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By
Lexie Manning [former]
- October 26, 2023
Daily Stories
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Homicides
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Shooting
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Suspects
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Victims
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On Oct. 26, DC Superior Court Judge Marisa Demeo continued a jury trial in a first-degree murder case for two co-defendants.
Delonta Stevenson, 28, and Vorreze Thomas, 25 are both charged with first-degree murder while armed for their alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 32-year-old Terrance Allen on the 3000 block of Stanton Road, SE, on Jan. 18, 2021.
Howard McEachern, Thomas’ defense attorney, requested a continuance for the trial date based on health issues and gave his regrets saying he’s, “unable to give him the representation he needs right now.”
Before ruling, the judge asked the other parties in the court to comment. The prosecution explained they were “ready to move forward today, but defer to the court on the next steps.”
Thomas spoke directly to the judge and explained that he “was ready” for trial and that he is “tired” of waiting. After resting his head on the table, he exclaimed in frustration that he is “just sitting over in DC jail”.
Before making the decision, Judge Demeo explained how “there are circumstances that come up” and it will be a “better trial in terms of just results if everyone is in good health”.
Parties are expected back for a continued motions hearing on Nov. 8.
A trial date was set for January 2024.