Judge Won’t Release Shooting Defendant

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DC Superior Court Judge Heide Herrmann denied the release request of a shooting defendant on Nov. 1, claiming he committed an “extremely dangerous offense” that makes him a potential threat to the community. 

Roland Brewer, 19, is charged with aggravated assault knowingly while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and first-degree burglary for his alleged involvement in a shooting that occurred on July 21. This incident occurred on the 500 block of 50th Place, NE and injured one individual.

During the hearing, Brewer’s defense attorney, Lauckland Nicholas, requested release with home confinement after Brewer waived his rights to a preliminary hearing.

The prosecution argued that because Brewer had a motive and two key witnesses and the victim were still out in the community and known to Brewer, their safety may be at risk if he was released. 

In addition, one of the three suspects is not in custody and could be in contact with Brewer if he is not held. The prosecution recapitulated Brewer’s criminal record, including seven arrests in DC. 

Judge Herrmann considered both arguments but deemed the offense too dangerous for Brewer’s release, and ordered him held.

Parties are set to reconvene on Nov. 12.