‘This Court Saved My Life… Thank You,’ Says Stabbing Defendant

By Kelsey Ball , Radhakund Ramnarine - October 29, 2024
Court | Daily Stories | Data | stabbing | Suspects |

A stabbing defendant received his sentence before DC Superior Court Judge Anthony Epstein on Oct 25.

Raymond Watson, 45, was originally charged with assault with intent to kill while armed for his involvement in the stabbing of a longtime friend with a pocket knife on Feb. 16 on the 2000 block of Q Street, SE.

On Aug. 9, he pleaded guilty to aggravated assault knowingly while armed, in exchange for the prosecution not seeking an indictment.

During the hearing, the prosecution requested Judge Epstein impose the maximum sentence of five years with three years of supervised release, citing the nature and circumstances of the offense.

Defense attorney Micheal Bruckheim requested the judge sentence Watson to the lower end of the sentencing guidelines — two years in prison with three years of supervised release with credit for time served.

Bruckheim requested that Judge Epstein take into consideration Watson’s forthcoming, willingness to take responsibility, and desire for mental health, drug abuse, and anger management resources that would become available to him when he is released.

Judge Epstein acknowledged Watson’s humility, saying “the victim started the altercation and verbally threatened him, he [Watson] escalated the situation.” 

Judge Epstein pointed out that even with this acknowledgement, he would still have to consider his criminal history and lack of compliance while on release. 

Watson was sentenced to four years incarceration with three years of supervised release with the addition of intervention plans while on parole.

Watson expressed that “being locked up” helped him in regards to his drug addiction, which was not only hurting himself but also his family.

“This court saved my life…thank you,” replied Watson in his emotional statement to the court.

No further dates were set.