Murder Suspect’s Detention Continues Under New DC Law

By Hunter Odom [former] - July 21, 2023
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Shooting | Suspects | Victims |

On July 21, DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan granted a prosecutor’s request for continued detention of a homicide defendant under a new law as he awaits trial. 

Derricko Johnson, 19, is charged with first-degree murder while armed, three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and two counts of assault with intent to kill while armed for his alleged connection to the shooting of 16-year-old Justin Johnson at the 2200 block of Savannah Terrace, SE on May 26, 2022. 

The prosecution argued that the case against Johnson is stronger than it was a year ago at his preliminary hearing based on recent evidence. According to prosecutors, his rearrest in April after non-compliance with his release conditions should lead to continued detention pending his trial date.

Judge Raffinan, after considering Johnson’s “history and characteristics,” granted the prosecution’s request for continued pre-trial detention in the wake of DC Mayor Muriel Bowser’s signing the Prioritizing Public Safety Emergency Amendment Act of 2023 on July 20. It expands pretrial incarceration for defendants, both adult and juvenile, who have allegedly committed violent crimes. 

Parties are expected back Sept. 22.