Murder Defendant Arrested in Maryland, Misses DC Arraignment

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Andrew Ellis was absent for the court hearing at which his co-defendant, Marques Johnson, was arraigned in front of DC Superior Court Judge Robert Okun on Nov. 15. The prosecutor said Ellis had been arrested with a gun in Prince George’s County, Maryland, the previous day.

Ellis, 22, and Johnson, 42, are charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed, assault with intent to kill while armed, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a convict. Ellis is also charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and an additional charge of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence. The charges stem from their alleged involvement in the shooting death of Leo Colter, 56, on Oct. 1, 2023, on the 900 block of 15th Street NW.

At the arraignment, Johnson pleaded not guilty. His attorney, Kevin Robertson, asserted Johnson’s constitutional rights and requested a trial date.

Ellis’ attorney, Carrie Weletz, asked for a delay in choosing a trial date in order for her to meet with her client first. Court documents show that she was appointed to represent Ellis on Nov. 14.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on Dec. 10.