WASHINGTON, D.C. — On July 11, D.C. Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt ruled against a defense motion to dismiss a murder case involving Darvin Banks, 43, who is accused of fatally shooting William Spriggs, 35, in Southeast Washington last year. The judge also denied a separate request for Banks’ pretrial release.
Fatal Shooting on Alabama Avenue
Banks is charged with first-degree murder while armed in connection with the May 22, 2024 shooting, which occurred in the 4800 block of Alabama Avenue SE. According to court records, Spriggs was pronounced dead at the scene.
Defense attorney Peter Fayne argued for the case to be dismissed, claiming a lack of probable cause and asserting that Banks acted in self-defense. However, Judge Brandt strongly disagreed.
Judge Cites Video, Eyewitness Testimony
Judge Brandt noted that two previous judges also found probable cause and dismissed the self-defense claim. She based her decision on a combination of video evidence, surveillance footage, and multiple eyewitness accounts.
One witness reportedly heard Banks say, “Ain’t no stopping this,” before opening fire on Spriggs—a statement that the court considered a clear indication of intent.
“The evidence—including Banks’ actions before, during, and after the shooting—supports a strong case against him,” Brandt said.
Defense Seeks Release Based on Limited Criminal Record
Fayne also argued for Banks’ release pending trial, citing his client’s limited criminal history and again insisting the act was one of self-defense. He emphasized that Banks had not been previously convicted of a violent felony and suggested that the charges did not justify continued detention.
Prosecution: Threat to Public and Witnesses
The prosecution firmly opposed the motion for release, pointing to Banks’ troubling behavior both before and during his incarceration. Prosecutors alleged that while in jail in April 2025, Banks was involved in a violent stabbing that nearly killed another inmate.
Additionally, the government expressed concerns about witness intimidation, claiming that one eyewitness has already felt threatened by Banks and fears retaliation if he is released.
“There is a clear pattern of dangerous behavior,” prosecutors stated. “Allowing Banks to return to the community presents an unacceptable risk.”
Judge Brandt agreed, concluding that Banks remains a danger to the public and to key witnesses in the case. She denied the request for release, keeping Banks in custody as the case proceeds.
Next Court Date Set
The parties are scheduled to reconvene on August 14 for the next phase of proceedings. Banks remains held without bond as he awaits trial on the first-degree murder charge.
The court continues to emphasize the importance of protecting witnesses and upholding public safety while navigating the legal process.
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