Shooting Defendant Waives Right to Preliminary Hearing, Ordered Detained

By Ben Dickson , Hayden Clark - June 12, 2024
Daily Stories | Non-Fatal Shooting | Shooting | Suspects | Victims |

A shooting defendant waived the right to a preliminary hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Renee Raymond on June 12. 

Demarco Darrell Bates, 27, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon, possession of firearm during crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm for his alleged involvement in a shooting incident that occurred on April 10 on the 2700 block of Langston Place, SE. Two individuals sustained injuries from the incident. 

According to court documents, a bullet went through an apartment building, grazing a woman’s ankle, and another struck a Metro bus’ windshield, causing broken glass to imbed in the driver’s ear.

During the hearing, Cedric  Miller, Bates’ defense attorney, alerted Judge Raymond he waived his right to a preliminary hearing.  Miller also requested that Bates be released to home confinement, stating he wants to raise his children.

However, the prosecution objected to the request, stating that the nature and circumstances of the event prove he continues to be a danger to the community.  

Judge Raymond denied the request for release, finding that Bates is an “overwhelming danger” to the community and will be held without bond. She also issued a stay-away order from the victims. 

Parties are slated to return July 18.