Judge Tells Defendant ‘You’re Attracted to Guns,’ Sentences Him to 30 Months

By Elizabeth Bernstein , Elizabeth Brady - September 30, 2024
Daily Stories | Non-Fatal Shooting | Suspects |

On Sept. 27, DC Superior Court Judge Heidi Pasichow sentenced a defendant to 30 months in prison for a non-fatal shooting, stating, “It’s not like you’re attracted to football. You’re attracted to guns.”

Tyequan Taylor, 28, pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon and unlawful discharge of a firearm for his involvement in a non-fatal shooting on Aug. 22, 2023, on the 500 block of Taylor Street, NW. No injuries were reported. 

The prosecution requested Judge Pasichow sentence Taylor to 30 months because of the “callous nature” of the crime. They argued that Taylor brandished a firearm following an altercation at a crowded house party and fired three shots into the air on the front lawn. 

They noted that Taylor has two previous firearm-related convictions in Maryland.

The defense attorney, Tammy Thom, requested a sentence of 24 months. 

Taylor addressed the court and apologized to his best friend who threw the party and his girlfriend who was involved in the altercation. He stated, “I’m not a violent person. It was the drugs and alcohol that caused it.” 

He expressed a desire to comply with whatever sentence is imposed and to return to his life of working and being a good father.

Judge Pasichow stated that although the defendant is taking responsibility, the impact of his actions on others is not erased. She expressed that she did not trust probation would prevent Taylor from picking up another charge, citing that this is his third firearm-related charge.

Judge Pasichow ultimately sentenced Taylor to 30 months with credit for time served and three years of supervised release for assault with a dangerous weapon, and 180 days for unlawful discharge of a firearm, which will be served concurrently. She also asked for mental health, substance abuse, and anger management evaluations.

Addressing the defendant, Judge Pasichow explained that he was alienating people and damaging the community and those he cared about.

Judge Pasichow concluded, telling Taylor, “You have the rest of your life ahead of you.” 

No further dates were set.