Judge Rules Murder Defendant Can’t Represent Himself in Trial

DC Superior Court Judge Marisa Demeo denied a murder defendant’s request to represent himself in an Oct. 4 hearing. Walker asked to replace his current counsel, Stephen LoGerfo, due to communication issues.

Matthew Walker, 25, is charged with first-degree murder while armed for allegedly stabbing 23-year-old Jamal Green-Lee on the 100 block of Michigan Avenue, NE on April 29, 2019. Green-Lee died on Nov. 4, 2020, due to his injuries.

Walker was also found guilty in a non-jury trial of 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, and possession of a large capacity ammunition feeding device for his involvement in the fatal shooting of David Remen, 32, on Feb. 14, 2019, on the 1700 block Hamlin Street, NE.

One other individual sustained severe injuries in the attack.

During the hearing, Judge Demeo questioned Walker’s ability to represent himself probing his understanding of trial procedure.

During questioning Walker made it clear that his intentions were to trade information on both of his cases for a global plea offer from the prosecution. He said the information was written down on a document he didn’t bring to court.

The prosecution made it clear, however, that while they were interested in the information, no plea offer was on the table.

Walker did not want LoGerfo to see this document before he could hand it to the prosecution, citing the conflict as part of their communication issues.

Judge Demeo concluded Walker would not be able to represent himself effectively stating that the “basic tasks of performing the functions of representing himself are not there.”

Parties are scheduled to reconvene Oct. 16, when Walker will allow LoGerfo to review the document.

Judge Continues Stabbing Defendant’s Probation, Despite Re-Arrest

On Oct. 4, DC Superior Court Judge Raffinan allowed a stabbing defendant to remain on probation as he awaits further proceedings in a Maryland case.

On Feb. 3, 2017, Antoine Cartwright, 33, pleaded guilty to assault with intent to kill while armed and first-degree burglary for his involvement in a stabbing that injured an individual on Sept. 8, 2016, on the 700 block of Brandywine Street SE.

Cartwright’s probation was extended following his re-arrest for an unspecified matter in Maryland to which he pleaded guilty. The probation officer requested revocation of probation with the consent of the prosecution, but with opposition from the defense.

The probation officer said the nature of Cartwright’s crimes and his re-arrest in Maryland brings up compliance issues. The prosecution said that early termination of probation should not be an option.

Defense attorney Lee Goebes said Cartwright has been in compliance with his probation terms despite his Maryland arrest, and has completed domestic violence courses.

Judge Raffinan ruled to continue Cartwright’s probation and emphasized he has less than a year left but if he has any more infractions his probation will be terminated.

There were no new court dates set.

Murder Defendant Awaiting Trial Due to Medical Issues

A murder defendant appeared virtually as the parties considered a trial date in relation to his ongoing medical condition in front of DC Superior Court Judge Marisa Demeo on Oct. 4.

Robert Henson, 44, is charged with first-degree murder while armed, robbery while armed, three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a convict, for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of Richard Lee Dudley, 37, on Dec. 10, 2018, on the 2500 block of Elvans Road, SE.

D.C. Witnesses previously reported that Henson had been hospitalized due to a condition stemming from a car accident in December of 2018. It’s unclear if the accident is related to Dudley’s death.

After improving, in March of 2024, Henson’s mental and physical health declined and he became comatose for three weeks with no explanation.

At the hearing the prosecution requested all of Henson’s medical records be disclosed, and to meet with his health specialist in order to figure out a timeline for the trial which was postponed in May.

Henson’s defense attorneys, David Knight and Joseph Yarabough, did not object, but noted that his condition hasn’t improved.

The prosecution alerted the court that they didn’t want to wait indefinitely for Henson’s medical condition to improve, since the case has been ongoing since 2018.

Judge Demeo set a 30-day window to keep the case as a priority.

Parities are set to reconvene Nov. 8.

Defendant Sentenced to 96 Months for Shooting Teen Girlfriend

DC Superior Court Judge Marisa Demeo sentenced a shooting defendant to 96 months in prison for his involvement in the shooting of a 16-year old girl during an Oct. 4 hearing.

On July 19, Deangelo Wooten, 27, pleaded guilty to aggravated assault knowingly while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for shooting his 16-year-old girlfriend on the 3400 block of 13th Street, SE, on Jan. 20. The victim sustained serious injuries.

During the hearing, prosecutors presented graphic images of the victim’s wounds on her forearm and back, documenting her physical injuries after the incident. They sought a prison term of 120 months, pointing out the severity of the crime, citing that the close range shooting occurred in a residential neighborhood, in broad daylight, and amongst witnesses.

The prosecution stated that, weeks later, the victim still did not regain feeling in her arm.

Wooten’s brother appeared in court and extended apologies towards the victim. He alerted the court to Wooten’s troubled childhood and history of mental illness, stating that he was in need of medical assistance.

Wooten’s defense attorney, Todd Baldwin, requested a reduced sentence of 72 months. He argued that rehabilitation was what Wooten required, and that he has been “stable and calm” since receiving treatment.

Baldwin pointed out Wooten didn’t aim at the victim’s face, but rather randomly into the car. He asserted this meant that he never intended to kill the victim.

Expressing regret, Wooten stated to the court, “I take full responsibility for everything I did,” wishing he could take it all back, and that he needed to get his mental health under control.

Judge Demeo alerted the court that she wished to fashion a sentence aimed at rehabilitation. While giving Wooten credit for taking responsibility for his actions and his lengthy criminal history, she imposed a sentence of 96 months for the aggravated assault while armed charge, and 72 months for the possession charge, which will run concurrently. The stay-away order from the victim will remain in effect.

No further dates were set.

Sentence Tempered After Shooting Defendant Asks Judge For ‘a Chance’

A shooting defendant asked DC Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur to “give him a chance,” and Judge Arthur imposed a sentence of 60 months with all but 28 months suspended after strongly considering a sentence of 60 consecutive months on Oct. 4.

On April 8, Amontae McCalvin, 19, pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon and carrying a pistol without a license for his involvement in a shooting incident on Sept. 8, 2023 on the 400 block of Condon Terrace, SE. One individual sustained non-life-threatening injuries.

The prosecution asked that McCalvin be sentenced to 60 months, citing that while he is young, he has previous firearm related convictions.

Prosecutors argued the shooting put the community in danger because it took place in a crowded apartment complex where a victim was hit in the hand and multiple apartments sustained damage.

The prosecution also asked that the defendant be denied the benefits of the Youth Rehabilitation Act (YRA), which seals a young defendant’s conviction if they successfully complete all sentencing requirements.

“Sixty months is outrageous,” said Brandi Harden, McCalvin’s attorney, adding that the pre-sentence report found that McCalvin has undergone a “marked change,” during his detainment.

Harden explained that McCalvin is back in school after dropping out in the eighth grade and has a daughter he loves and cares for. She described McCalvin as “someone who wants to better his life.”

Regarding the prosecution’s request to deny sentencing under the YRA, Harden said that the prosecution was not viewing her client with “humanity,” arguing that the benefits of the YRA are not a gift but are something that is earned.

McCalvin addressed the court, stating, “I understand what I did is wrong.” He expressed remorse for his actions and a desire to be with his children and those that need him.

Judge Arthur sentenced McCalvin to 60 months, with all but 28 months suspended, 18 months of supervised probation, and three years of supervised release under the YRA.

Judge Arthur stated that while McCalvin took accountability for his crimes and pleaded guilty as soon as he could, “One shot is too many” and it was “by grace” that no one died.

Judge Arthur asked McCalvin to look around the courtroom and consider that his actions a year ago could have killed anyone in this courtroom, including those he cares about.

No future dates were set.

Shooting Defendant Given a Second Chance After Three Weeks in Jail

A shooting defendant was re-released on probation after spending three weeks at the DC Jail for violating the conditions of his parole before DC Superior Court Judge Robert Okun on Oct. 4.

On Dec. 20, 2022, Davon Easton, 31, pleaded guilty to attempted assault with a dangerous weapon and unlawful possession of a firearm by a convict for his involvement in the shooting of a Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officer at the 1300 block of Spring Road, NW on Jan. 23, 2022.

According to court documents, MPD officers noticed Easton walking and said he had a “visible reaction to police presence before walking away.” The officers followed Easton to try and make contact with him and when they were able to stop him, Easton allegedly fired at the officers.

One officer sustained a graze wound to the forehead and left hand.

Easton, who served 30 months in prison, had previously been released on probation until Judge Okun received a report that he had failed to comply with his conditions . On Aug. 27, Judge Okun issued an finding saying Easton’s probation officer had reported Easton failed to drug test and report as ordered.

On Sept. 6, Judge Okun issued a bench warrant for Easton who failed to show up for the hearing and on Sept. 18 before DC Superior Court Judge Anthony Epstein, Easton’s probation was revoked.

At the Oct. 4 hearing, Easton’s defense attorney, Kevin O’Sullivan, told the court that Easton’s circumstances have changed. O’Sullivan argued that when Easton was on probation previously, he had moved in with a friend who lived in a neighborhood that was unfamiliar to him. Now, Easton has the opportunity to move in with his girlfriend who O’Sullivan described as a “stabilizing force.”

O’Sullivan also said Easton had a job waiting for him and parents that have been ill that Easton would like to assist them.

Easton’s girlfriend addressed the court, saying there are a lot of people that need him, including her children, one of whom is Easton’s son.

The prosecution argued that Easton’s previous probation violations indicate a “continued pattern” of failure to comply with release conditions. They said Easton does not have an incentive to get into compliance if he is released again. O’Sullivan said Easton’s three weeks in jail are an incentive for him to comply.

Judge Okun agreed with the defense citing the new environment as reason for new conditions. Easton will be released on probation with GPS monitoring and a curfew from 7 p. m. to 7 a. m.

Partied as slated to reconvene on Nov. 15.

Homicide Co-Defendants Arraigned, Released from Home Confinement

Two homicide co-defendants were arraigned on second-degree murder charges before DC Superior Court Judge Robert Okun on Oct. 4. After the arraignment, Judge Okun lifted the co-defendant’s home confinement orders and instated a curfew.

Ashton Inabinet, 17, and Na’eem Butler, 21, are charged with second degree murder while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for their alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 24-year-old Diamante Lewis on Oct. 21, 2023 on the 900 block of U Street, NW.

According to court documents, when officers responded to the scene they located Lewis suffering from six gunshot wounds to the chest, hip, thigh, and leg. Lewis was pronounced dead at the scene by DC Fire and EMS personnel.

Inabinet is charged as an adult under Title 16 which allows the practice for certain serious crimes.

At the hearing, both defendants pleaded not guilty, and requested for their release conditions be modified. Prior to the hearing, both defendants had been on home confinement with GPS monitoring.

Kevann Gardner, Butler’s defense attorney, informed the court that Butler has been complying with all of his release conditions and received “excellent” reports from the Pretrial Services Agency (PSA), that oversees his release. He said Butler maintains a steady job and was nominated for employee of the month.

Gardner requested that Butler’s home confinement order be lifted and a curfew be instituted. Inabinet’s defense requested the same change for his client’s release conditions.

PSA and the prosecution deferred to the court to make the decision and Judge Okun granted the request. Butler and Inabinet must adhere to a curfew from 7 p. m.- to 7- a. m. and continue to be on GPS monitoring.

Stuart Sears, Inabinet’s defense attorney, informed the court that Inabinet would like to leave the jurisdiction and travel with his family to Tennessee for his grandparent’s 50th wedding anniversary that weekend. Pretrial confirmed that they would be able to monitor Inabinet while he was in Tennessee and Judge Okun approved the request.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Nov. 22.

Defense Asks to Dismiss Non-Fatal Shooting Case, Alleging ‘Vindictive Prosecution’

Molly Bunke, Amonte Moody‘s defense attorney, argued Moody’s case should be dismissed because of prosecutorial misconduct. The argument took place during Moody’s arraignment before DC Superior Court Judge Anthony Epstein on Oct. 4.

Moody, 18, is charged with four counts of assault with intent to kill while armed, four counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, and eight counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in a shooting on April 22 on the 1700 block of Independence Avenue, SE. No injuries were reported.

Court documents state surveillance video footage showed an individual identified as Moody shooting at a black SUV as it drove away. Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officers reported finding 26 shell casings at the scene.

Moody pleaded not guilty to all charges, and Bunke asserted his constitutional rights, including the right to a speedy trial.

Bunke said the prosecutor misled her during a phone call on Aug. 8 in which they discussed the charges the prosecution would bring against Moody if he didn’t accept the plea deal that was being offered at the time.

D.C. Witness previously reported the deal would have required Moody plead guilty to four counts of assault with a dangerous weapon and carrying a pistol without a license in return for the prosecution’s not seeking an indictment on greater charges.

According to Bunke, she told the prosecutor she would need to advise Moody on the plea deal if there was a possibility he would be indicted with assault with intent to kill (AWIK) because her co-counsel, Kavya Naini, wasn’t certified by the Public Defender Service (PDS) for advising clients on that charge.

If an AWIK charge was possible, the deadline for accepting or rejecting the plea offer would need to be extended, Bunke said she told the prosecutor, because she didn’t have time to visit Moody at DC Jail before the existing deadline.

“Did Ms. Bunke make clear that she would need to go to the jail if there was even a possibility of AWIK charges?” Judge Epstein asked the prosecutor.

“I think that’s a fair interpretation of what Ms. Bunke said,” the prosecutor replied.

Judge Epstein asked the prosecutor what he told Bunke would happen if Moody rejected the plea deal.

“That we would be indicting on ADW [assault with a deadly weapon] and PFCOV [possession of a firearm during a crime of violence],” the prosecutor said.

“Did you say, ‘Not AWIK’?” Judge Epstein asked.

“Yes,” said the prosecutor.

“Why didn’t you say, ‘It’s ADW and PFCOV, but there’s a possibility of AWIK?” Judge Epstein asked.

“I thought there was already an understanding baked into the conversation about how this process works,” the prosecutor said. He said Bunke should have known from past experience that the supervisors in the US Attorney’s Office (USAO), not the prosecutors who appear in the courtroom, have final authority over deciding what the charges will be.

“[Moody] says he detrimentally relied on the [prosecution’s] promise.” Judge Epstein said to Bunke. “Does that mean that, if Mr. Moody had known AWIKs were on the table, he would have accepted the [prosecution’s] offer?”

Bunke said she didn’t know the answer “because that conversation didn’t occur.”

Judge Epstein asked if it would be an adequate remedy for the prosecution to extend the same plea offer to Moody now, but Bunke said no.

“That would not be offering any kind of deterrence and would really be giving them a win,” Bunke said. “There’s vindictive prosecution here,” she said arguing for dismissal.

Bunke asked for an evidentiary hearing so the court could scrutinize the prosecution’s statements in phone calls, emails and written filings.

“This is not a unique instance of misrepresentation. This is one of many,” Bunke said.

Even if everything Bunke alleged was true, Judge Epstein said, “It’s not clear to me that the [prosecution] would be precluded from saying, ‘We’ve changed our minds.'”

Judge Epstein gave Bunke until Oct. 18 to submit a supplemental filing addressing that issue.

“I think the odds are very low that I would dismiss the case as a whole,” Judge Epstein said. “If there is a remedy, I think I would dismiss the AWIK charges, at the most.”

Judge Epstein noted Bunke had filed motions to release Moody and to suppress evidence the prosecution planned to present in trial. The prosecution had filed oppositions to those motions.

Judge Epstein gave Bunke additional time to reply in writing to the prosecution’s arguments.

Bunke asked Judge Epstein to hold an evidentiary hearing, requiring the prosecution to call witnesses to defend their claim that a single search warrant authorized multiple searches of Moody’s property.

Judge Epstein said he may hold an evidentiary hearing next time parties convene, depending on what he reads in the written filings for that motion.

The next hearing in this case is scheduled for Nov. 25.

Stabbing Defendant Receives Non-Compliance Warning

A non-fatal stabbing defendant was warned about non-compliance with her release requirements before DC Superior Court Judge Heidi Pasichow on Oct. 4.

Charlotte Norris, 40, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and second-degree burglary for her alleged involvement in a stabbing on Aug. 18, 2023 on the 2100 block of 1st Street, SW.

During the hearing, a representative from Pretrial Services Agency (PSA) informed the court that Norris was not complying with their treatment and release conditions. According to the representative, the defendant missed the whole month of September in her treatment program.

The representative also alerted Judge Pasichow that Norris continuously tested positive for drugs, including methamphetamines and cocaine.

Norris’ attorney, Claudine Harrison, told the courts about a medication that could have potentially marked her drug tests as positive — no proof of prescription was provided.

Norris’ caseworker was also present, and said Norris will be attending a residential treatment program which should last around 30 days.

Judge Pasichow stated that excuses can’t be tolerated and that residential treatment is the last resort.

Trial to begin on Oct. 22.

Homicides Rise in DC From August to September

According to D.C. Witness data, as of Oct. 2, there were 17 homicide incidents and 19 homicide victims in the District in September. The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) has announced one arrest made in relation to homicides that occurred during the month.

D.C. Witness found that there was a 55 percent increase in homicides compared to August, which had 11 homicide incidents.

There also was an increase in shooting victims, although not as significant. Compared to the 15 victims in August, there is a 27 percent increase.

According to the MPD, Bryant Nelson, 32, was arrested on Sept. 11, and charged with first-degree murder while armed for his alleged involvement in the Sept. 2 homicide of Townsend Reginald Sowell, 46. The incident occurred on the 2800 block of 7th Street NE.

Of the reported cases, there was one officer-involved shooting that occurred on the 2500 block of Marion Barry Avenue, SE on Sept. 1. According to MPD documents, the incident occurred at the scene of a car accident after an injured individual allegedly pulled his gun on officers and ignored instructions to put the weapon down.

Officers shot the suspect, 26-year-old Justin Robinson, who died from his injuries.

Police have not made any arrests for the remaining 15 homicide incidents. The MPD is offering a reward for information on any unsolved cases.

Judge Denies Defendant’s Release After Accepting Plea Deal

A stabbing defendant accepted a plea deal extended by prosecutors on Oct. 3, before DC Superior Court Judge Heidi Pasichow.

Junae Roberson, 37, was originally charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and assault with significant bodily injury while armed for her involvement in a stabbing on the 4000 block of 3rd Street, SE that occurred on July 20. One individual, Roberson’s sister, sustained injuries.

According to court documents, Roberson and the victim were in a dispute that led to the stabbing.

However, Roberson contends that a verbal argument ensued with a group of women down the street, and it was one of those women who actually stabbed the victim. After they returned home, Roberson began to dress the victim’s wound, but an argument ensued over money that Roberson had taken from the victim’s pocket. It was during that confrontation that the victim left the house and called the police.

During the hearing, Matthew Davies, Roberson’s attorney, alerted the court of her intent to accept a plea offer extended by the prosecution. The deal, according to Davies, required Roberson to plead guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon, in exchange for the prosecution’s not seeking an indictment.

Davies requested Roberson’s release, noting that she had a safe place to stay with her family if granted.

The prosecution countered by highlighting the violent nature of the crime, revealing that the victim was her sister, and that it was potentially unsafe to release her.

Judge Pasichow agreed and denied the request.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Oct. 21.

Stabbing Defendant Accepts Plea Deal

A defendant accepted a plea deal before DC Superior Court Judge Heidi Pasichow on Oct. 4.

William Brock, 33, was originally charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for his involvement in stabbing an inmate at the DC Jail on March 30 on the 1900 block of D Street SE.

During the hearing, Terrence Austin, Brock’s attorney, informed the court Brock would be pleading guilty to simple assault in exchange for the prosecution’s not seeking an indictment.

Brock also pled guilty to unlawful possession of a contraband — for possessing a sharp metal object at the DC Jail.

Parties will reconvene on Nov. 12 for sentencing.

Judge Denies Acquittal Motion For Stabbing Defendant

DC Superior Court Judge Andrea Hertzfeld denied a motion of acquittal in a stabbing defendant’s trial on Oct 3.

Jose Garcia Fuentes, 43, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and simple assault, for his alleged role in a stabbing incident that transpired on April 24 on the 4400 block of 14th Street, NW. One person sustained lacerations to their hand and face.

According to court documents, an individual identified as Fuentes entered a restaurant and started an unprovoked fight with another patron. After the suspect kicked the patron, the complainant stepped in to defuse the situation. As events unfolded, the suspect produced a knife and allegedly slashed the victim’s face and hand. After a struggle, the suspect escaped.

During the hearing, Henry Escoto, Fuentes’ attorney, filed a motion for judgment of acquittal, arguing the prosecution failed to meet their burden of proof.

Judge Hertzfeld sided with the prosecution, stating that a reasonable individual could find Fuestes guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

The prosecutor also called a detective from the Metropolitan Police Department(MPD) to the stand, who testified that he located the knife that was used in the attack.

The MPD detective stated that no DNA evidence was obtained from the knife, which was 18 inches in length. He said that the knife could have been anyone’s, and no evidence necessarily pointed to Fuentes.

After the prosecution rested, the defense called on Fuentes’ co-worker, who was present during the incident, but testified she didn’t watch or hear it happen because she was not nearby.

She added that, following the incident, Fuentes had black eyes and missed work for four days.

During closing arguments, the prosecution insisted that the surveillance footage showed all the facts of the case. They argued that Fuentes acted with malicious intent, and urged the jury to convict him of both charges.

However, Escoto argued that there is no evidence that the knife used was Fuentes’, and claimed that, because the incident occurred inside of a restaurant, the jury could infer that the knife was from the establishment.

Escoto further argued Fuentes acted in self-defense, saying he thought his life was in danger and only pulled the knife after being shoved and beaten.

Parties are set to return when the jury renders a verdict.

Mental Eval Delays Sentencing For Teen High School Shooter

DC Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur accepted a motion to continue the sentencing of a shooting defendant to allow for further evaluation regarding his mental health during a hearing on Oct. 4.

On June 21, Jonathan Johnson, 20, pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon, carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business, and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle for his involvement in a shooting that occurred on May 17, 2023 at Woodson High School at the 5300 block of Nannie Helen Burroughs Avenue, NE. The incident caused a fellow Woodson student to suffer non-life threatening injuries.

Johnson’s attorney, Edward Gain, alerted the court that Johnson was recently approved to work with a social worker following mental health evaluations. While Johnson was found competent and is not disputing his competency, it was noted that further evaluation with a social worker was necessary to provide information relevant to sentencing.

The prosecution did not object to the defense’s request for continuance, and Judge Arthur granted the motion.

Parties are set to reconvene on Feb. 7.

Defendant Rejects Global Plea in Homicide, Conspiracy Case

On Oct. 4, a homicide defendant rejected a global plea deal that would have required him to serve 56 years in prison, before DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt.

Reginald Steele, 24, and 27-year-old Aaron Brown are two of five individuals charged with conspiracy, first-degree murder while armed, assault with the intent to kill while armed, carrying a pistol without a license, and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence in connection to the fatal shooting of 13-year-old Malachi Lukes on March 1, 2020, on the 600 block of S Street, NW. Another juvenile sustained injuries after suffering a gunshot wound to the leg.

The incident also involved Koran Jackson, 23, Tyiion Kyree Freeman, 24, and Stephen Nelson, 22. Judge Brandt sentenced the individuals to 164 years, 108 years, and 108.5 years of incarceration, respectively, on Sept. 13 and Sept. 19.

The rejected global plea offer would resolve three of Steele’s cases and would have required him to plead guilty to second-degree murder while armed, assault with intent to kill while armed, and two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon for the Lukes’ incident.

In 2021, Steele was also allegedly involved in a jail stabbing. If he accepted the plea, he would have been required to plead guilty to assault with a deadly weapon in connection to the stabbing. All other charges for other incidents would have been dismissed.

Megan Allburn, the defense attorney for Steele, informed Judge Brandt that Steele was rejecting the deal, and asserted his right to a speedy trial.

The prosecution made a motion to recombine the trial for Steele and Brown, who were previously severed.

However, the motion was decided, as parties in the Brown case are still in plea negotiations. Brown will be required to make a decision on the plea deal at his next hearing.

Parties set a trial date in February 2025 for Steele’s stabbing case.

All parties will reconvene on Oct. 15.

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