DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan made a “difficult decision” to release a murder defendant from incarceration on Nov. 5.
Jordan Battle, 24, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed, second-degree cruelty to children grave risk while armed, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence and obstructing justice.
The charges are in connection to his alleged involvement in the murder of 18-year-old Terrell Oliver at the 2600 block of Stanton Road, SE on Dec. 18, 2024. The defendant’s alleged actions also posed a grave risk of bodily injury to a three-year-old.
“I’ve found it to be one of the more difficult decisions I’ve made,” Judge Ryan stated in court that Battle would be released from jail.
Judge Ryan noted that one of the primary reasons was the nature of the defendant’s relationship with the victim. Safety of the community is an important consideration whether to release a defendant, and Judge Ryan explained that since the defendant and victim knew each other, there was a reduced likelihood for the Battle to commit a random shooting upon his release.
Judge Ryan stated that one of the other key factors that swayed his decision was the “relatively fabulous” release package put together by defense attorney Kevin O’Sullivan.
The conditions outlined that Battle will have to adhere to home confinement with GPS monitoring, and a stay away order from the DC area and, specifically, the Washington View neighborhood. The only reasons Battle can enter DC are to satisfy his Pretrial Services Agency (PSA) requirements, or to meet with O’Sullivan for trial related matters. Battle will also be permitted to attend church on Sundays with the family he will be staying with.
“You should understand it’s very difficult to release someone with the severity of these charges,” Judge Ryan spoke directly to Battle. “It’s very important that you comply with these conditions of release”.
Parties are set to reconvene on Dec. 11.
