Defense Says Homicide Evidence Misleading, Wants Case Dismissed

DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park heard arguments on a defense motion to dismiss the case against a homicide defendant case on April 15.

Joshua Allen, 36, is charged with premeditated first-degree murder while armed, assault with intent to kill while armed, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business, and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior crime of violence.

The charges stem from Allen’s alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 28-year-old Delonte Johnson on the 4600 block of Hillside Road, SE on June, 11, 2021. There was one surviving victim who sustained gunshot wounds.

Judge Park addressed the defense’s motion to dismiss Allen’s indictment charges, filed on Feb. 13.

Sara Kopecki, Allen’s attorney, wants the indictment dismissed because the grand jury was reportedly given misleading evidence regarding the identification of the shooter. In the motion, the defense added that a draft of the prosecution’s evidence for trial presented an incorrect timeline of events and that the prosecution knew about their mistake.

The prosecution called a Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) homicide who explained his testimony to the grand jury on Dec. 30, 2022. The detective said he constructed a timeline by reviewing surveillance footage from multiple locations, including the shooting scene and the area where the suspect vehicle crashed.

The detective acknowledged that the video timestamps did not align with real time and were approximated based on other evidence. He testified that the suspect vehicle was seen near the crime scene before the shooting and later crashed at Ridge and Bowen Roads, SE. After, the detective said the suspect fled on foot, running along Alabama Avenue and Chaplin Street, SE and through an alleyway.

On cross-examination, Kopecki asked whether the detective reviewed any surveillance footage from the investigation to prepare for his grand jury testimony. The detective said he reviewed some of the footage, but not all of it.

Kopecki also questioned the detective about the arrest warrant for Allen he wrote on Nov. 9, 2021, his handling of surveillance videos, including his testimony on video timestamps, and how he constructed the timeline. The detective said he relied on timestamps to organize the footage chronologically.

The detective acknowledged he did not have a description of the suspect when initially canvassing for video. Kopecki then presented multiple videos and pointed out inconsistencies in the suspect’s appearance. In one video, the suspect wore a white hoodie and grey pants while holding an object. In another, the suspect had a larger build with dreads, wearing a white tank top and dark jeans, with nothing in his hands.

“There were multiple descriptions given” of the suspect from officers and witnesses, the detective said.

Kopecki presented the detective with two still photos from the videos side by side, one of the suspect on the 4400 block of Alabama Avenue, SE and the other Kopecki claimed was Allen in an alleyway. She asked him if the two individuals in the photos were the same person, and the detective said yes.

Kopecki argued they were not the same person because the suspect ran toward the community center and would have passed the alley on the way, but there was no video showing him entering the alley. The detective responded that the suspect could have entered the alley first and then proceeded to the community center.

The detective testified that it’s common for surveillance footage to only capture portions of a suspect’s movements, and that the absence of video showing the suspect entering the alley does not mean it did not occur.

Despite gaps in the footage and differences in appearance, the detective said there was evidence at the crash scene that led investigators to Allen. There was blood on the car that was swabbed and closely matched Allen’s DNA, said the detective. There was also a phone with messages sent from it that read, “This is Josh Allen,” to numerous numbers.

Before the arguments were presented, Judge Park stated that he would not rule on the motion because he did not have time to review the written arguments that the prosecution had sent the night before.

Parties are slated to reconvene on May 1.

‘I Regret Shooting [Him], I Should’ve Just Let Him Run,’ Homicide Defendant Says at Sentencing

DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan sentenced a homicide defendant to 14 years of imprisonment after hearing multiple impact statements from both sides on April 10.

Monteze Morton, 36, pleaded guilty on Feb. 5 to voluntary manslaughter while armed for his involvement in the fatal shooting of 29-year-old Dimitrious Brown on March 22, 2024 on the 2800 block of Hartford Street, SE.

“He’s gone, they’re putting him in a body bag right now,” Brown’s sister told Judge Ryan that was the phone call she received the day Brown died. She tracked his location that day, and when she saw his phone was at the morgue, she knew he was truly gone.

“The pain my family and I have felt will never be summed up by a sentence,” Brown’s sister said and questioned “How do you tell your nephew his dad is gone?”

Brown’s sister read a statement from the mother of Brown’s children. The letter wrote “ I will never forget that day. The last time I spoke to him he told me he was on his way to pick up our son. My son was waiting for his dad, he is still waiting.”

Brown’s mother gave a statement, she told Judge Ryan that her world crashed that day. She had to break the news to her mother who was dying from cancer in the hospital.

She said her mother was calling out for “Tre” and she had to tell her mom that “Tre’s not here anymore, but if you want to go be with him, I’ll be okay.” She received a call later that night from the hospital telling her her mom passed away.

“I had to bury two people,” continued Brown’s mother in her statement.

“I lost a part of me that day, and today I am here for the sentencing for the murderer of my son,” his mother told Judge Ryan.

Prosecutors stated that this was “a senseless act of gun violence,” and that Morton had two prior convictions that should have prevented him from having a gun, “yet he had one anyway.”

“We are asking for 14 years because Morton is a dangerous individual,” prosecutors told Judge Ryan.

Thomas Key, Morton’s attorney, requested Judge Ryan to sentence him to 10-and-a-half years and that they understand that “nothing the court does can bring back Mr. Brown.”

Key presented evidence that Brown was the initial aggressor, and that he was armed that day. Key claimed that after Brown got in a fight with his girlfriend he approached Morton and “stuck his hand in his pants, making Morton aware that he had a gun.”

According to Key, Morton pulled out his gun and pointed it at Brown as Brown began to run away when Morton fired his shots.

“Morton admitted that it was unreasonable to shoot him and he should have just let him run away,” continued Key. “The fact that Brown was the initial aggressor makes a difference in this sentencing.”

Morton told Brown’s mother, “Ms. Brown I apologize, I regret shooting Mr. Brown, I should’ve just let him run.”

Judge Ryan sentenced Morton to 14 years imprisonment and five years supervised release. He will get credit for time served and must register as a gun offender.

No further dates were scheduled.

‘She’s Fired Your Honor,’ Stabbing Defendant Says About His Attorney

A stabbing defendant told DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz he fired his attorneys and would like to represent himself on April 9.

Corey Bridges, 31, is charged with assault with intent to kill while armed, assault with significant bodily injury while armed, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, threatening to kidnap or injure a person, assault with a dangerous weapon, and tampering with physical evidence. These charges stem from his alleged involvement in a non-fatal stabbing that occurred on the 1400 block of Morse Street, NE on June 7, 2025. The victim sustained multiple lacerations to the neck.

According to court documents, Bridges was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder, bipolar type, unspecified schizophrenia spectrum, and another psychotic disorder. The assessment means that Bridges is delusional and subject to extreme mood swings.

However, in a Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) evaluation performed on April 7, he reported having no auditory or visual hallucinations due to his medications.

Neither party received the DBH evaluation until the morning of the hearing. Bridges’ attorney, Molly Bunke, asked Judge Kravitz for more time to confer with Bridges’ doctor.

Judge Kravitz, who admitted he did not have much time to review the document, agreed to the extension. He noted based on what he read, Bridges was found to be “most likely [mentally] competent” but malingering. In other words, fabricating symptoms to mitigate a sentence.

Bridges said that his lawyers would not be coming back to discuss his competency because he told Judge Kravitz, “She’s fired your honor,” referring to Bunke. Bridges then requested to represent himself.

In response, Judge Kravitz said he must make a determination regarding Bridges’ competency before deciding whether Bridges could represent himself. In order to stand trial a defendant must have the mental ability to understand the charges against him and help his lawyer.

Bridges left the courtroom angry, repeating, “they’re fired,” referring to Bunke and his other attorney, Theodore Shaw.

Judge Karvitz assured him they would discuss his desire for self-representation when the parties reconvene on April 30.

Conspiracy, Carjacking Suspect Wants Return to DC Under Speedy Trial Provision

A murder and conspiracy suspect held elsewhere argued to return to DC for trial before DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park in a hearing on April 15.

Tyjuan McNeal, 29, and Niquan Odumn, 24, are charged with conspiracy for their alleged involvement in criminal activity against a rival crew, “Choppa City,” between Feb. 1, 2023, and Jan. 16, 2026.

McNeal is charged with premeditated first-degree murder and two counts of felony murder while armed, among other charges, for his alleged involvement in the disappearance of 25-year-old Chyna Crawford, who was last seen on the 4000 block of South Capitol Street, NW, on Oct. 23, 2023. Prosecutors said Crawford went missing on Oct. 24, 2023.

McNeal and Odumn are additionally charged with tampering with physical evidence for their alleged involvement in incidents that occurred citywide between May and December 2023.

McNeal is charged with his alleged involvement in a series of carjackings that occurred across Northwest DC between Oct. 15 and Nov. 1, 2023.

McNeal is also charged for his alleged involvement in a series of armed robberies that occurred citywide between Feb. 15, 2023 and April 6, 2023.

Both McNeal and Odumn face charges for their alleged involvement in a robbery on the 1000 block of 15th Street, NW on May 22, 2023.

Both McNeal and Odumn are also charged with unauthorized use of a motor vehicle and other charges for events that occurred between May and June 2023.

Lashawn Washington, 34, Bjarni Cooper, 31, and Deionta Person, 28, are also charged with conspiracy, among other charges, for their alleged involvement in related incidents.

Andrew Ain, McNeal’s attorney, stated that his client wished to assert his rights under the Interstate Agreement on Detainers (IAD). The IAD allows defendants serving a sentence in a different jurisdiction where currently charged to go to trial within 180 days of the prosecution’s receiving the defendant’s transfer request. It also allows the defendant to be temporarily held in the jurisdiction where they’re charged.

In practice, an IAD puts pressure on the prosecution to bring a case to trial in a timely manner and avoid moving defendants from one jurisdiction to another.

According to court documents, the prosecution stated that McNeal did not qualify for the IAD because the defense didn’t file a detainer requesting to hold him in DC. As a result, the prosecution argued McNeal could not assert his rights. They also stated that even if Judge Park found that McNeal did qualify, there was good cause for the trial date to remain on Feb. 1, 2028, not sooner.

The prosecution also said it was unclear whether DC Jail had space to hold McNeal. Ain requested a nominal bond to hold his client at the jail to maintain access to his client, but the prosecution opposed it, arguing McNeal would need to waive his IAD rights to remain in DC.

Judge Park suggested revisiting the issue to consider a partial waiver, and the parties agreed to return on April 21.

Wole Falodun, Odumn’s attorney, said his client wished to waive his rights under the IAD and remain in custody in DC.

Judge Park explained to Odumn what it would mean to waive his IAD right and asked whether he still wished to do so. Odumn agreed to waive his right to a speedy trial in order to be held at the DC Jail.

Judge Park set a bond so Odumn would remain held in DC, but warned Odumn that if the DC Jail could not house him, he would be returned to the jurisdiction where he was previously held.

All parties are slated to reconvene on Oct. 16.

Judge Won’t Release Suspect Pleading Guilty in Domestic Stabbing

A domestic violence stabbing defendant accepted a plea deal and was denied release before DC Superior Court Judge Deborah Israel on April 10.

Marquise Bailey, 27, was originally charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for his involvement in a domestic violence related stabbing on the 5200 block of Karl Place, NE on Nov. 30, 2025.

According to the prosecution, if the case had proceeded to trial they would have proved that Bailey lunged at his romantic partner with a knife, causing a laceration to her hands. The victim’s family then chased Bailey out of the apartment. On Dec. 5, 2025, officers executed an arrest warrant. A relative of Bailey’s informed officers that Bailey had a firearm in his bedroom, where they recovered a gun without a serial number.

Bailey accepted a deal from prosecutors that required him to plead guilty to attempted assault with a dangerous weapon and unlawful possession of an unregistered firearm, with the prosecution agreeing not to pursue an indictment with additional charges. Judge Israel accepted the plea and informed Bailey that he must register as a gun offender.

Bailey’s attorney, Sara Kopecki, requested his release to home confinement, citing his limited criminal history and his transparency about the offense. She stated that Bailey’s mother supports him and that he would comply with a stay-away order from the victim and her residence.

The prosecution opposed the request, arguing that the violent nature of the offense and the lack of safe release conditions warranted continued detention. The prosecution stated that no conditions could reasonably ensure the safety of the victim or the community.

Judge Israel denied the request for release, stating that there was not enough information to support Bailey’s release.

Parties are slated to reconvene on July 10 for sentencing.

Judge Sentences Stabbing Defendant to Probation

DC Superior Court Judge Deborah Israel sentenced a defendant who stabbed a security guard to probation instead of prison on April 10.

Warren Rainner, 31, pleaded guilty on Jan. 30 to assault with a dangerous weapon for his involvement in a stabbing on July 5, 2025 at Central Union Mission, a Christian shelter and poverty relief organization, on the unit block of Massachusetts Avenue, NW that left one victim injured.

At sentencing, the victim, a security guard for the organization, said he woke up early that morning feeling stressed and emphasized that he was simply working his job that day.

The victim informed Judge Israel that he was working when he placed an armband on Rainner. Rainner left and returned approximately 30 minutes later, stating he did not like how the armband was applied and threw it at the security guard. Rainier then pulled out a knife and lunged at him. He attempted to back away but was cut on the back of his elbow. The prosecution noted that the incident was captured on surveillance footage.

The prosecution requested 32 months of imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release, along with GPS monitoring and a stay-away order. The prosecution argued that Rainner demonstrated escalating anger and impulse control issues and emphasized the seriousness of the offense.

Rainner’s attorney, Brandon Burrell, pointed to Rainner’s acceptance of responsibility in the plea deal and personal circumstances, including job loss and homelessness. Rainner apologized, stating he is “not a bad person” and does not intend to harm others. He said he is learning from his mistakes and would not re-offend.

Judge Israel acknowledged Rainner’s forthrightness, but also recognized the seriousness of the offense. She sentenced Rainner to 18 months of imprisonment, all suspended, in favor of 12 months of probation. The conditions of his probation include stay-away orders, mental health treatment, cognitive therapy, and assistance with employment and housing.

No further dates were set.

Finding Probable Cause, Judge Says ‘Stronger Evidence Comes Out of [Homicide Defendant’s] Mouth’

DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan ruled that there was probable cause and reason to hold a homicide defendant during a preliminary hearing on April 9.

Javonte Robinson, 28, is charged with first-degree murder while armed for his alleged involvement in a June 2, 2025 shooting that fatally injured 33-year-old Kalil Brown on the 1200 block of Raum Street, NE. Brown sustained three gunshot wounds to the back and one to the back of the neck.

The prosecution called the lead detective from the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) who testified that surveillance footage recovered from the area surrounding the crime scene depicts a suspect vehicle reportedly registered to Robinson’s significant other parking on a neighboring street.

According to court documents, during a police interview Robinson reportedly identified himself as the individual shown leaving the vehicle. In the footage described by court documents, Robinson reportedly heads towards the crime scene and runs back to the vehicle after several gunshots are heard.

On cross-examination, Robinson’s attorney, Carrie Weletz, questioned the detective about the credibility of evidence he received from witnesses during the investigation, pointing out that one witness said they saw multiple people running away from the crime scene.

Weletz also questioned the credibility of a witness listed in court documents who reported that Robinson told them, “I took care of him. He’s not gonna shoot at nobody no more.” When Weletz raised reports of this witness being “evasive,” the detective attributed this to a proven history of domestic violence.

“I’m sorry, are you a psychologist.” Weletz questioned?

According to the prosecution, Robinson’s alleged motive might have stemmed from issues related to an ID card taken and a reported altercation with Brown earlier in the day. They cited a “variety of evidence” including cell-phone location data, text messages, surveillance footage, and personal statements that support probable cause. They added that Brown’s manner of death was “inconsistent with self-defense.”

In response, Weletz said that there is only a “loose thread of evidence” and that “nothing forensically” links Robinson to the crime.

Referencing court documents in his ruling for probable cause, Judge Ryan said that Robinson admitted his involvement in an altercation with Brown earlier in the day near Raum Street during which shots were allegedly fired. Judge Ryan said Robinson also reportedly admitted to returning to the area afterward to buy drugs and that he changed his clothes to wear a ski mask and hoodie because “you gotta look the part.”

“It’s an odd case because so much of the stronger evidence comes out of Robinson’s mouth,” Judge Ryan said.

Weletz requested that Robinson be released on terms of high-security surveillance or home detention with permission to attend work.

After reviewing Robinson’s criminal history, Judge Ryan found that “significant failures on probation,” previous bench warrants, and Judge Ryan’s prioritization of community safety warranted Robinson jailed.

“He’s had some significant failures in that regard,” Ryan said of Robinson’s probation history.

Parties are slated to reconvene on July 20 for a status hearing.

Mass Stabbing Defendant Pleads Not Guilty to 24 Charges at Arraignment

A defendant who allegedly stabbed six individuals was arraigned on 24 counts before DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt on April 9.

Kevin Andrade, 35, is charged with four counts of assault with intent to kill while armed, two counts of assault with intent to kill a senior citizen while armed, four counts of aggravated assault while armed, two counts of aggravated assault against a senior citizen while armed, four counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon against a senior citizen, four counts of assault with significant bodily injury, and two counts of assault with significant bodily injury to a senior citizen.

These charges stem from his alleged involvement in stabbing six victims on the 1200 block of Meigs Place NE, on April 3, 2025.

All of these charges were allegedly committed despite Andrade’s two prior felony convictions.

The court arraigned Andrade on the charges against him and his attorney, Steven Kiersh, asserted that his client would be entering a plea of not guilty and move towards trial.

Following the arraignment, Judge Brandt said she received a mental competency report from the Department of Behavioral Health (DBH). The doctor who completed the exam concluded that Andrade was competent to stand trial. To stand trial, the defendant must understand the charges against him and be able to aid his attorney in his defense.

Kiersh noted that his own expert was conducting a competency examination on Andrade. The defense expert requested all of Andrade’s medical records in order to get definitive results.

Prosecutors stated that they read an initial report and noticed signs of malingering, which is the exaggeration of psychological symptoms in order to gain something.

Judge Brandt is going to keep Andrade at Saint Elizabeths Hospital as a psychiatric patient until Kiersh’s expert finalizes his findings.

Judge Brandt vacated the trial on Aug. 3 to allow time for the defense expert to conduct their evaluation.

Parties are set to reconvene on May 29.

‘My Memory is Shot,’ Homicide Defendant’s Wife Testifies About Suspect Vehicle

The prosecution called a homicide defendant’s wife to testify during a trial before DC Superior Court Judge Dayna Dayson on April 9.

Jamil Whitley, 38, is charged with first-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction greater than one year for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 32-year-old Kevin Redd on the 4700 block of Jay Street, NE on June 11, 2020.

In her testimony, the prosecution noted inconsistencies with her prior statements before a grand jury. Whitley’s wife stated that she owned two cars in June 2020, a LXI Chrysler Sebring and a van. The prosecution asked her what year the Chrysler was and she said it was 1992. According to prosecutors, Whitley allegedly drove the Chrysler during the shooting.

The prosecution confirmed Whitley’s wife’s answer before noting that, in the grand jury, she testified that the Chrysler was a 1997, not a 1992.

“I would never lie about the car I had,” Whitley’s wife stated, “whoever you had taking notes was wrong.”

The prosecution then showed Whitley’s wife records from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), showing a 1997 LXI Chrysler Sebring registered under her name.

When prosecutors asked whether Whitley’s wife still owned the car, she said she didn’t because it broke down, but she “couldn’t recall” when. After reviewing her grand jury testimony, she remembered the vehicle broke down in July 2020 on the highway.

Prosecutors asked how she got home after it broke down and she stated that she called a friend who picked her up. However during her grand jury testimony, Whitley’s wife stated her friend called her an Uber. When asked about how long she’d known her friend, she stated that they met when she was in her early 20s. In the grand jury, she said they’d met in junior high or middle school.

“My memory is shot,” Whitley’s wife said, “you could tell me something yesterday and I’m gonna forget it.”

Prosecutors asked her if Whitley had a phone in June 2020, to which she said yes. They asked her if he’d ever changed his phone number and she said she didn’t know. According to her grand jury testimony, Whitley changed his phone number around May 2021.

On cross-examination, Whitley’s attorney, Madalyn Harvey asked her if it was upsetting for her to see Whitley in the courtroom.

“Yes, it is,” Whitley’s wife replied.

The prosecution also called a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agent from the Cellular Analysis Survey Team (CAST) to the stand.

The agent explained that CAST is a special unit in the FBI that analyzes cellphone records and allows agents to determine a person’s approximate location using cell towers.

The prosecution showed the agent a map from the report he created using T-Mobile phone records from Whitley’s phone. Four points were plotted on the map: the crime scene at Jay Street, Whitley’s residence at the time of the incident, a Shell gas station, and Ebony Inn Restaurant and Lounge in Maryland.

The prosecution asked the agent to explain the points on the map. The agent testified that between 1:49 a. m. and 1:51 a. m. on the day of the shooting, Whitley’s phone pinged off a cell tower that “likely” provided coverage to the crime scene. He also testified that after 1:51 a. m., Whitley’s phone did not ping off of any other cell towers that would place him near the crime scene.

In cross-examination, James Brockway, Whitley’s other attorney, asked whether the system the FBI uses to measure the distance of the cell signal from the cellular tower is absolutely accurate. Brockway displayed a map with outlined wedges displaying the distance. The agent admitted the cell phone pinged could be outside the wedge, meaning the estimation was not precise.

The prosecution called a forensics firearms examiner as an expert witness. The expert examined a fired bullet and fragments and provided the prosecution with a list of possible guns that match the evidence. The expert determined the gun in the case was likely a .38 special revolver, from a common manufacturer such as Armscor, Colt, or EIG.

The expert explained that a semi-automatic handgun ejects a shell while a revolver needs the casing manually removed by the user. The prosecution then presented for the jury images of several possible guns, all .38 special snub nose revolvers. Snub nose revolvers refer to a revolver with a short barrel, according to the expert, and are popular for their compactness and concealability.

Brockway asked the expert if he could determine, with certainty, the specific gun used in the case from the fired bullet and fragments. The expert couldn’t, but said he could find a gun relative to the actua murder weapon. Brockway then presented several more guns identified by the expert as .38 special revolvers with longer barrels from Armscor, Colt, and EIG.

Additionally, Brockway asked the expert to explain to the jury a jacketed bullet, specifically a full metal jacketed (FMJ) bullet. The expert said FMJ’s are lead bullets in a copper shell typically found in semi-automatic weapons.

When the expert was excused, the parties argued about the use of Whitley’s data search history, Harvey said the use invites prejudice, an unfair disadvantage for Whitley. The prosecution disagreed, claiming that Whitley’s search history is pertinent to the case considering he was searching specifically for windshield auto-repairs.

Judge Dayson said she will rule on the issue at a later date.

Parties are slated to reconvene on April 13.

Defendant Linked by DNA to 1999 Fatal Stabbing and Rape Pleads Not Guilty

A cold case defendant who allegedly raped and fatally stabbed a woman in 1999 was arraigned and indicted before DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt in a hearing on April 9.

George Mudd, 71, is charged with first-degree felony murder and first-degree premeditated murder. Both charges are classified as especially heinous, atrocious, or cruel while committing or attempting to commit a robbery since thestabbing was committed while committing rape or a sexual offense.

These charges stem from his alleged involvement in the rape and fatal stabbing of 24-year-old Susan Cvengros on May 21, 1999 on the 400 block of F Street, NE.

According to court documents, Mudd allegedly entered Cvengros’ apartment, raped and stabbed her 13 times in the neck and torso. His DNA was allegedly found on her vagina and nightgown.

The court arraigned Mudd on the two charges. Terrence Austin, Mudd’s attorney, asserted that he would be entering a plea of not guilty and emphasized Mudd’s right to a speedy trial.

Parties are slated to reconvene on April 29.

Awakened by Gunshots, Witnesses Describe Murder Victim in the Alley

Two witnesses testified in a homicide trial before DC Superior Court Judge Danya Dayson on April 8 about awakening to gunshots coming from the alley behind their houses.

Jamil Whitley, 38, is charged with first-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business, and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 32-year-old Kevin Redd on June 11, 2020, at the rear end of the alley on the 4700 block of Jay Street, NE.

According to court documents, in the early morning hours, Whitley and Redd were at a Shell gas station, at the 4300 block of Nannie Helen Burroughs Avenue, NE. Prosecutors claim Whitley later followed Redd in a white vehicle to a nearby alley, where he allegedly fatally shot him.

In court, prosecutors called two witnesses who lived near the crime scene. Both of their residences had windows overlooking the alley where Redd was killed.

The first witness testified about gunshots waking her up. She detailed how after waiting in place to ensure her safety, she looked out a window facing the alley and saw a man laying on the ground. She testified that he was moving but not standing and she did not recognize him. While calling the authorities, she reported hearing a car driving away.

On a map provided by the prosecution, the witness marked her residence and the alley where she saw Redd.

On cross-examination, Whitley’s attorney, James Brockway, confirmed that the person did not see anyone else in the alley nor what happened before the gunshots, and did not look out the window until after the shooting. Brockway also asked if she saw a car driving away or could identify it and she responded no to both questions.

The second witness recounted a similar story. She detailed hearing gunshots that were “closer than usual” and heard “stuff going on” behind her house. After hearing the gunshots, she testified that she turned off of the lights and looked out the window that overlooked the alley. She heard tires screeching and “saw a young man laying on the ground,” which prompted her to call 911.

On cross-examination, the civilian confirmed to Brockway that she did not see when the man was shot, anyone else in the alley, or a car in the alley.

Prosecutors played audio recordings of both civilians’ 911 calls.

Prosecutors also called an analyst from the Department of Forensic Sciences (DFS) who responded to the crime scene. The official testified that she walked through the alley with a detective, documenting and photographing potential evidence.

The prosecution presented a series of photographs taken at the scene, many of which were marked with evidence placards. The forensic scientist identified several items in the images, including suspected blood, shattered glass, a plastic cup, a Styrofoam cup, and a single purple slipper located in the alley.

“We photographed everything in the area,” the forensic scientist said.

The analyst also testified about clothing she received from Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officers, including a blue-and-white shirt, blue jeans with a black belt, black boxers, socks, and multicolored tennis shoes. Photographs displayed in court appeared to show suspected blood on the shirt.

During cross-examination, Whitley’s other attorney, Madalyn Harvey, questioned the thoroughness of the evidence collection. Harvey pointed out that not all broken glass from the scene was collected.

“It would have been almost impossible to get every piece of glass,” the forensic scientist responded.

Harvey also asked whether the forensic specialist observed marijuana bags in the pockets of the jeans. She said she had not, referencing her notes and stating that any remaining contents were documented as “miscellaneous items.”

The forensic scientist also told Harvey that MPD officers instructed her what items to collect and she did not know the reasons for their decisions not to collect certain items.

Prosecutors called a second forensic scientist with DFS who completed a re-canvas of the crime scene the next day. The prosecutors asked him about several pictures of the alley. He identified each of them as a photo he took and explained to the jury the location of each in relation to the location of the shooting.

One photo showed two cigarette butts which he explained he captured as evidence because they “appeared fresh” and were dry compared to the trees and ground in the same area.

He also detailed his interaction with one individual during his investigation, who was smoking a cigarette off of his back porch facing the alley. The forensic scientist said he asked the civilian if he frequently disposed of his cigarette butts in the alley to which the civilian responded “sometimes.” The forensic scientist stated that he then decided not to conduct further processing of the other cigarette butts.

Harvey raised during cross-examination an issue with the forensic scientist’s credibility, citing reprimands he received from DFS about failure to follow procedure. In a letter addressed to the forensic scientist about a different crime, DFS stated that his “actions compromised the integrity of the investigation.”

In response, the forensic scientist said that he was “falsely reprimanded” and that his “HR and management are trying to make [him] look bad and scapegoating” him.

Harvey continued to ask the forensic scientist about the relevant investigation, confirming that he only took two cigarette butts into evidence even though there were many more in the same location.

The forensic scientist said that he did not take them because they were “wet and dirty” and “of no probative value.” Harvey concluded her questioning by noting, “you decided that.”

Prosecutors also called a witness specializing in security technology. The witness testified that he installed both interior and exterior surveillance cameras at a nearby business, identified in court as “Cannabis.” Using a map, the witness indicated the direction of the cameras, including one that faced Jay Street, where the white car that prosecutors allege Whitley drove as he followed Redd to the alley way was caught on that camera.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on April 9.

Homicide Defendant Self-Reports Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt and parties discovered that a homicide defendant diagnosed himself with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in a hearing on April 9.

Spiro Stafilatos, 38, is charged with second-degree murder, aggravated assault knowingly grave risk while armed, and fleeing law enforcement for his alleged involvement in a Dec. 30, 2022 hit-and-run incident. The accident occurred on the 1400 block of New York Avenue, NW, and resulted in the death of 31-year-old Shuyu Sui and severe injury to another individual.

At the last hearing, the defense expressed their intent to call an expert in trial to testify about Stafilatos’ PTSD, a condition that can trigger frightening flashbacks.

Stafilatos’ attorney, Brian McDaniel, told Judge Brandt that he communicated with a few individuals over the weekend that had missing periods. McDaniel talked to the social worker, who he believed diagnosed Stafilatos with PTSD in 2021.

McDaniel said that the social worker told him that she did not diagnose Stafilatos with PTSD. She met with Stafilatos and asked him what he was going through, and he reported that he suffered from PTSD and other mental illnesses. Therefore at the end of their session, she wrote down PTSD in his report.

McDaniel suggested that Judge Brandt order another psychiatrist to examine Stafilatos before trial.

Prosecutors had no objection to a new psychiatrist, but requested that the person testify as an expert witness after Stafilatos’ testimony.

The prosecution argued PTSD cannot be relevant unless Stafilatos shares his testimony about what happened in the Montgomery County Jail that resulted in his alleged PTSD and caused him to “flee the traffic stop in 2022.”

“It’s Stafilatos’ story to share, not the psychiatrists,” prosecutors furthered their point.

Judge Brandt agreed and said that in order to have relevant testimony from the psychiatrist, Stafilatos would need to testify first. She also told McDaniel and Stafilatos that it is his choice whether to testify or not.

McDaniel said as of now, Stafilatos planned to testify.

Parties agreed for the psychiatrist to examine Stafilatos the following week. They also agreed to have their old expert witnesses be deemed as fact of witness testimony, instead of expert.

Parties are slated to reconvene for jury selection on April 27.

Jury Reaches Partial Verdict in Metro Bus Driver Stabbing Case

A jury reached a partial verdict in a three-year-old stabbing case before DC Superior Court Judge Robert Salerno on April 8.

Stephanie Fawbush, 51, was originally charged with two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, with an aggravating factor of the victim being a Metro transit officer or station manager and threat to kidnap or injure a person for her involvement in a stabbing at the 900 block of 17th Street, NW on Aug. 14, 2023. One victim sustained a stab wound to the arm and Fawbush allegedly assaulted another victim in the incident.

After some three days of deliberations, a jury found Fawbush guilty on one count of assault with a dangerous weapon against the stabbing victim and not guilty on threat to kidnap or injure a person.

The jury could not come to a unanimous decision on the second count of assault with a dangerous weapon against the assault victim. It is unclear whether the prosecution will refile on the undecided charge.

The maximum sentence for assault with a dangerous weapon is 10 years in prison.

Sentencing is scheduled for June 12.

Judge Commends Stabbing Defendant on Probation, Asks For Improvement

DC Superior Court Judge Carmen McLean acknowledged a stabbing defendant’s progress in complying with probation orders, yet asked for continued improvement on April 9.

Marshal Baxster, 40, was sentenced on March 14, 2025, to six months incarceration, suspended in favor of 18 months of probation for attempted assault with a dangerous weapon. The charge stemmed from his involvement in a non-fatal stabbing that took place on the 3000 block of R Street, NW, on Nov. 29, 2024. The victim sustained a deep laceration to their wrist.

Baxster’s probation officer from the Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency (CSOSA) described his most recent report as “mixed,” citing progress in some areas but noting several instances of non-compliance with his GPS monitor.

According to the officer, Baxster reports for employment and takes advantage of mental health services. However, he has not regularly attended classes or properly managed his GPS monitor, which disconnected multiple times.

Baxster’s defense attorney, Shawn Sukumar, stated Baxster was “putting in a significant amount of effort” to comply with his probation conditions. Additionally, Sukumar noted that Baxster has difficulty charging his GPS monitor where he lives.

Judge McLean acknowledged Baxster’s progress, calling his continued use of mental health resources “fantastic.” However, Judge McLean told Baxster he needed to “continue to improve” in other areas.

Parties are set to reconvene on June 10.

Judge Denies Request to Release Teen Carjacking Defendant

DC Superior Court Judge Renee Raymond denied a teen carjacking defendant’s request for release after he waived his preliminary hearing of the evidence against him on April 8.

Darryl Gladney, 18, is charged with armed carjacking, armed robbery, and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence. These charges stemmed from his alleged involvement in a carjacking on the 3500 block of 6th Street, SE on May 4, 2025.

Gladney is charged under Title 16, which allows prosecutors to try juveniles as adults for certain serious offenses.

According to court documents, Gladney allegedly lured the victims by saying he wanted to purchase a watch the victim listed for sale on Instagram. Gladney and another suspect reportedly assaulted the victim, forced him into his vehicle at gunpoint, drove to Maryland, and threatened him before fleeing with his car.

At the hearing, Charles Haskell, Gladney’s attorney, said his client waived his right to a preliminary hearing, which Judge Raymond accepted.

Haskell then asked Judge Raymond to release Gladney on home confinement, a curfew, or GPS monitoring. He argued that Gladney is only 18 years old and has no criminal history. “This is a shocking event for everyone,” said Haskell.

According to Haskell, Gladney is a senior in high school, where he is a soccer and football athlete. He stated that Gladney plans to enroll into the military and then pursue higher education.

The prosecution argued that Gladney should not be released because of the severity of the case. They claimed Gladney orchestrated the carjacking and was aware of his intent to rob the victim.

Judge Raymond determined there were no conditions of release that could ensure the safety of the community and ordered Gladney remain held.

Parties are slated to reconvene on April 29.

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