‘Many People in DC Have Been Hit by Stray Bullets,’ Says Prosecutor in Shooting Case

DC Superior Court Judge Hildum found probable cause for unlawful discharge of a firearm and released the defendant on personal recognizance on July 16.

Barry Fox, 72, is charged with unlawful discharge of a firearm for his alleged involvement in a shooting that occurred on July 12, on the 2500 block of Brentwood Road, NE. No injuries were reported.

According to court documents, the incident allegedly occurred at Fox’s home. Three rounds of ammunition were reportedly fired inside the home from a Colt Lawman 357. The shots were reported to 911 by two separate neighbors.

The prosecution called a responding Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officer to testify regarding his involvement in the case.

The officer established that he responded to two phone calls alleging three gun shots were fired from the general area of the incident address. The officer responded to the scene with other members from MPD.

“He didn’t want us to come in and he also didn’t want to come out,” the officer said.

The officer explained that upon arrival, Fox denied law enforcement entry into the unit. MPD went to Fox’s wife, who was across the street, and the officer said she granted them permission to enter the home out of concern for Fox. According to the officer, Fox’s wife told officers that Fox had been drinking while on medication for a recent hip surgery. The officer confirmed he was not present for this conversation.

While searching the home, the officer said he found a firearm on the couch, next to where Fox was sitting. The officer explained that there were three spent shell casings and three live rounds still in the firearm.

During cross-examination, Fox’s attorney, James Brockway, emphasized that no witness has identified Fox as the shooter, or specified his home to be the location the shots were fired from.

Brockway confirmed with the officer that he was not present for the 911 calls that reported the shots, or any other conversations had with witnesses.

In addition, Brockway asked the officer about the state of the firearm when he recovered it. The officer said it was not warm to the touch.

When asked whether MPD received any other reports of gunshots that night, or if there were frequent gunshot reports in the neighborhood, the officer said he did not know.

“There is not probable cause for three principal reasons,” said Brockway.

Brockway alleged that there is no evidence that these shots were fired without a permit from the Chief of Police, which is a legal requirement of unlawful discharge. In addition, he said there is no evidence shots were fired from a specific location or identification of Fox as the shooter.

“A reasonable person who obtained a permit to fire a firearm, when contacted by the police, would say so,” said the prosecution.

The prosecutor argued for probable cause, explaining that Fox was found with a firearm next to him right after 911 calls were made. They also said there is no evidence of a lawful permit from the Chief of Police and Fox never indicated that he acted in self-defense.

“I think what we have here is circumstantial evidence… we know from the laws that circumstantial evidence is good evidence,” said Judge Hildum and found probable cause.

Brockway urged Judge Holdim to release Fox, citing multiple letters of support from the community, Fox’s current gun licenses in Virginia, Maryland, and DC, and a history of employment as a driver for Metro Transit and cellphone technician. Brockway highlighted Fox’s limited criminal history, a 1983 minor drug charge.

“It is a tragic reality that many people in DC have been hit by stray bullets,” said the prosecution.

The prosecution asked for a continued hold, highlighting the seriousness of the offense. They asked Judge Hildum to restrict Fox’s access to firearms if he grants release.

Judge Hildum released Fox on personal recognizance, emphasizing Fox’s good standing with the community and that the gun was registered at the time of the incident.

The judge prohibited Fox from possessing any form of firearm or ammunition. Other conditions of his release include the completion of substance abuse and mental health assessments with the Pretrial Services Agency (PSA) and biweekly PSA meetings.

Parties are slated to reconvene Sept. 8.

Shooting Case Dismissed After it Was Transferred to District Court

The prosecution asked DC Superior Court Judge Heide Herrmann to dismiss a shooting case on July 14 because the defendant’s case was moved to US District Court.

John Bradham, 54, was charged with unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction, carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business, possession of an unregistered firearm, and unlawful possession of ammunition for his alleged involvement in a July 10 shooting at 300 block of 8th Street, SE. No injuries were reported.

According to court documents, Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) received a call from a witness who heard a “large boom” outside of her residence and saw a “muzzle flash” on security camera footage. Documents say that the video showed someone, who was later allegedly identified as Bradham, retrieving a gun from his backpack, firing shots in an alley, then walking out.

The prosecution asked for Braham’s DC Superior Court case to be dismissed. Bradham’s case was moved to the US District Court and he was not present for the hearing.

Bradham’s attorney, Joseph Fay, had no objection to the request to dismiss the case. Judge Herrmann dismissed the case after the agreement from both parties.

Bradham was also scheduled to have a status review hearing related to a 2002 first-degree murder case he was sentenced for in 2004 and had his sentence reduced in 2005. According to Judge Herrmann and the prosecution, that hearing was scheduled in case the prosecution was asking for a hold in the shooting case. Court records reflect no changes in Bradham’s murder case since 2010.

No further hearings were scheduled.

Judge Allows Unrecorded ID of Traffic Shooting Defendant

DC Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur ruled on July 16 that an unrecorded identification of a road rage defendant was admissible in trial but would be a “ripe area of cross-examination” for the defense.

Marcus Reavenell, 48, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction greater than one year, unlawful discharge of a firearm, reckless driving, and destruction of property less than $1,000 . These charges stem from Reavenell’s alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting following a road rage incident at the intersection of 58th and Foote Streets, NE on May 14, 2025. No injuries were reported.

In court, Reavenell’s attorneys, Michael Bruckheim and Margaret Dawson, argued in favor of suppressing photo identification of their client. On May 8, they filed a motion to suppress identification based on the prosecution’s reported failure to preserve evidence. They also asked for the case to be dismissed on these grounds.

Bruckheim and Dawson claim the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) detectives who acquired Reavenell’s identification from his coworkers failed to videotape this process.

The MPD detectives reportedly showed a still photograph and a short video clip from the shooting to Reavenell’s coworkers. Bruckheim noted that two of the three coworkers interviewed could not identify the person displayed, whereas one identified Reavenell only based on the video clip.

“All we have is what the detectives say happened,” Bruckheim said. “We don’t have any way to check them on that.”

Bruckheim argued that because detectives approached Reavenell’s three coworkers with a preconceived notion of who was in the photo, there might have been an “element of suggestivity” during their questioning.

In addition, detectives failed to use a photo array, which Bruckheim called an “unusual” manner of suspect identification.

The prosecution rebutted Bruckheim’s arguments, stating that they could not produce what does not exist. In addition, they claimed that it is typical for MPD detectives not to wear body-worn cameras.

“This is an issue that happens regularly,” prosecutors said.

Judge Arthur ruled against the defense motion, stating that the lack of video evidence was not grounds to suppress the identification. However, he noted that it hurts the MPD detectives’ credibility as witnesses and is a “ripe area of cross-examination.” He also declined to dismiss the case.

The parties then selected a jury for Reavenell’s trial.

Parties are scheduled to present opening statements on July 20.

Judge Orders Bench Warrant for Stabbing Defendant on Probation

DC Superior Court Judge Jennifer Di Toro ordered a bench warrant for a stabbing defendant on July 16 after she missed her hearing and was non-compliant on probation.

Jasmine Armwood, 34, was sentenced on June 8 to one year in prison, all suspended, in favor of one year of probation for assault with significant bodily injury and possession of a prohibited weapon for her involvement in a stabbing that occurred on the 3800 block of Minnesota Avenue, NE on Nov. 29, 2025. The victim sustained a stab wound to her midsection.

If Armwood is not compliant with her probation requirements, Judge Di Toro can require her to serve her prison sentence.

In her probation show cause hearing, Armwood was not present, and a probation officer from the Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency (CSOSA) noted that she had not reported to or been in contact with probation services.

According to court records, the first notice of Armwood’s non-compliance was filed on July 6.

Prosecutors asked for a bench warrant to be issued for Armwood, andJudge Di Toro agreed.

Parties are expected to reconvene when US Marshals execute the warrant.

Judge Won’t Release Stabbing Defendant Who Reportedly Told Police She Should Have Murdered Victim

DC Superior Court Judge Heide Hermann denied release for a defendant accused of stabbing her partner of 30 years in the head after she waived her preliminary hearing on July 16.

Patricia Barron, 64, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for her alleged involvement in a stabbing on July 13, at the 3100 block of Buena Vista Terrace, SE.

According to court documents, the couple was reportedly arguing about Barron not liking her partner’s friends. The victim allegedly approached Barron holding a chair when Barron struck the victim with a knife in the head.

Barron waived her right to a preliminary hearing that would determine if probable cause exists for the charge against her.

Judge Hermann then heard from both the defense and prosecution whether Barron should be released. Barron’s attorney, Sara Kopecki, noted that the case is an assault with a dangerous weapon, between two romantically involved individuals.

Kopecki asked for Barron’s release, noting she would check in with the Pretrial Service Agency (PSA) by phone because of her walking condition.

The prosecution argued Barron should remain held, citing their concern about the level of violence in the case. They also asked to keep the stay-away order in place from both the location and the victim.

Judge Hermann explained that the offense wasn’t a fright assault, but a physical assault with a knife that was recovered. Judge Hermann added that Barron allegedly admitted to the stabbing and said she wished she had killed her partner.

According to court documents, Barron told a Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) detective that she accidentally struck her partner with a knife, but also stated that she should have murdered him.

As a result, Judge Hermann denied Barron’s release.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Aug. 21.

Gun Possession Defendant Sentenced After Murder Acquittal

DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park sentenced a gun possession defendant to 30 months in prison on July 17 after discussion between parties over the severity of his offense.

Christopher Tyler, 48, was convicted on March 9 of unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction greater than a year. The charge stemmed from an incident on July 7, 2023 on the 4100 block of Ames Street, SE.

Tyler was acquitted of first-degree premeditated murder, first-degree burglary, attempt to commit a robbery while armed, and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 34-year-old Nolan Edwards.

At Tyler’s sentencing, the prosecutor attempted to increase Tyler’s offense severity score, which would increase the sentencing guidelines for the crime from 18-to-36 months to 30-to-54 months in prison. To support the request, he argued that Tyler had a criminal history, specifically a prior conviction of unlawful possession of a firearm.

Kevann Gardner, Tyler’s attorney, criticized the prosecution’s short notice. Gardner argued Tyler proceeded to trial with the homicide-related charges in the indictment, and might have decided differently if he knew he was facing greater charges after the murder acquittal.

Judge Park decided to continue with Tyler’s sentencing under the guideline of 18-to-36 months, noting that the prosecution must give at least two-weeks notice for any proposed amendments for sentencing.

The prosecutor promptly asked for “the highest of the guidelines,” 36 months in prison, briefly noting apparent inconsistencies in the context of the offense, such as a text message allegedly implicating Tyler.

Gardner emphasized the jury’s acquittal of Tyler’s murder charge and its relation to his possession conviction. He argued that “jurors expressly told [parties] the gun conviction was based on the text message, not what they should have been considering,” and for that Tyler should not have been convicted.

“A sentence of 18 months is sufficient,” Gardner concluded, briefly mentioning Tyler’s childhood history of “abuse, instability, fear,” and how he grew to become “a caregiver for many people.”

The prosecutor called Gardner’s argument “inappropriate” given the jury’s verdict According to the prosecutor, the jury’s admission that the text message was their primary evidence was neither on the record, nor reported to the prosecution or Judge Park.

The prosecutor told Judge Park he had “more than enough” in front of him to support a sentence at the top of the guidelines.

Judge Park, taking into account the seriousness of the offense and Tyler’s prior conviction, said he didn’t believe 36 months was warranted, nor did he think 18 months was sufficient.

As a result, Tyler was sentenced to 30 months in prison with a 12 month mandatory minimum, followed by three years of supervised release. In addition, Tyler must register as a gun offender in DC and pay $100 to the Victims of Violent Crimes Fund.

Judge Park also recommended that Tyler seek mental health treatment while on supervised release.

No further dates were set.

62-Year-Old Defendant Pleads Not Guilty to Bias-Related Shooting

A shooting defendant pleaded not guilty to all indictment charges before DC Superior Court Judge Danya Dayson on July 15.

Matthew Murphy, 62, is charged with two counts of assault with intent to kill while armed in a bias-related hate crime, two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon in a bias-related hate crime, aggravated assault while armed in a bias-related hate crime, five counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence or dangerous crime, unlawful possession of a firearm, carrying a pistol without a license outside home or place of business, and unlawful possession of ammunition. These charges stem from his alleged involvement in a shooting that injured a child on Oct. 27, 2025, on the 4900 block of Ayers Place, SE, on the front steps of Saint Luke’s Roman Catholic Church.

According to the indictment, Murphy allegedly committed the shooting based on the victims’ actual or perceived sexual orientation.

The court arraigned Murphy on the charges against him. Diana Yu, his attorney, entered a not guilty plea on Murphy’s behalf, invoking his constitutional rights to a speedy trial and evidence in the case. Yu requested a status hearing before scheduling a trial since she was recently assigned to Murphy’s case.

The prosecution agreed to keep the plea offer open until the next hearing to allow Yu more time to review the case.

Parties are set to reconvene on Aug. 21.

Judge Allows 17-Year-Old Fatal Shooting Defendant to Attend School

DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan modified release conditions for a teen homicide defendant to allow him to attend school at a hearing before on July 15.

Keyonte Johnson, 17, is charged with first-degree premeditated while armed for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 20-year-old Roy Bennett Jr. The incident occurred on Dec. 5, 2025, at the 300 block of Morse Street, NE. Bennett sustained seven gunshot wounds.

As a result of the serious nature of the offense, prosecutors are charging Johnson as an adult under Title 16.

Due to his medical conditions, Johnson is currently on release with GPS supervision and is subject to 24-hour home confinement. A representative from the Pretrial Services Agency (PSA) said that Johnson has been in compliance with the conditions of his release.

Johnson’s attorney, Jesse Winograd, asked the court to ease his conditions of confinement so that he could attend school.

An attorney from the School Justice Project (SJP) was present and alerted the court that she has been working on school enrollment and attendance for Johnson.

Prosecutors requested that Johnson enroll in a virtual program, saying that the violent nature of the crime gives the court “reason to be concerned” about his interactions with other students.

Judge Ryan ultimately ruled in favor of the defense, arguing that school is “extremely important,” especially considering Johnson’s age.

“I’m giving you an opportunity to succeed,” said Judge Ryan.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene for Johnson’s arraignment on Oct. 1.

Alleged Meat Thief Pleads Not Guilty to Fatal Stabbing at Arraignment

A defendant pleaded not guilty to a second-degree murder charge at an arraignment before DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman on June 16.

Christopher Taylor, 37, is charged with second-degree murder while armed for allegedly stabbing and killing 31-year-old Michael Alanzo Jackson on the 1600 block of V Street, SE, on April 10, 2025. Jackson sustained 5 stab wounds.

As of the arraignment, prosecutors had not yet offered Taylor a plea deal, but said they expected to do so by early September.

Taylor’s attorney, Gemma Stevens said she would wait to receive the plea deal and consider other “open matters” in the case before possibly setting a trial date.

The court formally arraigned Taylor on the charge against him. Stevens pleaded not guilty on Taylor’s behalf, asserted his rights to a speedy trial, and requested all evidence in the case.

According to court documents, witnesses in the general area of the crime told Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) investigators they recognized the suspect as someone who reportedly sold meat stolen from grocery stores.

MPD investigators allegedly verified Taylor’s identity by comparing CCTV footage near the crime scene to booking photos of people recently arrested for stolen meat offenses.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Sept. 4 to discuss the supposed plea deal.

Defendant Pleads Guilty to Shooting Outside McDonald’s

A shooting defendant accepted a plea offer before DC Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur on July 15.

Serrel Wagoner, 22, was originally charged with aggravated assault knowingly while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his involvement in a non-fatal shooting outside of a McDonald’s on March 9 on the 3900 block of Minnesota Avenue, NE. The victim sustained a gunshot wound to his thigh.

At the hearing, Wagoner accepted a plea offer that required him to plead guilty to aggravated assault knowingly and carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business. In exchange, the prosecutors agreed to dismiss the initial charges against Wagoner and not seek a grand jury indictment with greater or additional charges. Wagoner will be required to register as a gun offender for two years after his release.

Prosecutors said that if the case had proceeded to trial, they would have proven beyond a reasonable doubt that Wagoner rode a rented Lime E-bike to the McDonald’s, looking for a specific person.

They continued that Wagoner approached the restaurant on foot, fired multiple shots toward the entrance, striking a bystander in the upper right thigh, then fled on the E-bike. Investigators later linked Wagoner to the E-bike through rental records and GPS data, which provided his home address.

The prosecution added that CCTV video footage was also recovered from the crime scene and shown to Wagoner’s mother. When shown a photo of her son, she responded, “Yeah, that’s sure him,” and she recognized the clothing he wore.

Wagoner is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 25.

Judge Denies Release for Stabbing Defendant, Citing His Prior Homicide Conviction

DC Superior Court Judge Heide Herrmann denied a stabbing defendant’s request for release on July 16 after he waived his right to a preliminary hearing.

Thomas Slaughter, 68, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for allegedly stabbing a woman on July 3 in the 4200 block of 4th Street, SE.

According to court documents, Slaughter and the victim reportedly fought over personal belongings. Slaughter then allegedly punched and kicked her before reportedly stabbing her in the right side of the head with a knife, causing a deep laceration.

Slaughter’s attorney, Tammy Thom, said her client wanted to waive his right to a preliminary hearing, allowing the case to proceed without determining if the evidence proved probable cause against Slaughter.

Thom then asked Judge Herrmann to release Slaughter pending trial, arguing he owns a home, has strong ties to the community, helps care for his elderly mother, and suffers from schizophrenia. Thom told the court Slaughter was not receiving the proper medication while incarcerated and suggested conditions such as 24-hour home confinement could protect the community.

The prosecution opposed release, citing the seriousness of the alleged charges and Slaughter’s prior second-degree murder conviction from 1989, for which prosecutors said he recently completed serving his sentence.

Judge Herrmann denied the request for release, citing that it would be irresponsible of her to overlook that his conviction from 1989, although a long time ago, was for murder. She also asked Thom to complete paperwork so jail officials could address Slaughter’s medication needs.

The parties also told the court they are discussing a plea offer but did not mention the terms.

Parties are set to reconvene on Aug. 5.

Defense Attorney Claims Prosecution’s ‘Obligations Have Not Been Met’ in Domestic Stabbing Case

DC Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur gave prosecutors two days to respond to a defense motion seeking a domestic stabbing defendant’s release at a hearing on July 15.

Paula Washington, 44, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for her alleged involvement in a domestic stabbing on June 10 on the 2300 block of 4th Street, NE.

According to court documents, Washington allegedly slashed her boyfriend with a pocket knife during an argument, reportedly saying, “I’m going to send you to meet the Lord.” The two had reportedly been drinking, court documents state, and the confrontation caused lacerations to his chest and left arm.

At the hearing, Washington’s attorney, James Brockway, argued that the defense’s motion for release should be expedited due to her serious medical conditions, presenting concerns that she is not receiving adequate care while incarcerated at the DC Jail.

“Every day she is in there, we worry that her condition worsens,” said Brockway.

Brockway argued to Judge Arthur that prosecutors have handled Washington’s case in a “dubious” manner.

“Basic discovery obligations have not been met in this case,” argued Brockway.

The motion for release review was submitted on July 13, following the defense’s attainment of body-worn camera footage from the incident. Footage that the defense had been requesting since June 19, according to court documents.

According to Brockway, along with lackluster communication between counsel, the assigned prosecutor has been absent from the previous two hearings. Different stand-in prosecutors have been present at both hearings, further delaying the proceedings.

“[The assigned prosecutor] knew there was a court date,” said Brockway, referring to the prosecution’s absence.

Judge Arthur reminded Brockway that the approval of motions takes time.

“Did you let [the prosecutors] know you were filing a motion?” Judge Arthur responded.

Judge Arthur said he could not rule on the motion without hearing from the assigned prosecutor and granted the prosecution until July 17 to file a written response. The judge said it was “unfair to rely solely on a [prosecutor] who is not ready to argue the facts of the case.”

The next hearing is scheduled for July 22.

Prosecutors Claim Fatal Shooting Stemmed From Domestic ‘Cycle of Violence’

Both parties presented their closing arguments for a domestic violence related fatal shooting case before DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan on July 15.

Wonell Jones Jr., 38, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and two counts of unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction for a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 33-year-old Audora Williams on July 19, 2022, at 2900 block of Knox Place, SE.

Medical examiners stated in their records that Williams sustained 52 gunshot wounds or defects. Williams and Jones shared two children.

According to prosecutors, Williams got custody of their two shared children a few days before her death.

The prosecution began their closing arguments by clicking a pen to illustrate the number of gunshots they claim Jones fired. They added that Williams was “stuck in a corner” and her blood was “staining the walls.”

Prosecutors highlighted that two different guns were found at the scene that were emptied of ammunition. They claimed that the guns stopped firing because “they couldn’t” anymore.

In May 2022, Williams filed a Temporary Protective Order (TPO) and a Civil Protective Order (CPO) against Jones, according to prosecutors. Jones was ordered to stay away and not contact her, said prosecutors. After Williams asked for help by filing the TPO and CPO, Jones reportedly broke into her apartment.

Jones “does not care about what the law says he should or should not do,” prosecutors said.

Prosecutors classified their relationship as a “cycle of violence.” They urged the jury to consider how the situation would have ended if Williams had called the police when Jones came to her apartment the day of her death.

The prosecution played surveillance videos from outside Williams’ apartment building in addition to the stairwell and hallway inside the building. The prosecution alleged that this footage shows that Jones was the only possible suspect because he is recorded entering Williams’ apartment on the day of the incident. Prosecutors emphasized Williams and Jones were the only two adults in the apartment, with eight children.

In order to prove Jones committed first-degree murder while armed, prosecutors had to prove that there was premeditation. According to prosecutors, “each and every time he pulled that trigger he made that choice.”

Jones’ attorney, Steven Kiersh, asserted that Jones “is not guilty of first-degree murder.” He emphasized that the lesser-included charges of second-degree murder and manslaughter in the jury instructions contain “really important distinctions.”

Kiersh emphasized that the surveillance footage displayed Jones walking into the apartment with Williams’ child and groceries. He asked the jury if this showed that “he was planning this murder” and asserted “there is no premeditation.”

According to Kiersh, Williams and Jones lived together for at least two weeks prior to the murder, so he was not a danger to her. Kiersh highlighted that Williams’ room was messy, and implied that “something happened in that room.”

Kiersh stated that no witness reported seeing Jones with a gun. However, Kirsh noted that Williams’ son testified in the trial that he saw Jones holding something that appeared to be a gun. In 2024, Kiersh emphasized that the son testified before a grand jury, and did not mention seeing Jones with a gun.

Kiersh stated, “He was impeached by his contradiction.”

Additionally, Kiersh asserted that the prior arguments between Williams and Jones were not violent unless infidelity was mentioned. He characterized the argument as “a heat of passion.”

Both parties agreed that this was a tragic event, but Kiersh reminded the jury that the case is not to be decided based on emotions.

Kiersh clarified that, if the jury did find that Jones fired the shots, “it’s manslaughter,” not murder.

During rebuttal, prosecutors clarified that Jones had “plenty of time to develop…that decision to kill” Williams. They pointed out that, if the jury accepts the defense’s argument, they are “left with the conclusion that Ms. Williams shot herself over 20 times.”

The prosecution stated that there was no evidence that Williams cheated on Jones. They also claimed that “words, no matter how offensive, are not adequate provocation” for murder.

Prosecutors asserted that convicting Jones of manslaughter would allow him an “excuse” for his crime.

After closings, Kiersh filed a motion for judgement of acquittal, which Judge Ryan denied. Kiersh also filed for a mistrial, characterizing the prosecutor’s claim that a conviction of manslaughter would be excusing him as “utterly incorrect.”

Judge Ryan said he would address that during jury instructions, but Kiersh said that was not an “adequate” remedy.

Judge Ryan said there was not a “basis” to grant the motion for a mistrial.

The jurors then began deliberations.

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

Judge Releases Vehicular Homicide Defendant After ‘Barely’ Finding Probable Cause

DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman released a vehicular homicide defendant on July 14 after finding probable cause for second-degree murder while armed.

Tiana Smith, 43, is charged with second-degree murder while armed for her alleged involvement in a motor vehicle accident that resulted in the death of 22-year-old Samuel Kesselman at the intersection of New Jersey Ave and P Street, NW, on Oct. 20, 2022. Kesselman succumbed to his injuries on March 27, 2023.

According to surveillance footage, the incident occurred when Smith allegedly arrived at a stop light with a line of cars, swerved around the line into a left turn only lane, continued to go straight, and reportedly collided with Kesselman’s scooter.

Prosecutors called the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) lead detective, who took over the case after the previous detective retired. The detective established that the suspect vehicle was going 39 miles per hour (mph) at its fastest, and the area’s speed limit is 25 mph.

Prosecutors presented ring and nest camera footage that showed multiple angles of the incident in which the vehicle can be seen going around the line of cars and into the left lane, followed by the sound of a crash.

Judge Edelman questioned why it took MPD three years to arrest Smith, as the warrant for Smith’s arrest was last updated in 2023. The detective said he did not know. Judge Edelman characterized this as an “unsatisfactory” answer.

During cross-examination, Smith’s Attorney, Christen Philips, used the arrest warrant to question the detective’s identification of Smith as the driver.

Philips explained that her client’s arrest stemmed from two unrecorded phone calls that allegedly occurred between the former detective and Smith. The current detective confirmed that he did not discuss these calls or the case with the former detective, explaining that “he is very reclusive when it comes to MPD.”

According to court documents, Smith allegedly told the former detective “I didn’t even know what I hit.” and “I keep wondering how he is doing.” Court documents state that Smith also reportedly told the detective that she wanted to come in and “give a confession.”

According to Philips, Smith has never sat down for a recorded interview with the MPD or admitted to driving the car that night.

Philips also highlighted that no witness identified Smith as the driver of the vehicle at the time of the incident. She added that there are no photographs or videos of Smith driving the car that night.

According to Philips, Smith reported her car stolen shortly after the incident. The detective, however, said he had no evidence supporting that claim.

The car was found on Oct. 27, 2022, at Howard Road and Bryan Place, SE, which Philips asserted is not where Smith lives. She also claimed that no witnesses or Smith have any connection to that location.

One witness told detectives that the car had been there for more than a week, but they were not sure how it got there.

In addition, Philips asked the detective about the DNA evidence found in Smith’s car. DNA evidence of three people, including one man, was recovered on the steering wheel, and four people, including one man, from the center console.

The detective also established that on the night of the incident, the light at the intersection had just turned green, so the suspect vehicle was traveling toward a green light. Additionally, he said he was unaware of the mental state of the driver that night.

Philips argued that this case is “at best… is negligence,” not second-degree murder.

A negligent homicide charge is the unintentional killing of another person due to unjustifiable risks or a gross deviation from a reasonable standard of care. Philips argued that in this case, there was no motive to kill or harm the victim. She highlighted that the car was driving in a legal lane and direction, toward a green light.

“Had she simply waited her turn, this wouldn’t have happened,” prosecutors said.

The prosecutor urged Judge Edelman to find probable cause for second-degree murder while armed, alleging that Smith acted in conscious disregard for human life, which does not require intent.

Judge Edelman found probable cause for second-degree murder while armed based on Smith’s ownership of the car, cellphone data that shows Smith’s phone pinged a nearby tower the night of the incident, and the statements she allegedly made to the MPD. However, he also said this is “barely enough evidence” to support second-degree murder while armed.

The parties also discussed Smith’s detention. Philips confirmed that Smith is 43 and has no prior convictions.

The prosecutor asked that Smith be held. She alleged that Smith made a fake police report about the stolen car, involved a family member to cover up the events, and went to a public forum acting like a “victim of injustice.” According to the prosecution, all of these things reflect poorly on Smith’s character and justify her continued detention.

Philips requested Smith’s release, citing her support from the community and the three years between the incident and her arrest. Philips referenced six letters of support submitted to the court from community members vouching for Smith’s character. She also emphasized the prosecution has had all the information since 2023 and did not seek an arrest until now. During that time, Smith did not engage in any criminal activity.

Judge Edelman released Smith on the condition that she does not operate any motor vehicles. The judge explained that the prosecution had not established clear and convincing evidence that Smith should be held, especially since they have not charged or detained Smith for the past three years.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Nov. 20.

Case Acquitted: Defense in Stabbing Case Wants Testimony From Jailhouse Informant Thrown Out

Editor’s note: Rayvon Slye was acquitted of all charges by a jury on August 5, 2026.

Defense attorneys argued to exclude the testimony of a witness who allegedly received a confession from a fatal stabbing defendant in the jail before DC Superior Court Judge Danya Dayson on July 14.

Rayvon Slye, 34, is charged with second-degree murder while armed for his alleged involvement in a March 7, 2023 stabbing that fatally injured 30-year-old Andrea Bond on the 1000 block of D Street, NE. Bond sustained one stab wound to her left chest.

According to court documents, Bond and Slye were dating at the time of her death and shared one infant child, whom they were not in custody of at the time.

Prior to the hearing, Slye’s attorney, Kevin Mosley, filed a motion to either exclude the testimony of an incarcerated informant or to continue the trial date to allow time for the defense to investigate him. According to Mosley’s motion, the informant claimed that Slye made incriminating statements to him while they were both held at the DC Jail.

During the hearing, Mosley argued that the prosecution had not provided “basic information” and adequate notice regarding the agreement the witness entered into with prosecutors and what his testimony will contain. In his motion, Mosley argued that “as time passes, the defense’s ability to pursue leads turns cold, memories fade, and Mr. Slye’s ability to proactively shape his defense is impacted.”

“This is not supposed to be trial by ambush,” Mosley said in court.

Mosley also took issue with prosecutors disclosing the existence of the jailhouse informant to the defense two years after Slye allegedly confessed to him, describing the prosecution’s conduct as “preposterous” and “glaringly just nonsense.” Prosecutors said they did not notify Mosley because at the time they were not committed to calling the informant as a witness.

The parties were confused about the jailhouse informant’s intentions when he reported Slye’s alleged confession. If the informant was actively seeking out confessions from fellow inmates to gain benefits in his pending fentanyl distribution case, Mosley argued that he would be an agent on behalf of the case’s investigators. Therefore, Mosley said the law would require the witness to read Slye his rights before they spoke.

In addition, Mosely and Slye’s other attorney, Kayla Wyatt, filed a motion to suppress statements Slye made to police the day of the incident, arguing in their written motion that his statements were involuntary and the manner of questioning violated Slye’s Miranda rights.

To address the motion, the prosecution called a Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) responding officer. After she learned that Slye was the last person to see Bond alive, she said she ordered Slye to remain at the incident location. She affirmed that her actions followed MPD protocol and she would have been reprimanded if she had done otherwise.

A current MPD sergeant, who worked then as a responding detective at the incident location, also testified that he followed protocol when questioning Slye on the scene. On cross-examination, Mosley alleged that the sergeant had treated Slye as a “captive audience” and had not ever explicitly told him that he had the right to leave. The detective said that had Slye tried to leave, he would not have stopped him.

Another MPD homicide detective was brought before the court to testify to an interview she conducted with Slye the day of Bond’s death.

The detective told the court that Slye arrived at the homicide department and waited for an hour in the interview room while detectives were busy. She noted that Slye was not under arrest nor was he a suspect in the case yet. Slye was not read his rights before being asked questions, said the detective.

Prosecutors displayed the footage of the interview, where Slye said that he and Bond “were together all the time.”

On cross-examination, Mosley asked the detective if Slye had been evasive in any way during their interview. The detective said, “he was being cooperative.” She did not believe he was under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

While Slye was waiting to be interviewed, Mosley noted that the door was closed. The detective said that sometimes detectives will leave the door open so interviewees can get air, but for Slye she did not.

Mosley asked if Slye “wasn’t free to leave.” The detective said that he was not being held, but he would have had to ask a detective to leave.

On re-direct examination, prosecutors asked why the door was closed for Slye. The detective said that it was “human nature. We forget.”

After testimony, Mosley said that he had no arguments to add to the original motion he filed. Prosecutors reminded the court that at the time of the interview, no MPD officials accused Slye as a suspect in the case. Judge Dayson decided to defer her ruling on the motion until a later hearing.

The parties also discussed the prosecution’s notice of intent to introduce evidence of eight prior “bad acts” involving Slye, spanning from February 2022 to February 2023. According to the prosecution’s motion, Slye and Bond reportedly had a history of domestic disputes and both had prior arrests for allegedly injuring one another.

Mosley and Wyatt objected to the inclusion of all eight acts based on their relevance, probative value, and prejudice. Judge Dayson refrained from making a final ruling on the motion.

Parties are slated to reconvene on July 15.

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