Murder Defendants Ask Judge to Lift Separation Order

By D.C. Witness Staff - August 23, 2018
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Suspects |

Three co-defendants in a murder case told a D.C. Superior Court judge Aug. 23 that they would like their separation order lifted.

William Cunningham, 31, Marcus Martin and Marc Butler are charged with first-degree murder while armed and conspiracy for their alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of Derryk Johnson on the 600 block of N Street, NW in 2016.  

During a status hearing, Dana Page, Martin’s defense attorney, requested the separation order be lifted. She said, as a result of the separation order, Martin, 21, had been in solitary confinement for the duration of his time at D.C. jail.

Dorsey Jones, Butler’s defense attorney, also supported the motion. According to Jones, Butler, 22, has been prevented from entering a GED program because of the separation order.

Subsequently, the prosecution approached Judge Craig Iscoe and explained their rationale to maintain the separation order. Judge Iscoe said he considers the reasons valid and denied the request to lift the order. Even so, he did show concern about the restrictions the defendants faced. 

Judge Iscoe said he would inquire about the situation with D.C. jail authorities.

A status hearing is scheduled for Oct. 9.