Stabbing Defendant Found Competent to Stand Trial

By Laura Berol - June 7, 2024
Daily Stories | stabbing | Suspects |

Based on a report from the DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH), DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt found Cristian Martinez competent to stand trial at a hearing on June 7.

Martinez, 18, is charged with assault with intent to kill while armed for allegedly stabbing another man in the neck on March 17. The incident occurred in the backyard of the victim’s apartment building on the 1700 block of Lamont Street, NW. 

At the time of his arrest, Martinez told Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officers that he attacked the victim because he saw the victim enter an alley alone, according to court documents. The officers reported that Martinez admitted to wanting to kill the victim, and mentioned previously hearing voices.

Lawyers for both sides told Judge Brandt that they are currently negotiating a plea deal. The prosecutor said he will place the plea offer on the record at the next hearing.

Alvin Thomas, Martinez’s attorney, asked Judge Brandt to release Martinez to home confinement so that Martinez can seek treatment at the Psychiatric Institute of Washington (PIW). Judge Brandt directed Thomas to file the motion in writing.

Parties are slated to reconvene on July 15.