Witness Issues Continue to Delay Murder Trial

By D.C. Witness Staff - July 17, 2019
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Suspects |

Before a murder trial begins, counselors told a DC Superior Court judge that they are still trying to secure witnesses.

Gary Proctor is charged with first-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, unlawful possession of firearm during a crime of violence, carrying a pistol outside a home or business and unlawful possession of ammunition for his alleged involvement in the death of his cousin, Jerome Diggs, 42. The crime occurred on the 1300 block of First Street, SW on July 27, 2015.

Judge Dayna Dayson said she expected opening statements would start July 17, but counsel is struggling to contact critical material witnesses.

Steven Kiersh, Proctor’s defense attorney, said he is waiting for a response from two witnesses. The prosecution is waiting for one more witness to respond. At this point counselors are concerned the witnesses will fail to show up to testify in the trial. 

Jury selection occurred on July 17. 

Opening statements for the trial are expected to begin on July 18, the courtroom’s law clerk told D.C. Witness.

 The prosecutor told the judge that, despite the slow start, he thinks the case will move faster that expected.