On June 13, Steven G. Colin the defense lawyer for Richard J. Johnson, argued that Seroquel, a powerful antipsychotic, impacted his client’s awareness and understanding about the impact of pleading guilty.
Johnson, 33, was originally charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting that occurred on Dec. 24, 2022 on the 900 block of M Street, NW.
On March 3, Johnson pleaded guilty to one count of assault with a dangerous weapon and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence after prosecutors extended a plea deal.
According to the National Institutes of Health, quetiapine which is known under the brand name Seroquel, can have adverse effects including feeling sleepy, dizzy, or groggy.
Based on witness and victim statements, the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) identified Johnson as the shooter.
In light of the defense’s claim, DC Superior Court Judge Heidi Pasichow granted Johnson a month to decide whether to withdraw the guilty plea or continue sentencing.
The next hearing is scheduled for July 14.
