Plea Deal Lets Killer ‘Get Away With Murder,’ Aunt Says

A DC Superior Court judge agreed Oct. 25 to a 15-year sentence for a murder defendant.

Malik Morris, 20, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder while armed and assault with intent to kill for shooting Randall Francis, 20, on the 1800 block of Benning Road, NE on Nov. 26.

“As pained as Mr. Francis’ family is, this brings finality to the case,” said Judge Ronna Beck.

Judge Beck sentenced Morris to fifteen years in prison for second-degree murder while armed and seven years for assault with intent to kill. The sentences will be served concurrently.

Judge Beck said that while she did not know Francis, she “felt a loss from not having gotten to know him.”

Judge Beck said she would accept the plea against the wishes of Francis’ family in part to bring finality to the case.

“Obviously this case can be characterized by the incredible sadness,” she said. “It really is incomprehensible.”

Even so, Judge Beck said the sentence was justified because the homicide was Morris’ first encounter with the criminal justice system, and he accepted responsibility at the earliest opportunity.

“He’s getting away with murder,” said Francis’ aunt during her victim impact statement. “If I could get away with murder the way he is today, he would be my first victim.”

Fourteen victim impact statements were given by Francis’ friends and family during the sentencing. They all urged the judge to reject the deal.

“I have friends and family that got more than 15 years for drugs,” said Francis’ mother during her victim impact statement. “I believe in a second chance, but that’s not enough. It’s not right.”

The prosecutor argued that while no prison term could possibly change what Morris did, the plea deal avoids the risks of a trial.

“You can never provide satisfaction,” the prosecutor said. “But the plea agreement forces the defendant to accept responsibility.”

During sentencing the courtroom was filled with the victim’s friends and family, many of whom were in tears throughout the proceeding.

“My son had a future,” said Francis’ mother. “He loved everyone and he just wanted to live. He loved living.”

Morris’ motive for killing Francis is unknown, according to Judge Beck, the prosecutor, and Francis’ family.

Document: Homicide on R Street, SE

The Metropolitan Police Department is currently investigating a fatal shooting that occurred on Oct. 26.

According to a press release, officers found 28-year-old Johnathan Mayrant suffering from multiple gunshot wounds on the 1700 block of R Street, SE. Mayrant was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Police are offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information that leads to an arrest and conviction in this homicide or any other homicide in DC. Anyone with information is asked to call the police at 202-727-9099. Anonymous information may be submitted to the department’s Text Tip Line — 50411.

Document: Homicide on East Capitol Street, NE

The Metropolitan Police Department is investigating a fatal shooting that occurred on the 4200 block of East Capitol Street, NE.

According to a press release, officers located 22-year-old, Aaron George suffering from multiple gunshot wounds on Oct. 26. Aaron was pronounced dead on the scene.

The department is offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information that leads to an arrest and conviction in this homicide or any homicide in Washington, DC. Anyone with information can call the police at 202-727-9099. Anonymous information may be submitted to the department’s Text Tip Line — 50411.

Convicted Murderer Maintains Innocence During Sentencing

Even though a man, who was convicted of two murders, continued to say that he did not commit either crime, a judge sentenced him Oct. 25 to 52 years in prison.

Terik McLeod was found guilty July 26 for killing a man and a minor. McLeod, 33, was found guilty of second-degree murder while armed for shooting Devaun Drayton, 17, on the 700 block of 26th Street, NE in 2004. McLeod was also found guilty of first-degree murder while armed with aggravating circumstances for shooting Carlton Fisher, 23, on the 1100 block of 21st Street, NE in 2006. The first trial resulted in a hung jury after nearly two weeks of jury deliberations.

“I’d like to apologize to the families but I ain’t do it,” McLeod said. “They really don’t care about justice. They just care about a conviction.”

Fisher’s teenage daughter gave a victim impact statement during the sentencing, noting that her father had been killed before her first birthday.

“When my father was killed a part of me was killed too,” she said.

Fisher’s daughter also presented a poster she made to the court, which was covered with photographs of her father.

According to the prosecution, McLeod killed Fisher, who was shot seven times, because he was a witness testifying for the prosecution in the Drayton case.

The prosecution requested that McLeod be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

“If there is any type of conduct we must deter it is conduct where someone goes after a witness,” said the prosecutor.

McLeod’s actions set off “an innumerable series of violence,” said the prosecutor. “He was actively out in the community using those firearms against members of the community.”

One of McLeod’s defense attorneys argued that his client should have an opportunity for rehabilitation.

“He’s going to do a significant amount of time and there’s no doubt that he deserves it,” said Michael Madden, McLeod’s defense attorney. “He does not need to be locked away, caged for the rest of his life.”

DC Superior Court Judge Ronna Beck said the only reason she didn’t give McLeod a life sentence was because of his youth at the time of the crimes.

McLeod was 18 and 20, respectively when the crimes were committed. Judge Beck said his brain was not fully developed at that age.

“It is certainly my view that Mr. McLeod is not someone who can be returned to the community until he is much, much older,” Judge Beck said.

D.C. Witness previously reported that according to the prosecution McLeod killed Drayton over a stolen firearm.

“I don’t have enough words to give you to tell you how much I miss him,” said Drayton’s younger brother during his victim impact statement.

Judge Beck sentenced McLeod to 14 years in prison for Drayton’s murder and 38 years for Fisher’s. She ordered that the sentences be served consecutively. According to DC Courts, McLeod received credit for time served.

After completing his prison term, he is required to serve five years of supervised release after his prison term.

“If you murder a witness who’s cooperating with the government you can expect to spend most, if not all, of your life in jail,” said Judge Beck.

Murder Defendant Pleads Not-Guilty to Nine Felony Charges

A murder defendant entered a plea of not-guilty to nine felony charges.

Barry Marable is charged with first-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, assault with intent to kill while armed, assault with intent to kill, carrying a pistol without a license, unlawful posession of ammunition and posession of an unregistered firearm. Marable, 23, allegedly shot Roger Marmet, 22, at a BP gas station on the 1200 block of 17th Street, NE on Oct. 24, 2018.

During an arraignment on Oct. 25, Marable pleaded not-guilty to all charges after a plea deal could not be reached with prosecution.

D.C Witness previously reported that,in early October, a plea deal was reached but then revoked after Marable did not agree with the events that took place on the night of the murder.

Marable’s defense counsel, Anthony Matthews, told D.C Superior Court Judge Craig Iscoe that he anticipated a two week long jury trial.

The trial is set to start on Dec. 12.

Murder Defendant Rejects Plea Offer in 15-year-old’s Death

A murder defendant rejected a plea offer at a status hearing on Oct. 25.

Daquan Gray,17, is charged with first-degree murder while armed,possession of a firearm during a crime of violence and carrying a pistol without a license. Gray allegedly shot Jaylyn Wheeler, 15, on the 600 Block of Alabama Avenue, SE on May 16.

During a status hearing, Gray’s counsel, Dana Page, told a judge that defense was rejecting a plea deal offered from prosecution.

The conditions of the plea deal were not discussed in court.

D.C Witness previously reported that Gray and the prosecution had been in plea negotiations for the last two months.

Page told DC Superior Court Judge Craig Iscoe that the defense has not decided if there will be independent testing.

A status hearing is scheduled on Jan. 10

Judge Dismisses Murder Defendant’s Charges

During a felony status hearing Oct. 25 a murder defendant’s charges were dismissed.

Antonio Booze 46, is charged with second-degree murder for allegedly shooting Eugene Johnson, 37, on the Unit block of Galveston Place, SW on Nov. 11 2018.

The prosecution had nine months to get a grand jury indictment, which expired on Sept. 30. However, D.C. Witness previously reported that DC Superior Court Judge Juliet McKenna granted a 30-day extension,

The prosecution said there was still no indictment on file for Booze so Judge Mckenna proceeded to dismiss Booze of his second – degree murder charge.

Judge McKenna also removed Booze from the high intensity supervision program.

Document: Traffic Fatality Results in Homicide Charge

On Oct. 24, a pedestrian was killed in a traffic accident on the 3900 block of East Capitol Street, SE.

According to a MPD press release, a pedestrian was crossing from the south side of the 3900 block of East Capitol Street, Southeast to the north side, outside of a marked crosswalk. While the pedestrian was in the roadway, a grey in color sedan that was traveling eastbound on East Capitol Street, Southeast struck the pedestrian as she was crossing the outbound lane of travel. The driver of the striking vehicle fled the scene. Responding officers were able to locate the vehicle and the suspect was apprehended.

DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services responded to the scene and transported the pedestrian to an area hospital for severe injuries. After all life-saving efforts failed, the pedestrian was pronounced dead.

The decedent has been identified as a 15 year-old Amoni Richardson, of Southeast, DC.

On Thursday, October 24, 2019, a 17 year-old juvenile male, of Northeast, DC, was arrested and charged with Murder Two.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is requested to contact the Metropolitan Police Department at (202) 727-9099.

Defense Plans to Call Psychologist in Child Murder Case

The defense attorney for a mother accused of murdering her 16-month-old daughter said he planned to call a forensic psychologist to testify during trial.

Faneshia Scott is charged with first-degree murder and child cruelty for her alleged role in the death of her daughter, Rhythm Fields, on the 5400 block of C Street, SE in 2017. Scott, 33, is currently confined to her home under the High Intensity Supervision Program (HISP). She is also required to wear a GSP monitor.

Defense attorney Steven Kiersh and the prosecution said Oct. 24 that they plan to call a number of expert witnesses. Counsel did not specify exactly how many witnesses would be called during the trial.

The prosecutor also said she would call a child psychologist and a Drug Enforcement Administration Agent.

The D.E.A. agent would testify about a bottle found at the crime scene which contained cough syrup.

According to Scott’s indictment, she “intentionally, knowingly and recklessly” tortured and beat her daughter.

D.C. Superior Court Judge Milton Lee noted that given the number of expert witnesses and documents involved in this case, the attorneys need to be conscious of disclosure deadlines.

“This can’t be an unending process,” said Judge Lee. “There has to be a fixed date somewhere.”

He also warned that he may not allow testimony from any witnesses announced too close to the trial date, which is set in May of 2020.

Judge Lee said he plans to set a deadline for expert witness notice at Scott’s next status hearing, which is scheduled on Dec. 17.

Document: Homicide on 21st Street, NE

The Metropolitan Police Department is currently investigating a fatal shooting that occurred on Oct. 24.

According to a press release, officers found 32-year-old Alie Labay suffering from multiple gunshot wounds on the 900 block of 21st Street, NE. Labay was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.

The suspect in this case has been identified as 30 year-old Gregory Antwan Washington. Washington is described as 5’9” tall and weighs approximately 150 lbs. He is currently wanted on a DC Superior Court arrest warrant for First Degree Murder While Armed. He can be seen in the photo below:

The Metropolitan Police Department currently offers a reward of up to $25,000 to anyone that provides information which leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for any homicide committed in the District of Columbia. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call the police at 202-727-9099. Additionally, anonymous information may be submitted to the department’s TEXT TIP LINE by sending a text message to 50411.

Document: Arrest Made in February Homicide

Officers from the Metropolitan Police Department apprehended Oct. 24 a man for the murder of another man in Northeast, DC in February.

According to a press release, 21-year-old Matthew Walker, a resident of Northeast, DC, is charged with first-degree murder while armed for allegedly shooting 32-year-old David Anthony Remen. The shooting occurred on the 1700 block of Hamlin Street, NE on February 14, 2019.

Document: Homicide on Alabama Avenue, SE

The Metropolitan Police Department is currently investigating a fatal shooting that occurred on Oct. 23.

According to a press release, officers found 19-year-old Alvin Barnes suffering from a gunshot wound on the 2200 block of Alabama Avenue, SE. Barnes was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Judge Ponders New Counsel Appointment

On Oct. 23, A DC Superior Court judge said he is considering whether or not to appoint a public defender as co-counsel in a murder case because of a possible conflict of interest.

Master Matthew Thomas is charged with felony murder while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for allegedly shooting 59-year-old Chijioke Agbakahi on the 5100 block of Georgia Avenue, NW. Thomas, 33, is also charged with first and second-degree murder in Prince George’s County, Md.

DC Superior Court Judge Craig Iscoe said he may appoint Jessica Willis, who is with the public defender’s service, to Thomas’ case. However, Thomas is currently being represented by Heather Pinckney, who is a Criminal Justice Act attorney, and Sellano L. Simmons, who has a private law firm in the District.

Judge Iscoe said he was not sure if the appoint of the public defender would create a conflict of interest when paired with other two attorneys who are representing Thomas.

Judge Iscoe said if there is no conflict of interest with the public defender and the CJA attorney being co-counsel, Willis would be appointed immediately.

“I’m just sorry that I’m not going to be on this case because I find it to be very interesting,” Judge Iscoe said. His felony calendar term will be over in December.

Willis would to assist the defense in responding to the prosecution’s use ballistics evidence of the crime scene.

The defense said they were no longer prepared to proceed with the case at the next motion hearing scheduled on Nov 4, requesting more time. Another motions hearing has not been scheduled as of Oct. 23.

Pinckney has until Jan. 3, 2020 to file any motions on any ballistic evidence issues.

The case is scheduled for a jury trial in May of 2021.

Thomas is being held without bail.

Homicides in Last 3 Months Nearly Half the Amount of Murders in First 6 Months of 2019

Gun-related homicides from July 1 to Sept. 30 totaled nearly half of the number of homicides that occurred in the first half of the year.

According to D.C. Witness data, there were 61 gun-related homicides from Jan. 1 to June 30. There were 41 homicides from July 1 to Sept. 30.

During the first three months of 2019, there were 28 gun-related homicides in DC, according to D.C. Witness data. From April to June, gun-related homicides increased to 34.

There have been 52 homicides in total from July to September, according to D. C. Witness data. In July there were 20 homicides, 18 of which were gun related; August had 17 homicides, nine of which were gun related; and there were 15 homicides in September, 14 were gun related.

In an effort to reduce gun-related crime, the Metropolitan Police Department collected 425 guns from July to September. There were 160 recoveries in July, 140 in August and 145 in September.

Of the four quadrants in the district, Southeast and Northeast had the most gun recoveries. Police recovered 184 guns in Southeast, DC; 118 guns in Northeast and 11 guns in Southwest. Northwest had the least amount of recoveries, resulting in only six firearms.

D.C. Witness previously reported, the police department collected 333 firearms from April 1 to June 30. The department collected 448 firearms were collected from Jan. 1 through March 31.

The DC Council passed a law that temporarily seizes guns, the red flag law, in December of 2018.The law is being used as a broader gun control package, reported the Washington City Paper.

The law allows residents to report a person, who they believe is a danger to themselves or others and are in possession of one or more firearms. The police are then able to confiscate the firearms from that individual for a temporary time frame.

Eighteen states have implemented the red flag law, including California, Connecticut, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, Maryland, and the District of Columbia.

Judge Sentences Murderer to 10 Years for Fatal Stabbing

A judge sentenced Oct. 23 a murder defendant to ten years in prison for killing a young woman.

Deangelo Thorne, 29, pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter while armed in July for stabbing 23-year-old Waliyatou Amadou on the 1400 block of W St., NW on Jan. 8, 2017. He was initially charged with second-degree murder while armed.

“There is a certainty of conviction by plea opposed to uncertainty of trial,” said DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman.

Judge Edelman said he accepted the plea deal because, even though he wanted to sentence Thorne to more than ten years in prison, he would have to put the case back in pre-trial, which would have taken longer to get a conviction.

However, the amount of time of the conviction did not sit well with Amadou’s family.

“Ten years,” said Amadou’s brother. “Is that all a life is worth?”

The brother told the court how much pain he had been in since the loss of his sister.

The brother said he went to look for Thorne after the stabbing and considered taking the law into his own hands. However, he had faith in the justice system and remained nonviolent.

“The pain, the loss, the guilt I feel inundates me,” he said

Thorne’s defense attorney, Matthew Davies, asked Judge Edelmn to accept the plea deal and requested that he recommend placing Thorne at Federal Medical Center Butner, a federal medical prison in North Carolina.

Davies said Thorne has struggled with mental health issues all his life and placement at Butner would help him recover.

According to court documents, Amadou’s death was the result of a dispute between her and Thorne. Amadou was found in the laundry room of an apartment building with multiple stab wounds. There is no evidence that suggests Thorne and Amadou were in a romantic relationship.

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