‘Uncooperative’ Shooting Defendant Fails to Appear in Court

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DC Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur delayed a case following a shooting defendant’s refusal to leave his cell at the DC Jail on Sept. 12. 

Desmond Barr, 23, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and unlawful possession of ammunition for his alleged involvement in a shooting on Feb. 6, 2023 on the unit block of M Street, NE. No injuries were reported. 

According to court documents, Barr and 25-year-old Shatia Penn, allegedly approached two victims sitting in a vehicle. An argument ensued and Penn is alleged to have asked one victim to exit the vehicle so they could fight. In response, the other victim began to drive away and Penn is alleged to have shot at the vehicle.

Penn and Barr were arraigned on seperate charges and both pleaded not guilty and asserted their constitutional rights, emphasizing a speedy trial.

Judge Arthur said Barr was “uncooperative” and refused to leave the jail to appear in court. The judge also denied defense attorney Lola Ziadie’s request for a nominal bond because the defendant picked up another charge while on release, which led to his detainment at the jail. 

Parties are set to reconvene on Sept. 19.