Document: MPD Releases Video of Murder Suspect

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) have released video of a suspect involved in a shooting that killed a man on Feb. 12 on the 900 block of Shepherd Street, NW.

According to MPD documents, officers responded to the location for the sound of gunshots. They located 32-year-old Jeremy Dewayne Johnson with gunshot wound injuries. He died at the scene.

The suspect was captured by nearby surveillance footage.

MPD offers a reward to anyone that provides information which leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for each homicide in the District.

Document: MPD Investigating January Shooting as Homicide

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) is investigating a homicide after a victim of a shooting in January succumbed to his injuries.

According to MPD documents, on Jan. 20, officers responded to the 1200 block of Emerson Street, NW, for the report of a shooting. There, they located an unresponsive man outside of a vehicle suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

On Feb. 28, the victim succumbed to his injuries. He was identified as 40-year-old Andre Wilson.

MPD offers a reward to anyone that provides information which leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for each homicide in the District.

Judge Re-Orders Mental Observation for Suspect in Police Shootout

On Feb. 29, DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan ordered a new mental competency exam for a defendant in a police involved non-fatal shooting case.

Stephen Rattigan, 48, also known as James Julius, is charged with assault with intent to kill while armed, cruelty to animals, three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and two counts of assault on a police officer while armed, for his alleged involvement in the shooting of three Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officers on February 14, on the 5000 block of Hanna Place, SE. A fourth officer sustained injuries that were not gunshot related.

According to MPD documents, officers responded to the location to serve an arrest warrant on Rattigan who was wanted for cruelty to animals. While officers were outside the residence, the suspect allegedly fired multiple gunshots through the door, striking three officers.

Rattigan, says the police report, barricaded himself inside his residence and continued shooting sporadically throughout the standoff. After Rattigan surrendered, Humane Society officers recovered some 31 dogs from his residence.

In Judge Raffinan’s courtroom, Rattigan’s defense attorney, Stephen Logerfo, requested a new mental competency exam for Rattigan. He claimed that Rattigan had refused to attend his previous session because he was in a state of confusion, but now understood the importance of the testing to his case.

Rattigan informed the court that he had been placed on suicide watch for the past week because he missed his dogs and had “not seen them in two weeks.” He also informed the court that his legal first name was Michael, not Stephen.

Judge Raffinan advised Rattigan to refrain from making statements on his own and instead allow his defense attorney to speak on his behalf. She approved the request for another competency exam.

Parties are slated to return to discuss the results of the exam on March 8.

Prosecution Motions to Dismiss Charge in Non-Fatal Shooting Case

On Feb. 29, parties met in DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan’s courtroom for a trial readiness hearing about contested evidence in a non-fatal shooting case.

Kamara Huffler, 32, is charged with assault with intent to kill, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, and multiple unlawful possession of a firearm charges, for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting incident that occurred on Sept. 19, 2022, on the 800 block of Barnaby Street, SE.

According to court documents, Huffler was allegedly involved in a shoot-out with another individual after attempting to break into his apartment on the afternoon of the incident. The other individual sustained a gunshot wound to his knee.

While both Huffler and the other individual allegedly fired at each other, it is unclear as to who fired the first shot. Huffler was later arrested on Sept. 26, 2022 by Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officers with a firearm that closely matched the bullet fragments recovered from the shooting.

On Feb. 5, DC Superior Court Judge Anthony Epstein ruled that the manner of Huffler’s arrest had violated his constitutional right against illegal search and seizure and ordered that evidence obtained be suppressed during his trial.

Specifically, Judge Epstein ruled that police didn’t have sufficient reason to stop and search Huffler when they discovered he had a gun.

On Feb. 27, this case was transferred from Judge Epstein to Judge Raffinan.

During the trial readiness hearing, the prosecution filed a motion for Judge Raffinan to reconsider Judge Epstein’s ruling. Huffler’s defense attorneys, Jamison Koehler and Karen Minor, stated that they had not had time to review the new motion yet, and would respond to it at a later date.

The prosecution also proposed a motion to dismiss one of Huffler’s lesser charges, one count of possession of a large capacity of ammunition. Koehler and Minor had no objection. Judge Raffinan stated she would rule on the motion from her chambers once it was filed.

Parties are slated to return for jury selection on March 4.

Hearing Concerns Penn State Student and Juvenile Accused in Non-Fatal Shooting

On Feb. 29, DC Superior Court Judge Robert Okun heard from two witnesses regarding a fatal shooting case.

Na’eem Butler, 20, a Pennsylvania State University student, and Ashton Inabinet, 16, are being charged with second-degree murder while armed for their alleged involvement in the fatal-shooting of 24-year-old Diamonte Lewis. The incident occurred on October 21, 2023, on the 900 block of U street, NW.

Inabinet is charged as an adult under Title 16.

According to court documents, Butler and Inabinet were hanging with a group of friends, when confronted by Lewis and his group of friends while walking on U Street. In their first altercation, Lewis’ group of friends allegedly asked Butler and Inabinet’s group for some marijuana. They declined, and Lewis and his friends immediately got upset, with somone allegedly punching one of Butler’s friends so hard, he dropped to the ground.

Once Butler and Inabinet’s group walked away, surveillance footage showed Lewis’ group following them, visibly picking up their pace to catch up to the group. Once the two groups were in close proximity, surveillance footage showed Lewis falling to the ground when Butler and Inabinet are allegedly seen shooting in his direction.

The prosecution’s first witness was the Metropolitan Police Department’s (MPD) lead detective on the case who received a report from an eyewitness that Lewis was seen grabbing his waist band in the initial encounter between both groups.

The prosecution asked her what this motion implied, and the detective claimed that it could signify that an individual has a gun. When Lewis’ body was examined, no firearms were recovered.

In cross-examination, Butler’s defense attorney, Kevann Gardner, argued that Lewis was the first aggressor, since he allegedly approached Butler and Inabinet’s group asking for marijuana. Gardner claims that after the defendants said no and tried to get away from the situation, Lewis’ group is seen on surveillance footage speeding up to catch up to Butler’s group.

According to the detective’s testimony, the two groups had two physical altercations that were not fully captured on video.

For the second altercation, which was the shooting, the prosecution provided the court with footage from a crime camera located on the corner of U Street, NW.

The video was grainy, and very difficult to make out exactly what the individuals were doing. Gardner took a screenshot from the original video, and questioned the detective about what she saw.

Gardner claimed that one of Lewis’ friends can be seen with a gun in his hand, although the detective previously claimed that no one in Lewis’ group had a firearm.

Gardner tried to have the detective identify the firearm in Lewis’ friend’s hand, but she stated that she couldn’t see it.

Inabinet’s defense attorney, Stuart Sears, stated “These kids did nothing to provoke those two men,” referencing Lewis and his friend. Sears argued that there is no evidence that the defendants threatened Lewis or his friends.

Gardner’s next witness was from the Public Defender Service (PDS) and works as an investigative specialist.

The witness completed a review for the case and used a measuring wheel to compute the distance between the spot the two groups first came in contact and where the shooting occurred, which was about 2112 feet.

Due to time constraints, the preliminary hearing was unable to be continued.

Parties are slated to return March 4.

‘I Don’t Have Any Faith That You’ve Learned Your Lesson This Time,’ Says Judge Sentencing Shooting Defendant

On March 1, DC Superior Court Judge Michael O’Keefe sentenced a shooting defendant to nine years of incarceration.

Tyrone Hawkins, 22, was originally charged with assault with intent to kill while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, possession of an unregistered firearm, among other charges, for his involvement in a non-fatal shooting that occurred on Sept. 23, 2021, on the 400 block of Valley Avenue, SE. One individual sustained non-life-threatening injuries from the incident.

On Sept. 22, 2023, Hawkins accepted a deal which required him to plead guilty to assault with intent to kill and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence in exchange for a dismissal of all other charges. The parties agreed to a five-to-nine-year sentence range.

Clint Broadus, 25, was also charged in connection to the incident, and was sentenced on Feb. 16 to five years for assault with a dangerous weapon and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence.

The prosecution alerted the court that the victim was unavailable to deliver an impact statement at this sentencing, but requested they adopt his statement from Broadus’ sentencing hearing.

The victim told the court then that the incident still haunts him, and he continues to be nervous when he’s in public and approached by strangers.

The prosecution requested Hawkins be sentenced to seven years for his involvement in the shooting, adding that they don’t believe he’s a good candidate for rehabilitation.

Likewise, a Youth Rehabilitation Act (YRA) Study recommended Hawkins not be given sentencing consideration under the YRA that can moderate penalties and effectively seal criminal records.

Todd Baldwin, Hawkins’ defense attorney, disagreed with the prosecution and the study, stating “he is not beyond rehabilitation.”

He requested Hawkins be sentenced to five years, stating that “he knows he reacted wrongly,” and adding that he should get the same sentence as his co-defendant.

“He grew up in very tough circumstances, in some very tough streets,” claimed Baldwin, adding that he has seen a “great deal of sadness from [Hawkins] lately.”

Hawkins apologized to the victim, their family, and his family for his actions.

Judge O’Keefe stated that Hawkins has been getting in trouble since 2014, with multiple incidents stemming from actions that started this shooting. He mentioned six incidents that stemmed from robberies, with multiple ending in convictions.

Judge O’Keefe also stated that Hawkins was released for the last robbery in August of 2021, and was arrested for this shooting in September of 2021.

“I don’t have any faith that you’ve learned your lesson this time,” said Judge O’Keefe. “It’s a miracle that man wasn’t killed or seriously injured,” he stated.

The judge said shooting in broad daylight is “dangerous behavior and can’t be tolerated.”

Judge O’Keefe sentenced Hawkins to nine years of incarceration for the assault with intent to kill charge, and five years for the possession of a firearm charge. They will be served concurrent.

“You’re not deserving of a low end of the guidelines sentence,” he said, adding “you made those choices, so you have to pay the consequences.”

He also required Hawkins to participate in cognitive therapy, anger management, register as a gun offender, and stay away from the victim.

No further dates were set.

Judge Sentences Murder Defendant to 32 Years of Incarceration

On March 1, DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt sentenced a homicide defendant to 32 years for his involvement in a 2018 murder.

Marquette Jordan, 32, was originally charged with first-degree murder while armed, robbery while armed, two counts of threat to kidnap or injure a person, assault with a dangerous weapon, simple assault, and carrying a dangerous weapon, for his involvement in the death of 48-year-old Ivan Lynch on April 30, 2018, on the 900 block of 5th Street, SE. Lynch was murdered on his birthday.

On April 12, 2022, following a weeks-long trial, a jury acquitted Jordan of the first-degree murder and robbery charges. However, they were unable to reach a verdict on the lesser included charge of second-degree murder while armed.

On Dec. 19, 2023, following a re-trial, a jury convicted Jordan of second-degree murder while armed, assault, and carrying a dangerous weapon.

During the sentencing hearing, the prosecution read two victim impact statements, written by Lynch’s ex-wife and his sister.

Lynch’s ex-wife told the court that his loss is “too immeasurable to express,” adding “Ivan left here with a broken heart and that will haunt me forever.”

“I pray for Jordan’s mom,” she stated in her letter, “that is a loss for both families.”

She deemed Jordan a “troubled man, demon-possessed, untrustworthy” individual, and requested Judge Brandt sentence him to the maximum amount of time possible.

Likewise, Lynch’s sister stated their family has a “lifetime” of healing to do, adding that she doesn’t “wish this feeling on anyone.”

In her letter, she told the court envisions Lynch struggling to remain alive, adding that, although he had a troubled past, he “maintained hope for a better tomorrow.”

The prosecution insisted that “Lynch did nothing to justify this attack,” adding that he was “a truly innocent victim.”

They requested Judge Brandt depart from voluntary sentencing guidelines, which suggests an individual with Jordan’s criminal history be sentenced to 13-to-25 years of incarceration.

They argued that Jordan murdered Lynch in front of two children, and assaulted their mother before stabbing Lynch, adding that the children remember the incident, and continue to deal with the trauma.

Prosecutors also requested Judge Brandt take into consideration the lies that Jordan spewed during the first trial, including about Lynch being the first aggressor.

However, Michael Bruckheim, Jordan’s defense attorney, requested Jordan be sentenced towards the low end of the guidelines, adding that the children were one and three-years-old and have “no recollection of it.”

Bruckheim requested Judge Brandt look at the evidence and not his testimony.

Jordan asserted his right to make a statement during the hearing, and alleged that his constitutional rights were violated, adding that “all matters in DC need to be dealt with in front of Congress,” saying that the verdict reached by the jury was not valid.

“You’re violating the Constitution,” he told Judge Brandt. He did not make a statement to Lynch’s family.

Following Jordan’s statement, Judge Brandt told Lynch’s family “I appreciate the fact that you sent lettters and rode this process out. It hasn’t been easy.”

“I have had a front row seat to your profound grief,” said Judge Brandt, noting that looking at Lynch’s sons in the courtroom is like “looking at him through a mirror.”

“Thanks for the opportunity to see the type of person he was,” she stated.

Judge Brandt said, although the guidelines call for a range of sentencing, the prosecution had proved that there were aggravating factors that gave her reason to deviate.

However, she said “I can’t deviate from the guidelines because Jordan can be a jerk sometimes,” adding that she could deviate from them due to the children’s presence and what they had to deal with after the stabbing, and the deliberate cruelty that Jordan acted with when stabbing Lynch.

As for one of the children, Judge Brandt stated “she’s collateral damage from that evening,” adding that she suffers with mental health and cognitive issues which have had an impact on her emotional and academic maturity.

“Adults should not behave badly in front of impressionable children,” she exclaimed.

She reiterated the fact that Jordan refused to render aid to Lynch, refused to call 911 for help, and took his children away from the scene after the stabbing. “He chose not to help,” Judge Brandt insisted.

“You chose to do nothing. That’s cruel. That’s also heinous,” she ended.

Jordan was sentenced to 30 years of incarceration with five years of supervised release for the murder charge, and 2 years of incarceration for the carrying a dangerous weapon charge, which are required to be served consecutively, totaling 32 years of imprisonment.

Judge Brandt also sentenced Jordan to 180 days for the assault charge, which is a misdemeanor, and will run concurrent to the other charges.

Judge Brandt reminded the defense they had 30 days to appeal.

No further dates were set.

‘Overwhelming Case,’ Says Judge, As He Finds Probable Cause for Homicide

On Feb. 28, DC Superior Court Judge Robert Okun found probable cause that a defendant was the perpetrator in a homicide.

Yazmin Owens, 24, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed for her alleged involvement in the death of Nakysia Lemon-Williams, 26, on Nov. 14, 2023, on the 1900 block of Minnesota Avenue, SE.

According to MPD documents, officers were flagged down at the location for the report of a shooting. When they arrived, they located Lemon-Williams with gunshot wound injuries and transported her to a local hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries.

Owens’ defense attorney, Sylvia Smith, resumed her cross examination of lead Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) homicide detective on the case. regarding an eyewitness’ criminal history, which included burglary, robbery, and firearm convictions. The detective acknowledged the convictions.

The detective also stated that MPD took surveillance footage from numerous locations around the crime scene, including “several Metro buses,” and footage from an apartment where the homicide took place.

When asked about why body-worn cameras and Ring doorbell footage were not submitted in police reports, the detective stated that there was “nothing there that would assist the investigation.”

Smith questioned disparities between MPD’s statements about the actual timing of events and the timestamps on the footage. According to the detective, there were technical issues as discussed in the affidavit. However, he said the footage is “clear” showing the suspect and Lemon-Williams walking together, before an interaction occurs off camera.

The footage contains audible statements including Owens allegedly telling Lemon-Williams to leave the complex. Smith argued that Lemon-Williams “struck” Owens. The detective stated that he could not confirm that from the footage.

According to Smith, another witness talked to the detective and provided photographs and surveillance footage of the incident used to identify Owens as a suspect.

Smith asked why the witness was taking photos, and who was included?

The detective said there were safety concerns in the building, adding that the witness was taking pictures, “to make sure that area of the building calms down.”

Smith referred to another female mentioned in the affidavit, who had a ‘Twin’ tattoo. Smith noted that Owens has a twin sister.

The detective stated that MPD ruled out Owens’ twin as a suspect in this case.

Smith went on to question the sobriety of three different witnesses and impugned Lemon-Williams’ sobriety, to which the detective stated that she “had a drug habit.” However, he stated he has not seen any evidence of violent behavior, assaultive conduct, or Lemon-Williams possessing weapons.

When discussing Owens’ arrest, the detective stated she “ran away” from officers.

In arguing probable cause, the prosecution presented multiple video surveillance segments and audio from the incident. One clip shows an individual identified as Owens approaching Lemon-Williams before the shooting, with audio of Owens allegedly saying “she deserves an Oscar for that s**t” while boarding a bus.

During her initial interview with MPD, Owens allegedly told detectives an item she was seen holding in surveillance footage was a stick, later saying that the object could be anything.

According to the prosecution, their case is “exceptionally strong,” arguing that Owens’ actions are “strong evidence of premeditation.”

Smith responded that the identification process was “not enough” to meet the standard of probable cause. She said the witness that “the detective relied heavily on” failed to identify the shooter.

In mentioning the police interview, Smith stated that the “statements should give serious pause,” arguing that Owens seemed to be sleepy and lethargic.

Smith also referred to Owens’ past, stating that she has “no prior assaultive conduct” and that no threats were made in any of the evidence.

The defense repeatedly admonished the lead detective for his investigation, and insisted that his reliance on the interview represents a “failure of the detective to do any meaningful investigation.”

Nonetheless,Judge Okun found probable cause, stating “I don’t think it is a close case at all.” He described the incident as “a quick shooting” and an “overwhelming case.”

He referred to surveillance footage shown earlier allegedly depicting the crime as, “One of the most powerful and inculpatory videos I have seen during my time on the bench.”

However, he stated that “the defense has done a good job of identifying weaknesses in accounts,” by witnesses.

As opposed to detention Smith asked for Owens to be put in a mental institution under GPS monitoring and offered drug treatment.

Smith referred to Owens’ absence of a criminal history and stated that detention at the DC Jail would be harmful. She called the jail “unfit for humans,” and stated that mental and physical healthcare “does not exist” at the facility.

The prosecution displayed images of Owens allegedly assaulting a correctional officer at the jail, and added that “the violence we hear about in jail is caused by the defendant.”

The defense responded the prosecution is “making stuff up”, and taking things out of context.

In rebuttal, the prosecution alleged that if Owens is released, she may harm witnesses. in that, “She’s already murdered one person.”

Judge Okun ruled that there is enough evidence detain Owens. He will later take up a defense contention that Owens’ rights were violated because she didn’t fully consent to a police interview.

Judge Okun concluded there is “no crime more serious in DC than first-degree murder.”

Parties are slated to return April 5.

Homicide Defendant Rejects Plea Offer

On Feb. 29, a homicide defendant rejected a plea offer before DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt.

Walter Jenkins, 35, is charged with first-degree murder while armed, three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, two counts of assault with intent to kill while armed, unlawful possession of a firearm, and carrying a rifle or shotgun outside a home or place of business for his alleged involvement in the death of David Williams, 52, on the 2000 block of Bruce Place, SE, on Nov. 14, 2021.

During the hearing, Prescott Loveland, Jenkins’ attorney, alerted the court that the prosecution offered Jenkins a deal, which required him to plead guilty to second-degree murder and assault with a dangerous weapon, in exchange for a dismissal of all other charges.

Through the agreement, the parties would have agreed to a sentencing range of 16-to-23 years.

However, Jenkins rejected the plea offer.

Parties are set to reconvene on Jan. 16, 2025.

‘No Doubt in My Mind,’ Says Judge as He Finds Probable Cause in a Homicide

On Feb. 27, DC Superior Court Judge Robert Okun found probable cause in a homicide case.

Juan Guerra, 31, is charged with second-degree murder for his alleged involvement in the fatal beating of 31-year-old Peter Miller III, which occurred on Oct. 6, 2023, on the 900 block of Maine Avenue, SW. Miller succumbed to his injuries on Oct. 11, 2023.

According to court documents, officers responded to the location for the report of a “natural” death, but were suspicious after arriving at the scene and immediately called homicide detectives.

Miller was located inside of the residence, which he shared with Guerra, and was transported to a local hospital in critical condition. Five days later, Miller was pronounced dead, and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (OCME) ruled that the homicide was due to blunt force trauma.

In the hearing, a detective from the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) testified about objects found in Guerra’s apartment, which allegedly were firearms, drugs, and a fake identification card with Guerra’s photo.

The prosecution argued that Guerra, Miller and a witness began shooting dice but the game started to get rowdy because Guerra and Miller started changing the rules.

After that, a witness who was friends with both Guerra and Miller left the apartment. The witness then got a call from Guerra, saying to go back to the apartment, and that is when he saw Miller laying face down on the couch. The witness then turned Miller around and noticed that he wasn’t breathing. They immediately called 911 and began performing CPR on Miller.

Guerra’s defense attorney, Kevin Mosley, argued that Miller was the main aggressor in this situation and therefore Guerra’s actions were in self-defense.

The prosecution claimed that this was “an assault turned homicide.” At the time of the incident, Guerra and Miller were the only individuals in the apartment.

The prosecution argued that Guerra showed a “conscious disregard” for Miller’s life, although he claimed that he acted out of self-defense.

Guerra had injuries that indicated he had been in a fight, but nothing close to the injuries Miller suffered, according to the prosecution.

Ultimately, the judge found probable cause. “No doubt in my mind that Guerra killed Miller,” said Judge Okun also stating he didn’t think he did it on purpose.

Judge Okun took into consideration Guerra’s history, the nature of the offense, and evidence when making the decision on whether he should be released on home confinement or remain detained.

Judge Okun ruled that Guerra remain detained.

Mosley requested that Guerra be transferred to the Correctional Treatment Facility (CTF) due to the fact that he has a chest injury and the jail conditions are inadequate for a full recovery. Judge Okun agreed, and recommended that he be moved to the CTF.

Parties are slated to return on June 7 for a status hearing.

Witness Confirms Path of Suspect Vehicle in 2020 Teen Homicide

On Feb. 28, GPS data and surveillance footage were introduced in a 2020 homicide case before DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt’s courtroom

Koran Jackson, 23, Tyiion Kyree Freeman, 24, and Stephen Nelson, 22, are three of five individuals charged with multiple counts of conspiracy, assault with the intent to kill while armed, first-degree murder 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. The shooting also left a second juvenile victim located in the vicinity suffering from an apparent gunshot wound to the right leg.

The prosecution’s first witness in this proceeding monitors stolen vehicles for Getaround, a mobile car rental app.

The witness was able to verify GPS data collected from a reported stolen rental from Feb. 27 to March 1 vehicle allegedly involved in Lukes’ shooting.

The prosecution used GPS data provided by the witness to place the stolen car at a BP gas station, located on the 3400 block of Georgia Avenue, NW, approximately one hour before the shooting. In their opening, the prosecution mentioned that video surveillance would place the defendants at the same BP gas station.

Using the same GPS data, the witness testified that the stolen vehicle’s GPS shows it driving through an alley on S Street, NW on the day and time of the shooting.

The final location the prosecution referenced, the 1800 block of Bruce Place, SE, was an address the vehicle visited on Feb. 28, Feb. 29, and March 1, which is alleged to belong to one of the defendants’ family members.

In cross examination, Freeman’s defense attorney, Andrew Ain, asked how Getaround would know a vehicle was stolen. The witness stated that Getaround needs a third party to allege a theft, which can be app users or police.

Ain followed up by asking, “Anyone could lie to you and tell you their car was stolen when it wasn’t and you’d have no way of knowing correct”?.

“Correct” the witness answered.

Ain then asked the witness if it was possible to calculate the average speed of the vehicle given some of the data he had mapped out on S Street. The witness said that while it was possible, it was “not always an accurate way to measure speed”.

Nevertheless, Ain had the witness calculate the average speed of the car and found that the longest the car could have stopped for was 19 seconds.

Similarly, Brian McDaniel, Jackson’s defense attorney, asked the witness if he could tell if the car had stopped at all from the data of S Street. The witness responded that he could not.

McDaniel asked the witness if because there were no records of the vehicle being rented on Feb. 27, had he ever found out how the vehicle was stolen. The witness claimed the only information he had was a lack of rental record on Feb. 27.

In their redirect, prosecution addressed asked the witness which third party had alerted Getaround that the vehicle was stolen. The witness replied it was the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

Prosecution then called a witness who used to reside in an apartment complex with security cameras located near the crime scene.

He explained that because the cameras installed were registered with DC’s camera rebate program, it was typical for an officer or detective to express interest in acquiring footage from the exterior cameras for investigative purposes.

The witness recalled being contacted by an officer on March 1, 2020, who was interested in footage within a 30 minute time frame, showing “four young Black males” walking in the area after Lukes’ shooting.

Prosecution played the surveillance footage, which depicted four individuals walking down a sidewalk together.

The witness confirmed the footage was accurate.

Trial is set to resume March 4.

Defense Accuses Prosecution of Destroying Homicide Case Evidence

On Feb. 28, DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan denied a defense motion to dismiss indictment charges against a murder defendant, following an accusation the prosecution destroyed evidence in the case.

Daquan Gray, 22, is charged with first-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and carrying a pistol without a license, for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 15-year-old Jaylyn Wheeler on May 16, 2018, at the 600 block of Alabama Avenue, SE

Gray, who was 16-years-old at the time of the incident, allegedly shot Wheeler and was tried as an adult.

At the hearing, Judge Raffinan stated that the Department of Forensic Services (DFS) “improperly handled evidence” when taking DNA samples from the firearm and magazine used in the shooting, and that a stipulation by both parties about how the information is was warranted.

Judge Raffinan advised all parties to “jointly draft a jury instruction” and reach a agreed approach to present to the jury regarding the mishandling of DNA evidence in this case.

Gray’s defense attorney, Dana Page, claimed that the prosecution “destroyed” DNA evidence, and she would disclose that in her stipulation.

That prompted concern from the prosecution on whether the parties would be able to draft a stipulation together.

“I think it is going to be difficult to agree on the wording of a stipulation,” the prosecution said. “I’m not hopeful we will reach an agreement.”

Judge Raffinan said both parties should stay away from using strong or characterizing language in their stipulations.

“It is a legal instruction but I would stay away from describing behavior or characterizations about what happened,” the judge said.

The judge said she would step in if the parties could not agree.

“If parties cannot agree, it can be briefed and we can discuss it in court,” the judge said. “I’ll direct both parties to reach a stipulation.”

Parties are slated to return on June 12.

Judge Revokes Probation for Homicide Defendant

On Feb. 29, DC Superior Court Judge Robert Okun revoked a homicide defendant’s probation based on his violation of release conditions.

On January 21, 2020, Adrian Vinson, 23, pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter for his involvement in the fatal shooting of 19-year-old Tahlil Byrd on Sept. 29, 2019, at the 600 block of S Street.

Vinson was originally sentenced to five years of incarceration with 18 months of supervised release for involuntary manslaughter.

When Vinson was placed on probation for 18 months, during his release, he allegedly violated the terms of probation by committing a new offense, causing him to be re-arrested on a Fugitive from Justice Charge, which is being handled in District Court.

In the hearing, the prosecution asked for an additional six months to be added to his manslaughter sentence and three years of supervised release, insisting he failed to comply with the conditions of his probation for the involuntary manslaughter charge. The prosecution mentioned that during his sentencing, Vinson was “given a gift” and “it should’ve been a wake-up call.”

The prosecution alerted the court that they are aware that if Vinson didn’t shoot first, Byrd would’ve probably shot him.

They alleged that Vinson made a rap career out of Byrd’s murder. The prosecution’s main concern was how Vinson showed a lack of remorse for his actions, and used his experience of murdering Byrd, for “clout.”

Vinson’s defense attorney, Douglas Wood, agreed that an additional six months to the original sentence and three years of supervised release was appropriate.

Judge Okun agreed with all parties and sentenced Vinson to six months of incarceration consecutively and three years of supervised release concurrently with the original sentence.

No further dates were set.

Judge Denies Homicide Defendant’s Release

On Feb. 28, DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan denied a homicide defendant’s request for release.

Tywan Morris, 28, is charged with second-degree murder while armed, carrying a dangerous weapon outside a home or business, and two counts of possession of a prohibited weapon, for his alleged involvement in the fatal stabbing of 27-year-old Danielle Stuckey on Oct. 17, 2021, at the 2800 block of Alabama Ave. SE.

Morris’ partner, Key Juan Sinclair, 26, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon, carrying a dangerous weapon outside a home or business, and two counts of possession of a prohibited weapon, for her alleged involvement in the stabbing.

According to court documents, Sinclair allegedly received the knife from Morris and began approaching the victim. Morris then took the weapon back from Sinclair and allegedly stabbed Stuckey.

At the status hearing, Morris’ defense attorney, Steven Kiersh, motioned for his release, arguing that Morris had received a recent offer of employment.

The defense said this offer, in addition to confirmation of his “good behavior” in a letter from the jail, is sufficient evidence to show that he can be compliant with release conditions.

“Morris has been in fairly good compliance with his conditions,” Kiersh said. “This letter represents not only good but exemplary conduct.”

The prosecution responded by stating that Morris was previously put on release for this case until the court found probable cause for his involvement in obstruction of justice when he allegedly “bribed” a witness not to come to court to testify.

According to the prosecution, the fact that probable cause was found in this indicates that “he has not been compliant.”

The prosecution stated that it should cause the court “deep concern” that the employment offer arrived just before the status hearing.

“The fact that this offer of employment came just before the hearing, despite him having been on release for years, shows timing that is notable,” the prosecution said.

Morris was re-arrested on Nov. 17, 2023, when prosecutors requested the judge revoke his release for alleged witness tampering in this case.

Kiersh responded by stating that video footage of the crime allegedly showed clear signs of self-defense, which convinced DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz to release Morris.

Kiersh also highlighted the domestic responsibilities Morris has, noting he and Sinclair share a child together.

“Morris being a father does not move the ball in terms of his defense, as this murder occurred in front of the [victim’s] young child,” the prosecution countered.

Judge Raffinan concluded that, because of Morris’ conspiracy and obstruction of justice charges, she would not be granting him release in this matter.

“In light of the probable cause of the obstruction of justice, even taking into consideration Morris’ good behavior at the jail and the new offer of employment, I am denying Morris’ request for release conditions,” the judge said.

Parties are slated to return on April 5.

‘You Deserve to Be Punished,’ Judge Says in Sentencing

On Feb. 28, DC Superior Court Judge Sean Staples sentenced a defendant to 72 months in prison with 5 years supervised release for her involvement in a 2023 non-fatal shooting.

Tiaquana Chandler, 42, was originally charged with conspiracy, first-degree burglary while armed, aggravated assault while armed, assault with significant bodily injury while armed, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and soliciting a violent crime for her involvement in a dispute that led to a shooting on March 28, 2023, on the 3400 block of 13th Place, SE.

On Nov. 6, 2023, Chandler was convicted of conspiracy, aggravated assault while armed, and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence. She was acquitted of all other charges.

Chandler’s son, Donnell Tucker, 27, was charged with one count of aggravated assault knowingly while armed, one count of burglary while armed, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, one count of threatening to kidnap or injure a person, and one count of conspiracy for his alleged involvement in the incident.

However, a jury acquitted Tucker of all charges on Jan. 31.

During the Feb. 28 hearing, the prosecution asked Judge Staples to impose the maximum sentence, emphasizing Chandler’s threat to the community. They added that she has shown “no acceptance of responsibility.”

Chandler’s defense attorney, Adrien Madsen, reminded Judge Staples that Chandler was not the one who physically pulled the trigger. He also discussed her new work experience and how she has been clean of drugs since the day of the incident.

Madsen asked Judge Staples to vacate the mandatory minimum sentencing requirement, and only sentence her to five years.

However, Judge Staples said to Chandler, “You need to be punished for the conduct you participated in.” He highlighted the severity of injuries caused to the victim and the violent nature of the crime.

Ultimately, Judge Staples sentenced Chandler to 72 months with 5 years supervised release. She will serve 60 months with 3 years supervised release for conspiracy, 72 months with 5 years supervised release for aggravated assault while armed, and 72 months with 3 years supervised release for possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, all of which will run concurrently.

She will also be required to register as a gun offender and pay $100 to the Victims of Violent Crimes Fund.

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