Substantial Probability” in Case Against James Fields, Rules Leibovitz

Judge Lynn Leibovitz today found substantial probability in the case against James Fields, accused of fatally shooting Christopher Freeman in Southeast DC on August 5.

Freeman was one of two people shot in an ally in the 300 block of 34th Street Southeast at about 3 a.m. on Aug. 5. Detective William Covington said Friday that Freeman was shot at least seven times and was found dead at the scene.

Freeman’s friend was injured in the same shooting; he was shot once. The bullet went through his hand and shoulder and struck his face. He wasn’t able to speak with police because of his injuries, but in an interview wrote that “Jim did it.” He went on to describe a man whom police ultimately identified as Fields.

Fields’ attorney, Kia Sears, argued that darkness in the alley where the shooting occurred could have made it difficult for anyone to accurately identify someone.

Leibovitz, however, ruled that there was substantial probability in the case and ordered Fields held at least until his next court date. That appearance is a scheduled status hearing on Nov. 1.

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