Uncooperative Witness Delays Homicide Trial

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A witness’ refusal to testify before a jury in DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park’s courtroom interrupted the trial for more than 30 minutes on March 12.

Nyjell Outler, 22, is charged with first-degree murder premeditated while armed, assault with intent to kill while armed, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, and four counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in the murder of 21-year-old Demetris Johnson on March 20, 2021 at a gender reveal party on the unit block of Madison Street, NE. The incident also left another individual with injuries to both legs. All charges face an aggravating factor of allegedly being committed during Outler’s release in another matter.

Outler allegedly told the first witness information about the case when the pair was in jail in 2022. After accusing the prosecution of intimidation he stopped answering questions and simply sit in silence.

Judge Park excused the jury and witness to discuss how to proceed. Parties settled on reminding the witness that his only obligation was “to be truthful,” confronting his concern that the prosecution was looking for specific answers.

In the cross by Outler’s attorney, Thomas Key, the witness admitted that he fabricated the story told during his grand jury testimony in order to shorten his sentence. He testified that he had met Outler in jail, but that they did not share any information about their cases.

Parties are slated to reconvene on March 13.