Three Co-Defendants Plead Not Guilty At Arraignment

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On Nov. 17, three co-defendants were arraigned on multiple charges and pleaded not guilty in a homicide case before DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt.

Demonte Gibson, 25, Tre’quan Nelson, 23, and Asani Forte, 26, are charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed, conspiracy, and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, among other charges, for their alleged involvement in the murder of 34-year-old Delonte King that occurred on Nov. 3, 2021, on the 2800 block of 14th Street, NW.

Through counsel, all three defendants pleaded not guilty and asserted their constitutional rights, emphasizing the right to a speedy trial.

Forte was originally charged with accessory after the fact and has been out on release. However, in light of the new charges, the prosecution stated that they intend to file a motion to modify Forte’s release.

A status hearing is set for Nov. 22 to discuss Forte’s modified bond.

Gibson and Nelson remain detained and are set to return to court on March 8 for a status hearing.

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