Shooting Defendant Pleads Not Guilty, Questions Investigator’s Credibility

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A shooting defendant pleaded not guilty to all charges before DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan on Sept. 9, as she ordered the prosecution to turn ov r all discovery, including a document that could impeach the lead detective’s testimony.  

Anthony Goncalves, 51, is charged with assault with intent to kill while armed against a minor, aggravated assault knowingly while armed against a minor, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a convict, for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting that occurred on Nov. 29, 2023, on the 3900 block of Minnesota Avenue, NE. A 14-year-old boy sustained life-threatening injuries from the incident. 

Christen Philips, Goncalves’ attorney, alerted the court of his intent to plead not guilty to all charges, and asserted his constitutional rights, including the right to a speedy trial.

She requested all Brady material, meaning evidence that can potentially exonerate the defendant, be turned over, including a Giglio form, which may establish that a police offer’s testimony lacks credibility

According to Philips, a potential for bias exists resulting from “racially insensitive memes” allegedly posted by the lead detective.

Parties are slated to reconvene Nov. 19.