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

By D.C. Witness Staff - October 28, 2019
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Suspects | Victims |

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.