Murder Defendant Requests Relocation for Home Confinement

By D.C. Witness Staff - August 6, 2019
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Suspects | Victims |

During a status hearing on Aug. 5, a murder defendant, who is released on home confinement, would like to be held at a different address.

Wilbert Whitaker, 70, is charged with first-degree murder while armed for his alleged role in the shooting death of 30-year-old Leo Hackett on the 800 block of 21st St., NE on May 2, 2016.

Whitaker said his current residence has become difficult for him to live in. He did not disclose more information in open court.

As a result, defense counsel said they would request Whitaker be confined to a different address. As of Aug. 6, a motion for a change in location had not been filed.

The defense also requested that another hearing be scheduled later in the month to give the prosecution time to respond to the motion.

Whitaker was released under the high intensity supervision program (HISP) in May of 2016. He has been under home confinement ever sense.

In addition to the motion, defense attorney Mani Golzari said he was ready to test DNA material.  However, Golizari, said he is waiting on the prosecution to provide the materials to the lab.

The prosecution indicated that the evidence would be sent to the defense during the week of Aug. 5.

In response to the defense’s request, DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman scheduled a status hearing on Aug. 21.