Murder Defendant Denies Involvement at Arraignment

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A defendant pleaded not guilty during an arraignment before DC Superior Court Judge Anthony Epstein on July 19.

Randolph Thomas, 41, is charged with first-degree murder while armed, assault with intent to kill while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, five counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, robbery while armed, and first-degree burglary while armed, for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 19-year-old Emmanuel Durant Jr. on Dec. 31, 2009 on the 200 block of Webster Street, NW.

Thomas was arrested and charged in connection to the murder in October 2023.

During the hearing, Tammy Thom, Thomas’ defense attorney, alerted the court of his intent to plead not guilty to all charges, and asserted his constitutional rights, including the right to a speedy trial.

Thomas’ attorney requested that parties move toward trial preparation and set a date for trial in August 2025.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Oct. 18 for a status hearing.