Defendant Pleads Guilty but Sentencing Postponed

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On June 23, sentencing for a defendant was rescheduled to allow the defense more time to review the case and prepare for sentencing, that despite an existing guilty plea.

Donyell Miller, 24, pleaded guilty on March 23 to one count of aggravated assault and one count of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his involvement in a carjacking incident that occurred on Sept. 16, 2021 on the 2100 block of Benning Road, NE. During the incident, Miller fired a gun, injuring one individual.

Defense attorneys asked for a continuance, and as a part of their review, they plan on having Miller evaluated by a mental health expert, but one has not been chosen yet.

The defense hopes to schedule an evaluation within the next month, but prosecutors believe it is unnecessary since Miller is facing significant jail time and has already pleaded guilty.

DC Superior Court Judge Robert Okun granted the request to reschedule the sentencing, because he is not confident the expert evaluation will be done before the assigned date.

Judge Okun has denied further continuances requested by the defense.

Sentencing has been rescheduled to Aug. 25.