Murder Defendant Deemed Competent to Stand Trial

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On Oct. 5, DC Superior Court Judge Marisa Demeo found a homicide defendant mentally competent to stand trial based on a report from the Department of Behavioral Health (DBH).

Darius Anderson, 22, is charged with first-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and two counts of carrying a pistol without a license outside of a home or business, for the alleged murder of 30-year-old Israel Mattocks on June 15, 2022 on the 200 block of 35th Street, NE.

The fatal shooting was reportedly related to an argument about a shoe purchase. Anderson had previously withdrawn a guilty plea in the case.

The DBH report indicated that the defendant was competent and both the prosecution and defense had no objections.

Anderson’s defense attorney, Kevin Irving, stated Anderson is requesting his previous attorney be reappointed as counsel.

Judge Demeo stated a separate hearing needs to be set to address a new counsel appointment, and does not know if it is feasible to reappoint the previous attorney.

A motion hearing was scheduled for Oct. 12.

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