Murder Defendant Wants Guilty Plea Withdrawn

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On June 23, in what was supposed to be a sentencing hearing, a murder defendant attempted to withdraw his guilty plea.

Mohamed Goodwin, 35, originally pled guilty to second-degree murder while armed for his involvement in the death of Devonte Wilson. Wilson, 25, was shot and killed inside a car on the 700 block of Morton Street, NW on Dec. 4, 2020. 

At his sentencing, Goodwin claimed that he never intended to shoot Wilson but rather was trying to defend himself against another passenger in the vehicle.

Rather than decide immediately as requested by defense attorney Lee Smith, DC Superior Court Judge Anthony Epstein, set another hearing on the request.

Parties are expected to return for a ruling on July 17.