Commonwealth Again Delays in Cornelius Williams Case; Next Hearing Set for September

The criminal case against Cornelius Ivey Williams, charged in connection with a May assault on Margaret Street in the North End, faced further delays this week as the Commonwealth was once again not ready to proceed with a probable cause hearing.

During Wednesday’s hearing before Judge James Coffey, prosecutors requested an extension, marking the second time they have been unprepared to move the case forward. Defense attorney actions included successful motions for investigative and psychological funding, while an oral motion to dismiss was denied. Williams also waived his statutory right to a 30-day continuance, and the court issued an order of “no further continuances” on at least one count.

Williams remains held without bail under a dangerousness order, but that order is set to expire on September 17, 2025 — the same date now scheduled for the rescheduled probable cause hearing. That proceeding will determine whether the case is bound over to Superior Court or faces potential dismissal if prosecutors are still unprepared.