Grant Johnson pleaded not guilty Tuesday to charges including first-degree murder in connection with the death of Ricardo Lancaster.
The grand jury indicted Johnson on charges including first-degree murder while armed, armed robbery, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, unlawful possession of a firearm and carrying a pistol outside a home or business.
Police believe Johnson killed Lancaster to steal money and a cellphone May 31, 2012. Johnson, 37, has been in custody since his June 27, 2012 arrest. Police identified Johnson because they say they determined he made phone calls using Lancaster’s phone after the shooting.
Officers found Lancaster in the 800 block of Burns Street Southeast at about 6:53 a.m., unconscious and suffering from two gunshot wounds.
Judge William Jackson had ordered Johnson held after a July 2012 preliminary hearing.
Johnson is due to return to court April 12 at 10 a.m. for a status hearing.
A copy of the indictment is below:
