Bond Decision Delayed as New Attorneys Take Over Murder, Mass Shooting Case

DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan granted additional time to a new defense attorney to review the details of a homicide case before making a decision on the prosecution’s bond change request during a hearing on Feb. 28.

Gerald Thomas, 22, is charged with first-and-second-degree murder while armed, four counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, attempted kidnapping while armed, carrying a pistol without a license, and seven counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, for his alleged involvement in a mass shooting that resulted in the death of Dasha Cleary, 20, on Jan. 27, 2022, on the 4400 block of Connecticut Avenue, NW. The incident left four others injured.

The prosecution requested a bond status change to 1329, which states “a person who has been conditionally released and who has violated a condition of release shall be subject to revocation of release, an order for detention…”

The prosecution argued Thomas’ detention is necessary as he was charged in connection to a shooting in Prince George’s County that occurred during his release related to this murder incident.

The prosecutor also mentioned Thomas is currently serving a 12 year sentence in Maryland, although it is unclear if it’s related to the PG incident.

Dominique Winters, Thomas’ recently appointed attorney, requested more time for the new defense team to review previous hearings and prepare a cohesive rebuttal against the bond change, and Judge Ryan granted the defense motion.

Parties are slated to reconvene March 28 for a detention hearing.

Prosecutors Say DNA Evidence Links Suspect to A Homicide Victim

DNA testimony played a prominent role in a homicide trial before DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan on March 3.

Jerome Israel, 21, is charged with first-degree murder premeditated while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, unlawful discharge of a firearm, two charges of unauthorized use of a vehicle, three counts of carrying a pistol without a license, and two counts of destruction of property for his alleged involvement in the murder of ChaQuan Barbett, 24, on Aug. 23, 2022 on the 2300 block of Minnesota Ave, SE.

Prosecution called a Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) detective who investigated one of the recovered vehicles from a carjacking allegedly committed by Israel. The vehicle was stolen only a few blocks away from a residence linked to Israel and had a registered firearm in it at the time of the incident, according to what the vehicle’s owner told police.

Israel’s attorney, Lisbeth Sapirstein, emphasized that the gun was no longer in the vehicle when it was recovered and was not found during either of the two searches of Israel’s residences.

Prosecution also called a DNA analyst who examined evidence from the case, including clothing of Barbett’s and items found in one of the stolen vehicles. Although DNA is not 100 percent conclusive it showed an exponentially high probability that Israel’s DNA was on the tested evidence including a firearm, bottle, and Barbett’s pants.

Sapirstein, in her cross-examination, questioned if this DNA had to be transferred directly from the source. The witness confirmed that it is possible for the DNA to be transferred by a secondary source, with Sapirstein using a metaphor of shaking someone’s hand and then touching a pen that now has both of their DNA.

An MPD officer testified he used sterile swabs to collect potential DNA samples from the trigger, hand grip, and rear part of the slide and was tested for fingerprints using fingerprint powder and a light source. While he initially described the results as inconclusive, the defense pressed him for clarification, asking whether the results were inconclusive or if no prints were recovered. The officer ultimately admitted that no fingerprints were found.

Parties are slated to reconvene March 4.

Closing Arguments in Carjacking, Assault of Transgender Woman

Parties delivered closing arguments in a carjacking and kidnapping case linked to a assault of a transgender woman. The proceeding is being heard before DC Superior Court Judge Carmen McLean on March 3.

Nicolas Delgado, 31, is charged with unarmed carjacking, kidnapping, two counts of first-degree theft, two counts of robbery, second-degree theft, attempted credit card fraud, threat to kidnap or injure a person, and two counts of simple assault for his alleged involvement in an incident that occurred on July 8, 2020, at the 5400 block of Connecticut Avenue, NW.

Earlier the victim, who identified herself as the ex-girlfriend of Delgado testified he punched her multiple times in the face after accusing her of cheating. The victim said she’d seen Delgado “furious” before, but “his eyes looked different.”

She testified he then dragged her into the bathroom and cut off her hair with scissors and a razor.

While doing so, she stated he repeatedly called her the F-slur, an attack at the transgender victim. She claimed Delgado knew the significance of her hair, stating “It’s everything to me. It’s what makes me feel pretty.”

Prosecutors called a former officer with the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) who interviewed the victim and said she had significant swelling on her face from a physical altercation.

During cross-examination, Delgado’s defense attorney, Bryan Brookhard, confirmed with the witness that no marks, cuts, or bruises were visible on the victim’s face, despite the swelling.

Another MPD officer confirmed helped retrieve the victim’s allegedly stolen vehicle from Delgado, stating that he was cooperative during the encounter.

Ultimately, Brookhard motioned for a judgment of acquittal for Delgados’s charges but Judge McLean denied the request.

Prosecutors emphasized to the jury that Delgado “wanted to humiliate, berate, and degrade the victim.” They painted Delgado as an abuser who attempted to dehumanize the victim.

Once prosecutors rested, Brookhard focused his closing statement on inconsistencies in the victim’s testimony and that she didn’t ask for help on earlier occasions.

Parties will reconvene when the jury reaches a verdict.

Missing Witness Arrested in Teen Homicide Trial

DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman issued a warrant for a witness who failed to appear in court to finish his testimony in a homicide trial on March 3.

Daquan Gray, 23, is charged with first-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business for his alleged involvement in the murder of 15-year-old Jaylyn Wheeler, on the 600 block of Alabama Avenue, SE, on May 16, 2018.

Prosecutors informed the court of a voicemail they received from the witness that morning informing them, “I’m not going to be able to make it today, stuff came up in my life.” The witness previously requested a lawyer and refused to identify students at Ballou High School on security camera stills during his testimony on Feb. 27.

The court was later informed the missing witness was arrested under a warrant. The prosecutors requested a hold, which Judge Edelman granted, The witness will remain detained until he concludes his testimony.

Meanwhile, a ballistics expert testified a tested firearm could not be excluded as the source of the bullets and casings recovered from the scene.

An analyst from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (OCME) reported that Wheeler’s death was a homicide caused by multiple gunshot wounds to his back, side, abdomen, and neck.

In other testimony, a retired police officer said the tape cordoning off the scene did not initially cover the entire area.

During cross examination, Hanna Perry, Gray’s defense attorney, presented video footage from the witness’ body-worn camera. It showed him shouting, “Move the tape back, 50 feet back” to other officers on the scene, and that he found a cellphone on the ground. The video further revealed someone’s car briefly entering the alleyway where the shooting took place, before being told to back out.

A person who lived near the incident said police officers knocked on his door to see his surveillance footage. The video provided showed two men running through the witness’ backyard, then stashing an object underneath a tarp. The witness testified that it was a gun, which police recovered.

Additional video captured the two men walking out of the witness’ front yard and putting their hands up as a police car drove by.

Parties are slated to reconvene March 4.

Judge Modifies Shooting Co-Defendants Confinement For Job Search

DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz agreed to change home confinement orders that made it difficult for co-defendants to attend job interviews during a hearing on Feb. 28.

Eric Latney, 28, and James Crossland, 28, are charged with conspiracy, assault with intent to kill while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon and two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, for their alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting. The incident took place on July 8, 2021, on the 200 block of 56th street NE.

During the hearing, the prosecution mentioned a previous modification to confinement orders of defendants on Jan 24.

The prosecution opposed the request of a 7 p. m. to 6 a. m. curfew that would allow Crossland to see and take care of his children, stating that the 24-hour home confinement already allowed Crossland to seek employment opportunities.

Latney’s defense attorney, Nikki Lotze, and Crossland’s defense attorney, Hannah Claudio, argued that both defendants are able to seek employment opportunities, but it is extremely difficult given the time restrictions of the confinement orders.

Since Latney has already been allowed to leave his residence for employment, the modifications will make attending confirmed job interviews convenient and work more hours. The judge ordered that Latney should run his job-seeking plans through a community officer before leaving home.

Claudio argued that throughout Crossland’s current confinement order, he remained compliant for three years and five months, was not arrested on additional charges, held a temporary job, and tested negative for every drug test. Claudio also argued that with these changes, Crossland will be able to take care of his children more, upon his request.

The judge partially granted both attorneys’ requests, stating that defendants should only be leaving home “for confirmed and pre-approved job search activities.”

Parties are slated to reconvene on Oct. 10.

Defendant Weighs Plea Agreement in Stabbing Case

Prosecutors granted a stabbing defendant additional time to consider a plea offer on Feb. 28 in front of DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan.

Marquita Holloman, 35, is charged with two counts of assault with intent to kill while armed and two counts of aggravated assault knowingly while armed for her alleged involvement in a stabbing incident that occurred on Sept. 13, 2023 on the 2400 block of Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE. The incident injured two individuals, one losing an eye.

The prosecution collected six swabs of suspected blood along with a purse and jewelry as evidence, but they do not plan to do any testing and Holloman waived her right to independent forensic testing.

Plea negotiations were set to expire on Feb. 28, but defense attorney Susan Ellis requested to hold the plea open until the following week, which the prosecution agreed to.

The prosecution placed the plea offer on record, stating that Holloman would plead guilty to one count of aggravated assault while armed, in exchange for a dismissal of all other charges.

Ellis noted the defense’s counter offer for the charge to not include “while armed,” which would lessen the required sentencing range based on Holloman’s criminal history score, but the prosecution rejected this offer.

Parties are slated to reconvene on March 4.

Judge Rejects Youth Tempered Sentence for Shooting Defendant

DC Superior Court Judge Marisa Demeo denied a young shooting defendant’s request to be sentenced under the Youth Rehabilitation Act (YRA) on Feb. 28. The law gives judges discretion to impose a sentence that seals a young offender’s record if the terms of the judgement are successfully completed.

On Dec. 2, 2024, Marcel Palmer, 17, pleaded guilty to assault with intent to kill for his involvement in a shooting on June 12, 2024 on the 2700 block of Sheridan Road, SE. An individual sustained life threatening injuries during the incident.

According to court documents, Palmer jumped out of a car and chased the victim down the block, eventually shooting him in the leg.

Palmer was charged as an adult under Title 16 given the serious nature of the charges.

During sentencing, the prosecution requested a sentence of 72 months and against Judge Demeo’s sentencing Palmer under the YRA, due to the defendant’s criminal history and the seriousness of the case. They explained that the YRA was a benefit that the defendant didn’t earn.

Wole Falodun, Palmer’s attorney, asked Judge Demeo to sentence him under the YRA, arguing that at the time of the crime the defendant was only 16 years old. He asked the prosecution to consider Palmer’s circumstances and the fact that he was taking responsibility for his actions.

The defense asked the court to sentence towards the lower end of the sentencing guidelines – which is 60 months, and with the YRA.

In a letter to the court, Palmer expressed remorse and that he had unfairly inflicted his own pain onto the victim and the victim’s family.

Palmer shared that he’s using religion to deal with his anger issues which led to this incident, and has asked God to forgive him. He wanted everyone to know who he was, what he had gone through, and what he is doing to better himself.

However, Judge Demeo made it clear that a lengthy period of incarceration is needed for adequate deterrence.

Judge Demeo cited several compliance issues the on the defendant’s part and the seriousness of the crime, contrasted with the sentiments expressed in his letter.

Judge Demeo imposed a term of 72 months in confinement followed by three years of supervised release, and $100 due to the Crime Victims Compensation Fund. He was not granted the YRA.

No further dates were set.

Preliminary Hearing in Mass Shooting Case Hinges on Surveillance Video

A lead detective from the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) testified about surveillance video evidence from a mass shooting in a preliminary hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan on Feb. 28.

Andre Greene, 25, is charged with first-degree murder while armed for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 29-year-old Lamont Street and 50-year-old Jermaine Proctor, which occurred on July 18, 2024, on the 2200 block of Alabama Avenue SE. Two additional individuals sustained injuries during the incident.

The prosecution called a detective who previously testified that Greene was identified as a suspect through social media pictures and surveillance footage showing Greene and other individuals possibly involved in the incident.

In the hearing, the detective reviewed additional pictures and video footage to be entered as evidence along with witness testimonies from interviews he conducted.

The detective testified that during a search warrant execution of Greene’s house, officers recovered four firearms, one of which was modified to be fully automatic, along with ammunition, extended magazines, and multiple cell phones hidden inside a sectional of a couch.

The detective further stated that a key to a Dodge Charger was found in Greene’s bedroom, which was later matched to an Instagram story showing him in possession of the same key. Court documents claim a blue Dodge Charger was used by the suspects to transport from their neighborhood to the suspect vehicle before and after the shooting.

Investigators also uncovered photos of Greene’s allegedly posing with firearms, including an assault rifle and extended magazines, despite prior convictions prohibiting him from possessing guns.

During their cross-examination, defense attorney Shawn Sukumar questioned whether MPD had surveillance footage definitively confirming a connection between the blue Dodge Charger and the suspect vehicle or showing any individuals wielding firearms.

The detective acknowledged that while video captured individuals getting into a blue Dodge Charger from a white vehicle, the identifying plate was not visible, and the Charger was not seen following the other car to the shooting location.

Sukumar also questioned whether MPD uncovered any communication via Instagram direct messages or text messages between Greene and the suspected shooters on the day of the incident. The detective admitted that, as of now, there was no such evidence but the investigation remains ongoing.

The detective testified earlier that Greene was one of four suspects as he went over the footage gathered from the crime scene, and the evidence obtained from an Instagram search warrant that was conducted on Greene’s account.

In the current hearing the detective reviewed interviews with witnesses from Hertz car rental, where Green worked, and confirmed that one witness described Greene as “not right” but provided no further details about his demeanor. The detective suggested that the witness may have known more information but did not want to get involved in the investigation.

The detective also confirmed that another Hertz employee said Greene bragged about the shooting, but their account was second hand and relayed from another employee who had simply told them to “watch the news.”

On redirect, the prosecution confirmed with the detective that the individual identified as a person of interest in the shooting had communicated with another person of interest, who was in a photo with Greene.

Due to time constraints, the parties were unable to argue for probable cause.

Parties are slated to reconvene March 5.

‘I Can’t Believe I’m Listening to This,’ Says Judge About New Trial Motion in Transgender Sex Worker Shooting

The disposition of a case involving a defendant’s sentencing for shooting a sex worker was delayed after his defense attorney filed a motion for a retrial before DC Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur during a hearing on Feb. 28.

Jerry Tyree, 46, was found guilty of aggravated assault while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, two counts of unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction, attempted unlawful possession of liquid PCP, and attempted unlawful possession of a controlled substance. The charges stemmed from a shooting on the 5900 block of Foote Street, NE on Nov. 29, 2023. One victim, who was a transgender woman and sex worker, sustained injuries to the groin and genitals from the incident.

On Sept. 29, 2024, Sara Kopecki, Tyree’s defense attorney, filed a motion for a new trial based on new evidence following Tyree’s conviction on Sept. 24.

In court, Kopecki argued the prosecutors had a “duty to learn” regarding whether the victim was still participating in prostitution during her testimony – which Kopecki stated should play a role in the decision for a new trial.

According to Kopecki, a week after testifying, the victim filed a police report stating she was threatened while she was on the streets doing sex work.

The prosecution claimed in trial the victim “had a change of life” and was no longer a sex worker, according to Kopecki. She said “But truly after, back to same old stuff.”

The prosecutors asserted the victim’s lifestyle had “nothing to do with the trial” and it was a “ridiculous argument.”

The prosecutor said the victim had a nonprofit job when she testified. However, while she was on the stand and questioned if she was sex working, she answered “No.” The prosecutors claimed this was new information.

Kopecki argued the prosecution should have followed up, but instead “did nothing.”

The prosecutors said they can confirm the victim was not participating in sex work on the day she testified. When Kopecki asked for evidence to support that, the prosecution reasoned she was on the stand and was not performing sex acts.

In response, Judge Arthur said, “I’m gonna need a break. I mean I can’t believe I’m listening to this.” He concluded the prosecution has no factual basis to say affirmatively the victim was not participating in sex work at that time.

Parties are slated to reconvene March 16.

Shooting, Robbery Defendant Facing 57 Counts Pleads Not Guilty

A shooting and robbery defendant charged in a 57 count indictment entered a plea of not guilty for all counts before DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan on Feb. 27.

Rodney Bennett, 19, is charged with endangerment with a firearm, 21 counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, two counts of carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business, two counts of possession of an unregistered firearm, four counts of unauthorized use of a vehicle, five counts of assault with intent to kill while armed, eight counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, three counts of assault with intent to commit robbery while armed, robbery, and two counts of robbery while armed for his alleged involvement in an unlawful discharge of a firearm on a public space at the 600 block of Edgewood St, NE on Aug. 28, 2024 and two armed robberies at the 1300 block of Neal Place, NE on Aug. 28, 2024 and at the 1900 block of 8th Street, NW on Aug. 29, 2024.

According to court documents, Bennett allegedly committed these crimes while on release for another matter.

Bennett is also charged with endangerment of a firearm, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, carrying a pistol without a license outside of a home or place of business, possession of an unregistered firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition, and unauthorized use of a vehicle for an incident that occurred on Aug. 26, 2024, but the incident location is unknown.

Michael Madden, Bennett’s defense attorney, alerted Judge Ryan of Bennett’s intent to plead not guilty to all charges and to petition the court for his release due to his age and large amount of community support.

Judge Ryan responded by stating that Bennett has an “astounding” number of indictment charges, and there are no release conditions that would ensure the safety of the community.

Parties are slated to reconvene on April 4.

Defendant Accepts Guilty Plea in Mass Shooting

A mass shooting defendant accepted a plea deal extended by prosecutors before DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman on Feb. 28.

Jason Dyer, 27, was originally 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, and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction for his involvement in a non-fatal shooting that injured four people, including Dyer, on April 7, 2024, at the intersection of Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue and Elmira Street, SW.

Dyer’s attorney, Matthew Davies, alerted the court of the deal requiring him to plead guilty to assault with intent to kill while armed in exchange for the prosecution’s not seeking an indictment. While Dyer had time to speak to his attorney prior to pleading guilty all those involved noted his was a surprisingly quick decision.

Through the deal, parties agreed to a sentence of 12 years of incarceration, payment to the Victims of Violent Crime Fund (VVCF), and registration as a gun offender. Dyer will remain in custody, pending his sentencing.

Parties are slated to reconvene on May 2.

Woman Receives Suspended Sentence For Fatal Shooting Role

DC Superior Court Judge Marisa Demeo imposed a suspended sentence on Feb. 28 for a woman connected to a fatal shooting.

Brianca Phillips, 27, was originally charged with conspiracy, first-degree murder while armed, and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for her alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 32-year-old Terrance Allen on the 3000 block of Stanton Road, SE on Jan. 18, 2021.

Phillips was previously a co-defendant with Delonta Stevenson, 29, and Vorreze Thomas, 26, but her case was severed from theirs in May 2023. Stevenson and Thomas were later found guilty of first-degree murder, among other charges.

According to the prosecution’s evidence, Phillips was the one to alert Stevenson and Thomas through a phone call that Allen was at the location murder location.

On Dec. 13, 2024, Phillips accepted a deal from the prosecution that required her to plead guilty to conspiracy to commit assault with significant bodily injury in exchange for a dismissal of all other charges. Through the deal, parties agreed to a suspended sentence with probation.

During sentencing on Feb. 28, Lisbeth Sapirstein, Phillips’ attorney, shared that Phillips didn’t want to return to court because it was not a lifestyle she wanted her son experience. According to Sapirstein, Phillips was ready to accept responsibility for having made the life-changing call during the incident that led to the death of Allen.

Sapirstein requested that she be sentenced under the Youth Rehabilitation Act (YRA), which allows for a young defendant’s conviction to be sealed if they successfully complete all sentencing requirements, and sentenced toward the lower end of the scale as she’d proven she was capable of remaining on probation.

Judge Demeo imposed a 12 month sentence, all suspended, for the charge, and ordered Phillips to serve one year of probation under the YRA. All other charges were disposed of as part of the plea agreement.

No further dates were set.

‘It’s Fairly Miraculous No One Was Killed,’ Says Judge, Who Won’t Release Shooting Defendant

DC Superior Court Judge Robert Hildum denied Nathaniel Washington‘s request on March 3 to be released from DC Jail with GPS monitoring after he waived his right to a preliminary hearing.

Washington, 20, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting on Feb. 7 on the 500 block of Division Avenue, NE. No injuries were reported from the incident.

Alvin Thomas, Jr., Washington’s attorney, asked Judge Hildum to release Washington due to his youth and the support offered by his mother, who was present at the hearing. Thomas told the court Washington has only one prior conviction.

Opposing Washington’s release, the prosecutor played surveillance camera footage of two suspects shooting at a vehicle that briefly stopped on the street. Court documents state that police found a bullet hole in the rear bumper of the vehicle and a mark from a bullet on the roof. According to arrest documents, the victim couldn’t identify any reason for the attack.

“This was an assault by two individuals on a stranger who happened to be passing through the neighborhood,” the prosecutor said. He told the court 15 shell casings were found on the street, and they were of two different types, indicating both suspects fired their guns.

The prosecutor said he had strong evidence identifying Washington as one of the shooters. He displayed surveillance video footage of an individual identified as Washington at a BP gas station shortly before the incident. According to the prosecutor, continuous video footage connected that individual to the shooting, and Washington’s parole officer identified him from the footage.

The prosecutor told the court that police found three firearms under the sofa where Washington sleeps when they executed a search warrant in Maryland. Two of the firearms have been preliminarily linked to shell casings from the shooting.

“The nature of the charges is very serious: discharging firearms, shooting multiple times at a vehicle–it’s fairly miraculous no one was killed,” said Judge Hildum as he denied Washington’s request for release.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on March 18.

Judge Prohibits Infanticide Defendant from Contacting Her Children

The prosecution requested DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park toughen a no-contact order with the surviving children of a defendant accused of murdering her baby on Feb. 28.

Faneshia Scott, 38, is charged with seven counts of first-degree cruelty to children and two counts of first-degree murder while the victim was especially vulnerable due to age, for her alleged involvement in the death of her 16-month-old, Rhythm Fields, on the 5400 block of C Street, SE. Fields’s lifeless body was found inside Scott’s apartment on March 21, 2017.

The exact circumstances surrounding Rhythm’s death are unknown. However, according to court documents, authorities were called to the scene after concerns were raised about the baby’s well-being. Scott has been on release since Oct. 26, 2018.

At the hearing, the prosecution asserted that Scott had violated her order, having contact with her older children despite not having the custodian’s consent and supervision. Furthermore, according to the custodian, Scott discussed the case with the kids, saying, “The baby died by choking on a grape.” According to the prosecution, this is Scott’s second time violating an order relating to her children.

The prosecution asked that the Judge amend the order so Scott cannot have any contact with her children at all, no matter the circumstances.

Scott admitted to violating the order, and the defense requested that she at least be able to have virtual contact with her kids.

The Judge did not grant this, issuing a stay-away order prohibiting all contact between Scott and her kids.

Parties are slated to reconvene on April 11.

Judge Delays Trial Due to Missing Homicide Witness

DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park delayed a jury trial on March 3 by two days after granting the prosecution’s request for help looking for a material witness.

Nyjell Outler, 22, is charged with first-degree murder while armed, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and assault with a dangerous weapon. Outler allegedly shot and killed Demetrius Johnson, 21, on March 20, 2025, on the unit block of Madison Street, NE, at a gender reveal party.

The prosecution requested that the court grant additional time to find a witness to make their case. Defense attorneys Gemma Stevens and Thomas Key objected to the continuance, stating this case is very old, and claimed the issue should have been addressed at a trial readiness hearing in the fall.

In response, Judge Park said this was not the first time the prosecution asked for help looking for a material witness, stating: “Pushing to Wednesday is not unreasonable.”

Judge Park granted continuance and issued a bench warrant for the witness.

Judge Park later reviewed a defense motion to exclude video evidence from a Ring camera and a liquor store camera. The defense argued the footage was irrelevant, as it allegedly showed the defendant minutes after the incident, outside the crime scene, then at a local liquor store.

The prosecution contended that due to the severity of the crime, it is relevant to show for identification purposes.

Judge Park agreed with the prosecution, stating he “cannot imagine a world where they are not relevant,” and denied the defense’s motion to exclude video evidence.

Trial is slated to resume on March 5.