Murder Defendant Pleads Not Guilty to Six Felony Charges 

By Aerial Lopez [former] , Jenna Ferrick [former] - February 6, 2023
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Shooting | Suspects | Victims |

Johnwann Elliot was officially arraigned on Feb. 6 during a felony arraignment court hearing. 

On March 15, 2022, Elliot, 29, allegedly shot Nikia Young. Young, 37, was seen on surveillance footage walking through the 2200 block of Minnesota Avenue, SE when she encountered the defendant who shot her seven times to the body and face. 

Defense attorneys Kevin O’Sullivan and Roderick Thompson are representing Elliot. O’Sullivan entered a not guilty plea for first-degree murder while armed during release, unlawful possession of a firearm during release, two counts of possession of a firearm during a violent offense during release, and carrying a pistol without a license. 

Defense counsel also invoked Elliot’s right to a speedy trial for the homicide case.

Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officers collected several witness testimonies from the scene that afternoon, including statements from the victim’s family and friends, according to court documents. When questioning the friends and family of the victim, officers inquired into possible motives, including a rumor that the victim allegedly stole a firearm from the defendant. 

Even though Elliot is associated with a local address, he was arrested by members of the Capital Area Regional Fugitive Task Force (CARFTF) in a hotel room on May 19, 2022. 

DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffian set a status hearing for June 6.