Homicide Defendant Asks to Represent Himself

After being found competent to stand trial on July 19, a stabbing defendant requested on Sept. 24 that DC Superior Court Judge Marisa Demeo let him defend himself in court.

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, and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence among other charges 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.

Stephen Lofergo, Walker’s attorney, said he and his client had the opportunity to review a report filed by the DC Department of Behavioral Health and had no objections to it. He said Walker wanted to resolve this matter without going to trial and wished to represent himself in future proceedings with Lofergo as his advisor.

Judge Demeo said she will need to discuss Walker’s rights including waiving his right to an attorney.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on Oct. 4.

Defendant Stabbed in a Fight Accepts Plea Deal

A defendant accepted a plea agreement extended by prosecutors in connection to a fight and a stabbing in a hearing on Sept. 23 before DC Superior Court Judge Heidi Pasichow.

Steven Spencer, 28, was originally charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for his involvement in a stabbing on July 7, at the intersection of E and 8th Street, SE.

According to court documents, Spencer and another individual were on the X2 bus when Spencer went to the back and yelled at the victim for sitting in his seat.

According to the prosecutor, the victim produced a folding knife and stabbed the Spencer three times in the abdomen. Then after an ensuing argument Spencer got off the bus and allegedly hit the victim in the head with a wine bottle.

Spencer sustained injuries to his abdomen, and the victim suffered a head laceration that later developed into a brain bleed, according to the prosecution.

At the hearing, Jamison Koehler, Spencer’s attorney, alerted the court of his intent to accept a deal, which required him to plead guilty to attempted assault with a dangerous weapon in exchange for the prosecution not filing greater charges.

Additionally, Koehler filed a motion for Spencer’s release, stating that he accepted “responsibility for an offense for which he was the initial victim,” and argued he does not pose a risk of flight danger to the community.

Judge Pasichow denied the request.

Parties slated to reconvene on Nov. 15.

Judge Revokes Probation for Shooting Defendant

DC Superior Court Judge Anthony Epstein revoked a shooting defendant’s probation on Sept. 18, following his failure to appear at a Sept. 6 hearing and multiple probation violations.

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

On Sept. 6, DC Superior Court Judge Robert Okun issued a bench warrant for Easton due to his failure to appear in court for a probation show cause hearing.

In an order issued on Aug. 27, Judge Okun stated he had received an “alleged violation report” from Easton’s probation officer, which stated Easton had “failed to drug test and to report as directed.”

During the Sept. 18 hearing, Easton’s defense attorney, Kevin O’Sullivan, requested Judge Epstein, who was standing in for Judge Okun, release Easton back into the community and give him a chance to complete his probation requirements.

According to O’Sullivan, Easton is new to the District, has a job, and is pursuing a relationship with a teenage son he recently discovered. O’Sullivan added that Easton is his parents’ caregiver as they confront illness.

The prosecution objected stating that Easton’s actions reflect his inability to better himself, citing a criminal history.

Judge Epstein revoked Easton’s probation, noting the broken rules and that his current circumstances were not a motivation for self-improvement.

Parties are expected to return to court on Oct. 4.

Judge Denies Carjacking Defendant’s Release

DC Superior Court Judge Renee Raymond denied a carjacking defendant’s release after he waived his right to a preliminary hearing on Sept. 23.

Martrail Cunningham, 26, is charged with two counts of armed carjacking and two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence from his alleged involvement in multiple incidents, which occurred on Aug. 4 at the 1300 block of Wallach Place, NW, and on Aug. 25 at the 1300 block of Jasper Place, SE.

Cunningham was allegedly involved in two other charged armed carjacking incidents for which he is yet to charged with that took place on Aug. 17 at the 1000 block of Perry Street, NW, and on Aug. 14 at the 700 block of Newton Place, NW.

Cunningham’s lawyer, Susan Borecki, alerted the court that Cunningham was waiving his right to a preliminary hearing and requested Cunningham be released with GPS monitoring, arguing that has a stable living situation, three children, a job working in landscaping, and no prior history of failing to appear in scourt.

The prosecution disagreed arguing Cunningham would be a danger to society if released.

The prosecution noted that although Cunningham is only accused in connection to two incidents he’s facing additional charges. They also stated that during one incident a firearm was allegedly brandished and that in another a weapon discharged.

Additionally, the prosecution stated that the stolen vehicles were found at an address linked to Cunningham and that identifying materials were found in one of the vehicles as well as a handgun and ammunition.

The prosecution noted that Cunningham has a pending case in Maryland for robbery and a prior robbery case.

Judge Raymond ruled that Cunningham would continue to be held at the jail, finding that there were no conditions or combination of conditions of release that would ensure the safety of society.

“The weight of the evidence is exceedingly strong,” Judge Raymond said, adding that his employment is “erased by fairly consistent and nominally dangerous behavior during the month of August.”

Parties are set to reconvene on Oct. 17.

Stabbing Defendant Pleads Not Guilty at Arraignment

A stabbing defendant pleaded not guilty during an arraignment on Sept. 23 in front of DC Superior Court Judge Judith Pipe.

Samuel Robinson, 44, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and possession of a prohibited weapon, allegedly committed during release from another criminal matter, for his alleged role in a stabbing at the Mount Vernon Square Metro Station on the 700 block of M Street, NW, on Feb. 6. One person sustained a stab wound to the back of the head.

According to court documents, two individuals, one later identified as Robinson, were in a physical altercation, which led to the stabbing.

At the hearing, Michelle Lockard, Robinson’s defense attorney, announced that he is pleading not guilty to all of the charges and that he asserts his constitutional rights, including the right to a speedy trial.

Moreover, Lockard asked the court to release Robinson, citing he is taking medication to treat his mental health issues. Judge Pipe denied the request, stating that he should still be detained to ensure he is able to take his prescription medication.

The parties are scheduled to reconvene on Nov. 1.

Carjacking Defendant Accepts Plea Deal

On Sept. 20, a carjacking defendant accepted a plea deal in front of Superior Court Judge Jason Park.

Tony Walker, 28, was originally charged with possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, unauthorized use of a vehicle, first-degree theft, and unarmed carjacking for his involvement in a theft and carjacking incident on the 400 block of Marietta Place, NW on Jan. 10.

During the hearing, Terrence Austin, Walker’s defense attorney, alerted the court of Walker’s intent to accept a deal which required Walker to plead guilty to unarmed carjacking and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, in exchange of the prosecution not seeking an indictment.

Parties are expected to reconvene for sentencing on Oct. 4.

Stabbing Case Continued Over Venue For Competency Treatment

On Sep. 20 DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park ordered a postponement to determine treatment options for competency restoration for a stabbing defendant currently in Massachusetts.

Michael Burke, 45, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal stabbing during a street fight on the 1700 block of Rhode Island Avenue, NE on April 16.

According to court documents, the victim suffered a cut to the left side of his left jaw and was transported to the hospital with the blade still lodged inside his mouth.

Burke was released in April, and returned to his home in Massachusetts, with the condition that he would seek mental health assessments and competency evaluation.

When discussing the results of the examination and release status, defense attorney Thomas Healy stated that the doctor concluded Burke should continue competency restoration in Massachusetts.

The prosecution requested that Burke receive “local restoration” within DC, because that’s where he allegedly committed the crime.

Burke, who attended the hearing remotely, requested to speak with the judge, inquiring if he ordered officers to follow him, and expressed that he had “issues with the competency treatment” and was “going to complain to the FBI” alleging unfair treatment.

Judge Park responded that Massachusetts “wasn’t his [the judge’s] jurisdiction,” and ordered a continuance to allow Healy to determine Burke’s options for receiving competency restoration services in Massachusetts or other options than in DC.

Parties are expected to reconvene on Oct. 7.

Mental Competency Exam Requested for Shooting Defendant

DC Superior Court Judge Renee Raymond ordered a shooting defendant’s transfer to St. Elizabeths Hospital to receive a full mental competency examination during a hearing on Sept. 23.

Bryant Russell, 47, is charged with aggravated assault knowingly while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a convict for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting that occurred on June 6, 2024 on the 5000 block of Just Street, NE. One individual sustained injuries during the incident.

A mental competency exam for Russell was previously requested on Aug. 14.

During the hearing, Judge Raymond revealed that the results of the exam were inconclusive and that it was recommended that Russell be transferred to St. Elizabeths for a full mental competency exam.

Judge Raymond ordered the transfer that said the court would wait 40 days to receive the results of the next evaluation.

Parties are set to reconvene on Nov. 4.

Shooting Defendant Claims Self-Defense in Trial

A shooting defendant claimed he acted in self-defense before a jury in DC Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur’s courtroom on Sept. 19.

Jerry Tyree, 46, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon, unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, unlawful possession of liquid PCP, and unlawful possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged role in a Nov. 29, 2023, shooting on the 5900 block of Foote Street, NE. A transgender woman sustained injuries to her penis and groin during the incident.

Sara Kopecki, Tyree’s defense attorney, called on the defendant to testify about his recollection of the incident.

Tyree testified that after leaving a liquor store near his home, he encountered an individual he believed to be a woman who flagged him down. According to Tyree, the two agreed to exchange money for a sexual act, after which they proceeded to the crime scene. Inside an apartment building, Tyree said, the individual performed oral sex while placing her hand in his pocket and taking approximately 80 dollars.

Tyree said that the individual produced a firearm when he demanded his money back. He testified that in fearing for his life, he attempted to disarm her, and in the struggle, the gun discharged. Tyree emphasized that he was not trying to fire the weapon but only meant to twist it out of her hand. He explained that after the gun went off, he took the firearm and fled.

During his testimony, Tyree became emotional when asked why he hadn’t reported the incident to the police. He spoke of his long-standing distrust of law enforcement, recounting a previous incident in which he was allegedly robbed and falsely imprisoned by police officers.

Parties are slated to reconvene Sept. 23.

Case Acquitted: Stabbing Defendant Pleads Not Guilty at Arraignment

Editor’s Note: Darryl Myers was acquitted of all charges by a jury on March 27, 2026.

A stabbing defendant pleaded not guilty to all charges during an arraignment before DC Superior Court Judge Michael O’Keefe on Sept. 19.

Darryl Myers, 51, is charged with assault with intent to kill while armed, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, assault with significantly bodily injury while armed, misdemeanor sex abuse, and simple assault, for his alleged involvement in a stabbing incident on June 7 at the Dupont Circle near the intersection of New Hampshire Avenue and 20th Street, NW.. One person sustained four stab wounds to the neck, while another individual was allegedly groped.

According to court documents, an individual, later identified as Myers, approached a couple sitting at a park bench and began yelling slurs at them. Allegedly, he groped the woman, and, when the man tried to stop Myers, he allegedly stabbed him. Police detained him after someone matching his description was transported to the same emergency room as the stabbing victim.

At the hearing, Myers’ attorney, Alvin Thomas, announced that he intends to plead not guilty to all charges and requested a speedy jury trial.

The prosecution also alerted Judge O’Keefe they had extended a plea deal, which would require Myers to plead guilty to assault with intent to kill while armed in exchange for a dismissal of all other charges.

Myers rejected the offer, and reasserted his constitutional rights.

Parties are slated to reconvene Nov. 20.

Shooting Defendant’s Trial Postponed For Defense’s Ongoing Investigation

A shooting defendant’s attorney requested DC Superior Court Judge Michael O’Keefe delay trial, slated to begin in October, in order to continue investigating the case on Sept. 19.

Antonio Hawley, 21, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed , possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business, for his alleged involvement in the murder of Aaron Wiggins, 26. The incident occurred on the 400 block of 13th Street, SE, on Oct. 6, 2021.

According to court documents, Wiggins sustained at least 12 gunshot wounds, injuring his body, including his elbow, arms, hands, legs, hips, and chest.

During the hearing, Julie Swaney, Hawley’s attorney, alerted Judge O’Keefe she was not prepared to go to trial, stating the defense is conducting its own investigation, which could end with a Winfield motion which provides information that may prove someone other than the defendant committed the crime.

Due to the defense’s ongoing investigation, Judge O’Keefe granted the request for a trial delay. A new trial date was scheduled for January 2026.

Parties are slated to reconvene Dec. 20.

Homicide Defendant Pleads Not Guilty at Arraignment

A homicide defendant pleaded not guilty to all charges in his arraignment hearing in front of DC Superior Court Judge Michael O’Keefe on Sept. 19.

Deonte Spicer, 37, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a convict, for his alleged involvement in the shooting of Tyvez Monroe, 27, on Dec. 26, 2023, on the 600 block of Maryland Avenue, SW.

According to court documents, Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officers were sent to the scene of the incident, where they found Monroe lying on a sidewalk by a bus stop. He was transported to George Washington University Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.

During the hearing, his defense attorney, Marnitta King, announced that he intends to plead not guilty to all charges and invoked his right to a speedy trial.

Parties are slated to reconvene Nov. 22.

‘He Was There Behind the Scenes,’ Judge Says in Sentencing Man to More Than 100 Years in Conspiracy, Murder Case

DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt sentenced a defendant who provided the guns for a shooting to 108 years and six months in prison on Sept. 19.

Stephen Nelson, 22, was convicted on July 10 of 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, tampering with physical evidence, and possession of an unregistered firearm 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.

Nelson was charged alongside Koran Jackson, 23, Tyiion Kyree Freeman, 24, who were sentenced to 164 and 108 years of incarceration.

Judge Brandt said the jury found Nelson responsible for the shooting due to his role in providing the guns to Jackson, Freeman and the other co-conspirators. She said phone and text conversations showed he knew how the guns were being used.

“He was there behind the scenes,” Judge Brandt said.

Judge Brandt said that while Nelson did not pull the trigger, the jury found he was involved in the murder and conspiracy and she had to sentence him according to that. She laid out a sentence of 108 years and six months in prison.

“It would be unfair to give Mr. Nelson a different sentence than his colleagues,” Judge Brandt said.

Before the judge gave the sentence, Nelson turned to the victim’s family sitting in the gallery, and apologized.

“I’m sorry about your son,” Nelson said to the victim’s mother.

Prosecutors said Nelson has been in the criminal justice system his entire adult life and knows the consequences of his actions. They said Nelson was not an “unwitting participant,” but was the one supplying the guns and offering encouragement to the perpetrators of the shooting.

“The community should not have to take another chance on Mr. Nelson,” the prosecutor said.

Lisbeth Saperstein, one of Nelson’s attorneys, said Jackson and Freeman could have gotten the guns from another source if Nelson had not provided them. She asked the judge for a sentence that reflects his involvement in the crime, which did not involve actively shooting people.

Judge Brandt ordered Nelson to pay $2,200 to the Victims of Violent Crime Fund by Dec. 31, 2075.

Judge Brandt told Nelson that he has 30 days to file an appeal.

No further hearings are scheduled in this case.

Defense Asks for More Time Before Competency Reevaluation

A defense attorney requested a felony status conference postponement to allow more time to decide if the defendant needs a full mental competency screening in a hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Heidi Pasichow on Sept. 20.

Christopher Cary, 36, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for his alleged involvement in the stabbing of one victim in the lower back on Feb. 29 at the 3600 block of 16th Street, NW.

Cary did not appear because he refused to allow US Marshals to transport him to court from the DC Jail. His appearance was waived by Janai Reed, his attorney.

Reed requested the felony status conference postponement because she needs to more time to speak to Cary and review the evidence obtained through discovery from the prosecution. Reed said that although Cary was found competent to stand trial in April, he was deemed incompetent in prior findings.

Reed informed the court that she wants more time to decide whether to file a motion to have Cary reevaluated for competency. She suggested a hearing “just to be safe” which Judge Pasichow denied.

Reed also mentioned that she is in contact with the prosecution about a potential plea offer but the terms were undisclosed.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Oct. 11.

Parties Clash Over Witness Testimony in Mother and Son Murder Case

In a Sept. 20 motion hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan a Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) detective confirmed a suspect’s presence in surveillance footage.

Jaquell Jackson, 20, is charged with one count of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence and second-degree murder while armed.

Chakeatia Jackson, 39, Jaquell’s mother, is also charged with second-degree murder while armed. Jackson is not currently detained while Jaquell has been jailed.

The charges stem from the mother and son’s alleged involvement in a shooting incident that occurred on the 1300 Block of Congress Street, SE, on Sept. 15, 2021, which resulted in the death of 37-year-old Tarshaqua Chappell.

A Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) detective said Jaquell was identified from social media posts, surveillance footage and a witness who named Jaquell based on knowledge of his stature, clothing and build.

Defense attorney Brian McDaniel raised concerns about the identification due to grainy surveillance footage and that when the witness was questioned, the interview was not recorded, leaving what was said known only by the MPD detective and the witness.

Due to schedule conflicts and time restrictions, the hearing was continued to Oct. 9.

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