Judge Sentences Homicide Defendant to 10 Years In Prison Following Denial of Motion to Withdraw Plea

By Aubree Tomasetti [former] - September 25, 2023
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Shooting | Suspects | Victims |

On Sept. 22, DC Superior Court Judge Anthony Epstein denied homicide defendant Mohamed Goodwin’s motion to withdraw a guilty plea in connection to a 2020 homicide.

Goodwin, 35, was originally charged with first-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence and carrying a pistol without a license for his involvement in the fatal shooting of 25-year-old Devonte Wilson. The incident occurred on Dec. 3, 2020, on the 700 block of Morton Street, NW. 

On Jan. 30, Goodwin pleaded guilty to second-degree murder while armed in exchange for a dismissal of all other charges. 

On June 23, in what was supposed to be his sentencing, Goodwin requested to withdraw his guilty plea. The motion filed by Goodwin’s defense attorney stated that Goodwin continued to insist the shooting was in self defense.  

On Aug. 18, Judge Epstein denied the motion to withdraw the guilty plea. 

During the Sept. 22 hearing, parties agreed to sentence Goodwin to voluntary manslaughter. 

Judge Epstein sentenced Goodwin to 10 years, with credit for time served. He is expected to remain incarcerated for seven years. 

In addition, Goodwin must serve five years on supervised release, register as a gun offender, and pay $100 to the Victims of Violent Crime Fund.  

No victim impact statement was given, but the prosecution did say Wilson’s family was, “Not enamored with the plea agreement.” 

During the sentencing, it was emphasized by the prosecution that Wilson did not act violently towards Goodwin, and Judge Epstein expressed his disbelief at how this seemed out of character for Goodwin. 

“I am remorseful for what happened,” Goodwin said.