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By
D.C. Witness Staff
- July 16, 2019
Court
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Homicides
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Suspects
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A DC Superior Court judge ordered July 15 that a witness’s testimony be videotaped to preserve it for trial.
Taron Oliver is charged with first-degree murder for his alleged involvement in the
Nathaniel Williams
shooting of his step-father, Nathanial Williams. Williams, 41, was found in his home on the 3100 block of 20th Street, SE on July 18, 1995.
The prosecution informed Judge Craig Iscoe that the key witness is suffering from a severe infection that resulted from bed sores. A nurse, who is treating the witness, told the prosecutor that the infection is resistant to antibiotics and that the only treatment they could offer at this time is hospice care.
Judge Iscoe said that since, “death could come rather rapidly,” the testimony should be recorded to preserve it in case the witness is unable to testify at trial.
A previous article reported that the prosecution would be unable to move forward with the case without this witness’s testimony.
Defense counsel, David Benowitz, said that the witness’s condition, “doesn’t sound like life or death,” and would like to review the medical records before allowing the recorded testimony to be shown at trial, if need be. The prosecution presented the records to the defense and Judge Iscoe on July 15.
With the ruling, Benowitz requested that the prosecution cover the cost of the defendant and his counsel to travel to Georgia in order to have the opportunity to cross-examine at the deposition recording. Benowitz said this is an unexpected expense for his client.
Judge Iscoe requested the motion be filed in writing so the defense could explain why Oliver could afford to pay for an attorney but not for travel. However, Judge Iscoe noted that he anticipates approving the motion.
According to court documents, Williams had been arrested multiple times for assaulting the defendant’s mother. Witnesses also confirmed a history of domestic violence between the couple.
Prosecution also said that both parties are still negotiating a possible plea offer.
A trial readiness hearing is scheduled on Sept. 6.