Systems Error Results in Judge Adjusting Homicide Defendant’s Trial Date

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Due to a court systems error, DC Superior Court Judge Milton Lee adjusted a homicide defendant’s trial date from May 30, 2023, to Nov. 13, 2023. 

Roger Hamilton, 41, has been charged with second-degree murder, driving under the influence, and reckless driving for allegedly striking and killing 42-year-old Vincent Childs with a vehicle. According to court documents, Hamilton was allegedly operating a 2006 Mercury Mountaineer while under the influence of alcohol. On March 2, 2018, Hamilton’s vehicle mounted a curb and fatally struck Childs on the 3200 Block of Wheeler Road, SE. 

Judge Lee also issued a scheduling order July 27 to construct a timeline for motions filing and deadlines. 

The prosecutor said there is a potential for a plea deal but are still continuing negotiations with the defense.

“I think we still have the possibility of productive conversation, but at this point I have nothing to present to the court,” the prosecutor said. 

Defense attorney Neveen Hammad stood in for Joseph Scrofano to represent Hamilton. 

Hamilton is scheduled for s trial readiness hearing on Oct. 13, 2023.