Shooting Defendant Waives Right to Independent DNA Testing

By Gelela Tesfaye [former] , Shea Carlberg [former] - July 5, 2024
Daily Stories | Non-Fatal Shooting | Victims |

A shooting defendant waived his right to test DNA evidence recovered from a crime scene in a July 3 hearing, before DC Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur. 

Adrian Lee, 49, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting that occurred on April 18, 2023, on the 700 block of Gresham Place, NW. One individual sustained injuries during the incident. 

During the hearing, Lee waived his right to test evidence, including clothing and a cellphone, for DNA. 

Judge Arthur reminded Lee that, if he waives his right, he will not be able to request to test the evidence at a later date. 

According to court documents, the victim was sideswiped while driving a Tesla Model Y by a woman connected to Lee. She claimed Lee provided an insurance card but it was expired. The victim drove after Lee, who fled the scene on foot. Lee then allegedly shot the victim in the abdomen.

Prosecutors plan to introduce statements about the defendant’s texts and phone ownership. Albert Amissah, Lee’s defense attorney, alerted the court he had not received evidence in the case from the prosecution. They are slated to share it with Amissah before trial.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene July 11.