Parties Deliver Closing Statements in Longstanding Homicide Case

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Parties delivered closing statements for a homicide trial on Jan. 30, before DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman.

Ethan Cunningham, 22, is charged with two counts of felony murder while armed, assault with intent to kill while armed, first-degree burglary while armed, five counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, carrying a pistol without a license outside the home, and attempted robbery while armed. The charges stem from his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 38-year-old James Curtis on the 2600 block of Stanton Road, SE on May 10, 2022.

On Jan. 23, prosecutors dismissed four charges – one count of felony murder while armed, kidnapping while armed, and two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence.

To make their case, the prosecution showed photos of the victim, and emphasized that Curtis should be alive with his family, highlighting the tragedy that Curtis’ family endured from urging the jury to look at all the evidence, and find Cunningham guilty of all charges.

Cunningham’s attorney, Thomas Healy, focused on the importance of the evidence presented. He argued that while evidence is necessary, it “must also be sufficient” to have reasonable certainty.

Healy urged the jury to look at the evidence skeptically, implying that there were some discrepancies in the prosecutor’s argument. Healy insisted if there is any doubt, the jury must acquit Cunningham.

Parties are slated to reconvene when the jury returns a verdict.