A pair of suspects declined a plea offer in connection to a homicide, opting for a trial in a hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Danya Dayson on Aug. 14.
Kevin Hider, 21, is charged with murder while armed and committing a robbery for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 28-year-old Kenneth Barksdale on Dec. 16, 2023 on the 1200 block of 44th Place, SE. Barksdale sustained two gunshot wounds to his arm and abdomen.
HIder’s co-defendant, Eric Sheffield, 22, faces an eleven count indictment in the same incident for first-degree felony murder with aggravating circumstances, conspiracy assault with intent to commit robbery while armed, unauthorized use of a vehicle in a crime of violence, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence while armed, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, first-degree murder while armed, carrying a firearm during a crime of violence, carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business.
D’Andre Montgomery, 20, was initially charged with first-degree murder in Barksdale’s killing but a jury found him guilty of conspiracy, and second-degree murder while armed, and unauthorized use of a vehicle during a crime of violence on May 26.
During the joint hearing both Hider, represented by Lisbeth Sapirstein, and Sheffield,counseled by Nathaniel Mensah, rejected an offer to plead guilty to second-degree murder in lieu of an indictment on greater charges. Under the deal, Hider would have faced a sentence of 14-to-21 years in prison. Sheffield’s term would have ranged from 11-to-14 years in prison.
After Judge Dayson queried the defendants about whether they fully understood the plea they said they discussed the matter with their lawyers and answered in the affirmative. Meanwhile, Sheffield indicated his intention to try and sever his case from Hider’s.
The next hearing in the case is scheduled for Oct. 23. The trial date is set for Aug. 16, 2027.
