Defendant Chooses to be Released After Considering Repercussions

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During a probation show cause hearing on March 24, DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt terminated a defendant’s probation, leading to his release. 

Samuel Felton, 26, is charged with first-degree burglary while armed and assault with intent to kill while armed for robbing and firing a shot at a couple. The offense occurred in a residence on April 6, 2018, on the 4600 block of Livingston Road, SE. A one-year-old child was also in the residence at the time of the shooting. No one was shot.

During the hearing, the prosecutor said Felton was on release when he committed another gun offense, requesting the judge revoke Felton’s probation.

Judge Brandt said she would either revoke or terminate probation. A termination means the probation is unsuccessful, but the defendant would be released as opposed to serving the rest of his sentence.

Judge Brandt asked Felton if he would like to return to prison for the remainder of his sentence, or have his probation terminated.

Felton chose the termination route, saying he would have a difficult time finding a job.

Felton was released on March 24.