confrontation between Harris and the victim. At this point Harris pulled out his firearm allegedly and fired two shots at the victim. The victim sustained gunshot related injuries to the abdomen and upper leg.
After Harris waived his right to a preliminary hearing, his attorney Frances D’Antuono requested Judge Hildum grant his release.
D’Antuono argued Harris was not a danger to the community because of his profound positive impact on the community. According to D’Antuono, Harris is a minister and leads multiple philanthropic projects including housing programs, food kitchens, homeless assistance, and addiction counseling.
“[Harris] lives a stable, productive and law-abiding life,” said D’Antuono.
The prosecution argued against releasing Harris because of the nature and circumstances of the offense. Additionally, the prosecution said they have strong evidence against Harris, including video footage from the victim’s phone from the incident, body-worn camera footage from responding officers, and statements made by Harris when officers responded to the scene.
According to the prosecutor, Harris said “I messed up, don’t shoot me,” before he was arrested.
“This is a crime of violence with a firearm” said Judge Hildum. He stated the weight of the evidence is strong and “there is not much doubt” in the evidence.
“This is a disturbing incident where the victim could have been killed,” Judge Hildum said before denying Harris’ request for release.
The parties are scheduled to reconvene on April 29.
