Prosecutors charge Edgar Arrington with a hate crime for the murder of transgender woman Daquane “Dream” Johnson in DC.
WASHINGTON — A man accused of killing a transgender woman in D.C. has been charged with a hate crime. The victim’s family said the hate crime enhancement was important to them, as it sends a message that those perpetuating hate and violence in DC will be held accountable.
28-year-old Daquane Johnson was better known as “Dream” to those that loved her. Johnson’s aunt, Vanna Terrell, said he niece was bold, hard working, and an advocate for the LGBTQ community.
“This wasn’t a secret, and that’s what we loved about her.” said Terrell
DC police said Johnson was shot and killed in the early hours of July 5th on the 2000 block of Benning Rd in Northeast D.C.
Court documents said the suspect, 38-year-old Edgar Arrington, was a stranger to Johnson, but was harassing her for being transgender.
“We broke down a couple of times in the courtroom. It was heartbreaking to hear some of the slurs that were thrown out there because of her identity,” said Terrell.
After following and harassing Johnson, Arrington allegedly pulled out a gun, shot, and killed her.
“How could you do that to a person? Like you have that much hate in your heart?”
Terrell said they were pushing for the hate crime charges because no one should lose their life simply because of who they are.
“I’m pretty sure she dealt with it every day of her life. But for somebody to just steal her peace and her life like that, all for nothing, it’s really heartbreaking.”
US Attorney Jeanine Pirro announced Arrington was charged with first degree murder while armed, with a hate crime enhancement. Arrington’s preliminary hearing is scheduled for Oct. 7.