Judge ‘Extremely Troubled’ by Jail Calls, Sentenced Shooting Defendant to 15 Months  

By Carmen Quinteros [former] - June 7, 2024
Daily Stories | Shooting | Suspects |

After multiple “disturbing” jail calls to a victim, a shooting defendant was sentenced to 15 months of incarceration by DC Superior Court Judge Jennifer Di Toro on June 7. 

Christopher Rodgers, 46, was originally charged with assault with a dangerous weapon, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm for his involvement in a shooting on Feb. 14, on the 2700 block of Naylor Road, SE. There were no injuries reported. 

According to court documents, the victims, whom Rodgers attempted to shoot, included his girlfriend and her children who lived with him. Rodgers shoved his girlfriend in the face and stated “I’ve got something for you,” while holding a firearm, before shooting multiple times. 

Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officers found two handguns and one rifle at the residence, according to court documents. 

On April 10, Rogers accepted a plea offer that reduced his charges to attempted assault with a dangerous weapon and unlawful possession of a firearm. In return, the prosecution did not seek an indictment.

On June 7, the prosecutor requested Rodgers be sentenced to two years of incarceration. 

Stephen LoGerfo, Rodgers’ defense attorney, requested that his client be sentenced to one year and one day, citing the lack of significant criminal history, and added Rodgers has a lot of family support, but could benefit from alcohol treatment.  

Rodgers addressed the court saying “sorry for all the trouble I caused or whatever. Thank you.”

Judge Di Toro stated she was “extremely troubled by all the jail calls,” made by Rodgers in an attempt to bar his girlfriend and her children from testifying in court. 

They were “not subtle, disturbing, and inappropriate,” Judge Di Toro  insisted.

She acknowledged Rodgers limited criminal history, but highlighted the fact that all of the offenses he does have involved firearms. 

Rodgers was ultimately sentenced to 15 months of incarceration and will get credit for the four months he has served. 

Upon release, he will serve three years of supervised release, be required to register as a gun offender in DC, and will pay $200 to the Victims of Violent Crime Fund (VVCF). 

In addition, he will be required to receive alcohol treatment and be evaluated for any other mental health issues. 

No additional dates were set.