Murder Defendant Denied Release

DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan denied a release request for a murder defendant, citing the seriousness of the allegations on March 11.

Franklin Dorn, 45, is charged with murder one for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of Antonio Brown, 28, on Aug. 6, 2023 on the 1200 block of North Capitol Street, NW.

Dorn’s attorney, Kevin Irving, requested Dorn be released while awaiting trial. Judge Ryan declined to consider release due to the violent nature of the offense.

Additionally, Judge Ryan continued the hearing in order to give the defense and prosecution additional time to submit documents.

Parties are slated to reconvene Mar. 14.

Murder Defendant on Release Awaiting Trial

A murder defendant will remain out of jail on his own recognizance with a promise to appear at trial before DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan on March 11.

Julian Ruffin, 34, is charged with murder two while armed for his alleged involvement in the fatal stabbing of Alphonso Lee, 38, on Oct. 7, 2022 on the 1500 block of Butler Street, SE.

A trial date is set for April 1, and all parties indicated they are ready to proceed.

During a March 11 hearing, there was discussion over an outstanding protective order concerning identification of individuals seen in body-worn camera footage. Judge Ryan indicated that he will review the evidence, including transcripts and video footage, and issue a decision from chambers.

Ruffin in spite of his technical release will stay on GPS monitoring.

Parties are slated to reconvene March 14.

Stabbing Defendant Accepts Plea Deal

A stabbing defendant accepted a plea deal extended by prosecutors before DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan on March 11.

Marquita Holloman, 36, was originally charged with two counts of assault with intent to kill and two counts of aggravated assault knowingly while armed for her involvement in a stabbing that occurred on Sept. 13, 2023 on the 2000 block of Martin Luther King Jr Avenue, SE.

Holloman pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated assault knowingly while armed, while the prosecution agreed to dismiss all other charges. By pleading guilty, Holloman waives her right to a trial and an appeal.

The maximum sentence for aggravated assault while armed is 30 years in prison and/or a $75,000 fine. Holloman faces 48-to-120 months in prison due to her criminal history score.

The prosecution asked that the defendant remain held, despite her lack of a criminal history, as this was an extremely violent offense. The two victims sustained serious injuries, including nerve damage and the loss of an eye, according to the prosecution.

Sentencing is set for May 13.

Jury Reaches Guilty Verdict For Homicide Defendant

A jury found a murder suspect guilty in a five-year-old shooting case before DC Superior Court Judge Danya Dayson on March 10.

Guy Johnson, 57, was originally charged with first-degree murder premeditated while armed, assault with intent to kill while armed, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction for his alleged involvement in the murder of 28-year-old Kriston Robinson on March 25, 2020, on the 1600 block of 19th Street, SE.

Following deliberations, Johnson was found guilty of second-degree murder while armed, two counts of possession of firearm during a crime of violence, assault with intent to kill while armed, and unlawful possession of a firearm.

With recovered bullet fragments, personal and expert witness testimony, and camera footage from the night of the incident, prosecutors claimed they provided extensive evidence to prove Johnson’s guilt. “Johnson intended to kill Kriston” said the prosecution.

Johnson’s defense attorney, Kevin Mosley, claimed that the prosecution concocted a story and failed to present substantive evidence proving Johnson responsible for Robinson’s murder.

“Not one person identified Johnson as the shooter,” said Mosley.

Parties are slated to reconvene May 23 for sentencing.

Shooting Investigation Leads to Arrest in Northwest Firearm Offenses

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) announced the arrest of 20-year-old Amon Ward in connection with multiple firearm offenses in Northwest D.C. On Feb 17, officers responded to gunfire on the 3000 block of 14th Street, where Ward allegedly fired a gun and fled. He was later apprehended and charged with Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle, among other charges, after a search of his residence revealed stolen property and firearm components.

CORRECTION: 02.19.25 MPD Arrests Southeast Shooting Suspect

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) announced the arrest of a 14-year-old juvenile male in connection with a shooting incident that occurred on Feb 15 in the 100 block of L Street, Southeast. The suspect allegedly fired shots at several victims, but no injuries were reported. The juvenile has been charged with Assault With A Dangerous Weapon.

02.19.25 MPD Investigating Northeast Fatal Shooting

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) announced they are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred on Feb 19 in Northeast Washington, D.C. Officers found 23-year-old Jaydon Parson of Northwest, DC, with gunshot wounds on the 700 block of H Street, Northeast. Despite life-saving efforts, Parson succumbed to his injuries.

Carjacking Suspect’s Release Pending, Co-Defendant Remains at Large

A shooting defendant appeared before DC Superior Court Judge Carmen McLean to discuss release for a parole hearing on March 11.

Peguy Sikadi, 31, and Lamar Stephens, 37, are charged with armed carjacking, five counts of robbery while armed, five counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, eleven counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and two counts of unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction for their alleged involvement in a May 26, 2024 carjacking on the 2000 block of 13th Street, NW.

Sikadi failed to appear and is being pursued under a bench warrant.

Stephen’s attorney, Marnitta King, requested his release so that he could attend a US District Court hearing concerning his parole. The judge opted to take the matter under advisement. Judge McLean will issue a decision from chambers next week.

Stephens remains in custody.

Parties are slated to reconvene April 8.

Courtroom Disruptions Complicate 2021 Homicide Trial

DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park reminded courtroom visitors to stay calm and avoid interacting with witnesses after a fight broke out during a turbulent murder trial proceeding on March 11.

Nyjell Outler, 22, is charged with first-degree murder premeditated while armed, assault with intent to kill while armed, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, and four counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, for his alleged involvement in the murder of Demetris Johnson, 21, on March 20, 2021 on the unit block of Madison Street, NE at a gender reveal party. The incident also left another victim injured in both legs. All charges face an aggravating factor of allegedly being committed during Outler’s release in another matter.

The prosecution called Johnson’s best friend as an eyewitness to the shooting after he previously tried to plead the Fifth Amendment during grand jury testimony. After receiving immunity, he ultimately agreed to testify, and his defense attorney, Brian McDaniel, was present.

The witness identified both victims and the defendant but claimed that his memory was unclear from that night because he was “traumatized” after seeing his friend’s death. The memory lapse left him unable to recall whether anyone had a gun or what prompted the shooting.

Outler’s attorney, Gemma Stevens, used the memory lapse to argue that the witness could not confirm if they had actually planned to rob Outler, supporting the defense’s claim of self-defense.

Near the end of the witness’s testimony, one of Johnson’s family members stormed out of the courtroom, saying that the witness, “couldn’t believe he would say that.”

After the testimony, a shouting match broke out among the audience, prompting several US Marshals to restore order. Judge Park paused the trial to remind everyone of the courtroom rules, including no interaction with witnesses.

Prosecutors also called a Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) detective assigned to the Capital Area Regional Fugitive Task Force (CARFTF), who described efforts to locate Outler after a warrant was issued for his arrest in February of 2022.

According to the detective, Outler was added to the US Marshals Service’s “15 Most Wanted” list, leading to a nationwide search, including California and Florida, where Outler had known associates.

A Palm Beach Police Department (PBPD) sergeant testified that an anonymous tip led to Outler’s location at an apartment complex in the city. After a brief surveillance, he was apprehended.

The prosecution called on a former MPD officer who monitored Outler’s social media accounts in 2022, including an Instagram Live video, which helped identify Outler and his possible location.

Prosecutors also called on an inmate who allegedly interacted with Outler while both were incarcerated. The witness refused to cooperate, claiming he was forced to be there despite knowing nothing about the case and having never seen Outler.

He accused the prosecution of intimidating him and “trying to force him to say things.” He requested his attorney and could not recall his previous testimony given to a grand jury.

Parties are slated to reconvene on March 12.

Drive-By Shooting Defendant Pleads Not Guilty at Arraignment

A defendant accused of a drive-by non-fatal shooting pleaded not guilty at an arraignment before DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman on March 11.

Jeremiah Downing, 24, is charged with assault with intent to kill while armed, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, carrying a pistol without a license outside a home/business, possession of an unregistered firearm, and unlawful possession of ammunition. The charges stem from his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting that injured one individual on Nov. 27, 2022, on I-395 Southbound at the exit of Maine Avenue, SW.

According to court documents, Downing allegedly shot the victim through the passenger window of his white pick-up truck.

Brian McDaniel, Downing’s attorney, informed the court that Downing is currently a student at Southern University and A&M College in Louisiana, where he lives with his parents. McDaniel requested the trial date to accommodate Downing’s school schedule.

Downing, present via Webex, pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on March 14.

Judge Revokes Stabbing Defendant’s Jail Phone Privileges

DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt revoked a stabbing defendant’s phone privileges while he’s detained at the Department of Corrections (DoC) in DC during a hearing on March 12.

James Callen, 40, is charged with assault with intent to kill while armed and aggravated assault knowingly while armed for his alleged involvement in a July 13, 2024 stabbing incident on the 1600 block of Morris Road, SE.

On March 8, prosecutors filed a motion to revoke phone privileges for Callen, citing he has continuously called the victim from jail despite being ordered to stay away and not contact her. Prosecutors claimed Callen has called her up to 12 times a day, and had other people the victim doesn’t know reaching out to tell her she should speak with Callen.

According to the prosecution, Judge Brandt previously admonished Callen against calling the victim, so the only sanction that would guarantee he follows the no contact order would be to prohibit him from using the phone at the jail.

Alvin Thomas, Callen’s attorney, stated he hadn’t had a chance to listen to the calls so he was not denying or admitting that he made them, but requested Judge Brandt only warn Callen so he can continue to communicate with his family and loved ones in the community.

Judge Brandt reiterated he was sanctioned in October of 2024, and had been originally alerted by DC Superior Court Judge Eric Glover in July. “That’s the one and only bite he’ll get out of this apple,” Judge Brandt stated, adding “at this time, I am revoking his telephone privileges.”

Judge Brandt added if he continues to find a way to have people contact the victim for him, she will request DoC put him in administrative segregation.

Parties are slated to reconvene March 28.

Stabbing Defendant Waives Preliminary Hearing, in Plea Negotiations

DC Superior Court Judge Deborah Israel accepted a stabbing defendant’s waiver of his right to a preliminary hearing during a March 12 hearing.

Lukas Nawrocki, 19, is charged with assault with significant bodily injury for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal stabbing on Feb. 1 at the intersection of 23rd and L Street, NW.

According to court documents, Nawrocki is accused of stabbing a random victim with a pair of scissors after arguing with his parents the night of the incident.

Nawrocki’s attorney, Pleasant Brodnax III, alerted the judge of Nawrocki’s wish to waive his right to a preliminary hearing. Parties are working on plea negotiations.

Parties are slated to reconvene March 24.

Parties Jockey Over Admissible Trial Evidence

DC Superior Court Judge Danya Dayson is weighing prosecution and defense motions related to admissible evidence in a non-fatal shooting trial on March 8.

Tyshay Moore, 27, and Javonee Jackson, 25, are charged with assault with intent to kill while armed, four counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, assault with significant bodily injury while armed, conspiracy, and simple assault in connection to a nonfatal shooting on May 10, 2023 on the 700 block of 7th Street, NW.

Judge Dayson took under advisement a motion filed from Moore’s defense attorney, Hannah Claudio to suppress tangible evidence from shell casings found at the crime scene which Claudio said did not match a recovered firearm.

As both parties moved on to discuss the acceptable arguments at trial, Judge Dayson ruled with the prosecution to bar defense attorneys Varsha Govindaraju and Claudio, who represent Moore, and Alvin Thomas who represents Jackson respectively, from making the “no gun was ever found” claim in the case.

Moore and Jackson’s attorneys then asked the prosecution to reveal the identity of the detective the prosecution intends to use as a trial witness. They claim it’s necessary to conduct their investigation properly on their clients’ behalf.

Additionally, the defense filed a motion asking the prosecution to return Moore’s and Jackson’s personal property, as well as letters and phone rosters that are evidence in the case.

The prosecution says it has no intention of keeping MPD property.

Judge Dayson asked for written submissions supporting the motions which she will address in a hearing on March 21.

Judge Rules on Prosecution’s Evidence in Co-Defendant Mass Shooting Case

DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz heard arguments about the nickname of a murder weapon in pre-trial motions in a mass shooting case with six co-defendants during a hearing on March 10.

Erwin Dubose, 30, Kamar Queen, 27, Damonta Thompson, 28, and William Johnson-Lee, 22, are charged with conspiracy, first-degree murder while armed, assault with intent to kill, among other charges, for their alleged involvement in the mass shooting that killed 31-year-old Donnetta Dyson, 24-year-old Keenan Braxton, and 37-year-old Johnny Joyner. The incident occurred on the 600 block of Longfellow Street, NW on Sept. 4, 2021, and injured three additional individuals.

According to court documents, the suspects allegedly conspired to commit the shooting against individuals associated with the Kennedy Street crew (KDY) in retaliation for a shooting that occurred one hour earlier. The suspects allegedly drove a black Honda Accord to the scene, emerged from the vehicle armed and wearing masks, and returned to the vehicle after shooting.

Mussay Rezene, 32, and Toyia Johnson, 52, are charged with accessory after the fact while armed and tampering with physical evidence for their alleged involvement in assisting the other defendants get rid of evidence and avoid getting caught.

During the hearing, Judge Kravitz heard arguments on the prosecution’s motion to admit evidence establishing background, context, and motive. Prosecutors sought to admit Instagram messages sent by Dubose in the summer of 2021, emphasizing their importance as an “anchor” in their “stream of evidence” necessary for the context of the homicides.

Prosecutors claimed “drake” used by Dubose in the messages is slang for Draco, the type of gun allegedly used in the homicides. They plan to call to validate their claim.

Steven Ogilvie, Dubose’s attorney, objected to the messages, arguing “drake” is ambiguous because it is a very broad firearm category. All defense lawyers supported the objection.

Judge Kravitz ruled the messages about “drakes” are admissible and relevant to show Dubose was apparently trying to get a gun months before the shooting, making it more likely he had one at the time of the homicides. The judge added that the ambiguity is to the weight, not the admissibility of the evidence.

Judge Kravitz held the evidence is admissible against all the defendants because individuals associated with Dubose are more likely to have committed their alleged crimes if Dubose was the shooter.

The prosecution also sought to introduce evidence related to a nonfatal shooting on Aug. 17, 2021 they claim Dubose committed using the same firearm he allegedly used in the homicides. Prosecutors have a firearm expert to testify and support their claim that the same M92 Draco was used in both shootings. They argue the messages show Dubose’s intent to acquire a Draco and the shooting is proof he got the gun succeeded.

Prosecutors added that the shooting is evidence of prior animosity towards KDY because it was the “same group of actors” and provides context as to why KDY is the choice of retaliation in the homicides.

Ogilvie argued the shooting should not be admissible because there is no direct evidence or identification of Dubose as the shooter.

Judge Kravitz prohibited evidence of the shooting because the prosecution’s argument is “circular and ultimately not persuasive” and without evidence there is no logic to their theory. The judge elaborated that the evidence is not strong enough Dubose was the shooter, risks unfair prejudice, and “requires too much speculation.”

Pretrial arguments are ongoing.

Prosecution Concludes Non-Fatal Shooting Defendant ‘Took a Barbecue That Day and Made it a Tragedy’

Parties debated whether a nonfatal shooting was an unreasonable act of aggression or justified self-defense in closing arguments before DC Superior Court Judge Deborah Israel on March 10.

Diamond Early, 32, is charged with assault with significant bodily injury while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, simple assault, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, carrying a pistol without a license, possession of an unregistered firearm, and unlawful possession of ammunition for her alleged involvement in a shooting that left one victim injured in the leg on July 31, 2023 on the 4000 block of Kansas Avenue, NW.

Prosecutors said that Early allegedly struck one of the victim’s children, an incident captured on surveillance, and remained at the scene. She then allegedly shot the victim in the leg when she and her sister verbally confronted Early.

The prosecution argued Early’s actions were not self-defense but “unnecessary, unreasonable, excessive.” They cited the victim’s statements describing Early’s behavior prior to the shooting, identifying it as smug, happy, and mocking. “Is that consistent with someone who is afraid for their life?” the prosecution said.

Early had other opportunities to leave or defend her children in a calm manner, according to the prosecution, options which she chose not to take.

“Early took a barbecue that day and made it a tragedy,” said the prosecutors.

Antoini Jones, Early’s defense attorney, showed video clips before she slapped the victim’s child. It showed her children crying as an apparent result of other kids allegedly hitting them. She “made contact” with the five-year-old, claimed Jones, but her “tunnel vision was to get to her daughter.”

The victim had previously testified she was biting off her nails before confronting Early. Jones argued this action was odd if the intention was only to “ask questions.”

Jones presented a video to the jury which depicted a witness from the apartment heard to day, “They [the sisters] are about to beat the shit out of her [Early].” The gunshot happened immediately after, according to Jones, and urged the jury to “imagine being the person on the other end of that, with your child.”

Jones claimed the “case is reeking of self-defense,” considering Early fired a single shot, hit no vital organs and the victim was able to walk after.

In their rebuttal, the prosecution asserted Early “can’t beat up children as an adult” and reiterated she did not use reasonable force to defend herself against an unarmed victim.

“Believe your own eyes, not arguments of attorneys,” the prosecutors stated.

Parties are slated to reconvene when the jury reaches a verdict.

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