Judge Reschedules Hearing to Give Counsel More Time to Prepare

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DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt rescheduled a preliminary hearing on Feb. 21, giving the parties more time to prepare.

A 68-year-old defendant is charged with first-degree sexual abuse by force and assault with a dangerous weapon for allegedly raping and stabbing an unknown victim. The incident occurred on Feb. 15 on the 4200 block of Clay Street, NE. 

During the hearing, defense attorney Todd Balwdin requested to continue the preliminary hearing in order to gather more evidence and possibly negotiate a plea offer. 

The prosecutor agreed and Judge Brandt ruled the hearing to continue at a later date. 

Judge Brandt also paused the case; however, she did not explain her reasoning for the pause.

The defendant is currently being held.

The parties are scheduled to return March 14 to continue the preliminary hearing.