Prosecution Says Defense Made ‘Bold Allegations’ in 30-Year-Old Murder Case

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During a felony arraignment on May 26, the prosecution argued the defense made “bold allegations” claiming the wrongful use of the defendant’s medical records and not providing him adequate healthcare.

William Ransford, 59, is charged with second-degree murder for allegedly killing 39-year-old Debra McManus, on Oct. 23, 1993 near Ballou High School. 

Defense attorneys Dana Page and Molly Bunke argued that the prosecution convinced the DC Jail to turn over confidential information regarding Ransford’s medical records and therefore violated the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). The defense then requested Ranford’s release and the dismissal of the case alleging misconduct by the prosecution.

“Release in this case is an appropriate remedy for the violations here,” the defense maintained.

The defense also requested Ransford be held at the Correctional Treatment Facility (CTF) as opposed to the DC Jail, as the defendant is allegedly not receiving proper medical care.

The prosecution, however, asserted that the defense’s argument was, “In fact untrue; it was simply a lie.” The prosecution continued to claim they never had any intention to use the defendant’s medical records.

DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan ruled that the prosecution did not violate HIPAA in this case and denied the request for the case’s dismissal. The judge, however, is not prepared to make a decision about Ransford’s release yet.  

The defense requested a status hearing, which is slated for Sept. 7 at 9:30 am.

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