Judge Lets Stabbing Defendant Get New Attorney

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DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park granted a defendant’s request for a new defense attorney during a felony status conference on June 25. 

Michael Burke, 45, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal stabbing of the victim during a street fight on the 1700 block of Rhode Island Avenue, NE on April 16. 

Burke requested his current defense attorney, Martin Rosendorf, be removed stating that his constitutional rights were being violated. 

Judge Park granted Burke’s request for new counsel but warned that he will be less inclined to do so again in the future. 

Judge Park also ordered Burke to sign up for DC Pretrial Services and complete a psychological assessment, necessary to expedite the appointment of a new lawyer.

Burke is scheduled to return to court on July 8 for the assessment and July 11 for a status hearing.