Stabbing Defendant Held After Waiving Preliminary Hearing

By Madelyn Nall , Cameron Horne - October 25, 2024
Daily Stories | stabbing | Suspects |

A defendant accused of stabbing his sister’s significant other waived his preliminary hearing in front of DC Superior Court Judge Heide Herrmann on Oct. 25. 

Dayon Pratt, 31, is charged with aggravated assault knowingly while armed for his alleged involvement in stabbing a victim on Oct. 16 on the 4600 block of Nannie Helen Burroughs Avenue, NE.

According to court documents, Pratt allegedly stabbed the victim—his sister’s significant other—while the victim was sleeping. Pratt was staying with family members the night before the incident, and was reportedly acting “crazy,” appearing naked.  

During the hearing, Pratt waived his rights to a preliminary hearing meaning the prosecution can continue with his case.

Defense attorney Darryl Daniels argued on behalf of Pratt’s release, stating that he has no criminal history and no bench warrants. Daniels stated that Pratt has mental health issues that need to be addressed, and that he has family members who can help him stay on track. 

The prosecution argued to the contrary stating the wound could have been fatal stabbing because it was in the stomach.

The prosecution also argued that having Pratt stay with family is not reassuring, because the incident happened while he was staying at a family member’s house. 

Judge Herrmann ruled that there were no conditions that she could set that would ensure the safety of the community, and therefore Pratt will be detained.

The parties are slated to reconvene on Nov. 13.