Jonah Harris, 47, and Gerald Jones-Hall, 23, were arraigned by DC Superior Court Judge Robert Salerno on February 2, 2024. They are charged with conspiracy to rob and assault with intent to murder after two victims were shot during an attempted robbery on July 10, 2023, in the 1300 block of Good Hope Road, SE.

Not Guilty Pleas in Court Arraignment: Shooting Defendants (Photo from Center for American Progress)

Defendants Plead Not Guilty in Shooting Case: Prosecutors Stress Past Conviction and Firearm Allegations

Jones-Hall’s second-degree assault conviction was stressed by the prosecution during the hearing. They also said Jones-Hall was carrying a firearm in a bag during the incident.

Both defendants, represented by Janai Reed and Christen Romero Phillips, pleaded not guilty to all counts, invoking their constitutional rights to a speedy and jury trial.

Defense counsel Reed contended that Jones-Hall’s GPS tracking should be removed due to his release. However, prosecutors argued that his past conviction and the seriousness of the allegations prevented this. Given Jones-Hall’s criminal offenses, Judge Salerno doubted his cooperation.

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Shooting Defendants Plead Not Guilty, Cases Transferred to New Judge

Harris and Jones-Hall’s cases were moved to DC Superior Court Judge Michael O’Keefe due to the offense’s severity. The next court date is February 13.

Harris and Jones-Hall pleaded not guilty to gunshot and attempted robbery charges at their arraignment. The prosecution argued against Jones-Hall’s GPS tracking removal due to his criminal background. After being moved to another judge, the cases will be heard on February 13.

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