A teen defendant involved in a shooting pleaded guilty in front of DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park on Oct. 30.
Owen Mendez, 19, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for his involvement in a non-fatal shooting that occurred on Dec. 17, 2023 at a parking garage on the 1600 block of L Street, NW. A vehicle was damaged by gunfire, but no individuals were injured.
According to the proffer of facts, Mendez got into an altercation with the complainant at the parking garage while he was with friends. After the complainant punched him, he walked away and grabbed a pistol from his car, firing one shot before the gun jammed.
The shot had hit and damaged a nearby vehicle, according to the prosecution. The owner of the vehicle reported the damage to the police and started the investigation.
During the hearing, Mendez pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon and carrying a pistol without a license. In exchange, the prosecution agreed to not seek an indictment.
Mendez’s age allows him to potentially receive a sentence under the Youth Rehabilitation Act (YRA), which would allow seal his conviction if he successfully completes all sentencing requirements.
The prosecutor also requested increased reporting measures for Mendez until the sentencing date. A representative for the Pretrial Services Agency (PSA) and defense attorney Nabeel Kibria argued that Mendez has been compliant, and is already on GPS monitoring. After learning about Mendez’s compliance, the prosecution rescinded their request.
The sentencing date is scheduled for Jan. 16.
