Tougher Stay Away Conditions Imposed on Domestic Shooting Suspect

By Elizabeth Brady - November 14, 2024
Court | Daily Stories | Domestic Violence | Non-Fatal Shooting | Shooting | Victims |

DC Superior Court Judge Heidi Pasichow denied a shooting defendant’s request for release on Nov. 7, following multiple violations of a stay-away order.

Aaron Carson, 23, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in a domestic violence shooting that occurred on the 2500 block of 13th Street, NW on Sept. 18. 

According to court documents, Carson accused his ex-significant other of infidelity, which caused an altercation that escalated from an alleged assault with a belt to the upper body to a discharge of his firearm in the direction of the victim. Their four children were present in the house at the time. 

During the hearing, a plea offer was revised and introduced to the defense that would require Carson to plead guilty to attempted assault with a dangerous weapon, destruction of property –misdemeanor, and contempt. The defense requested a continuance to discuss the details.

Defense attorney Erin Griffard requested the release of the defendant to home confinement given the victim’s need for assistance with their four children as she is suffering from increased epileptic seizures. 

The prosecution strongly opposed it due to the nature of the case and Carson’s history of domestic violence cases with the same victim. This is the first incident that allegedly included a firearm, which poses an even greater threat to the community, according to the prosecution. 

Judge Pasichow rejected the stepped down release request immediately.

Prosecutors also directed the court to the defendant’s jail phone call history with the victim which included discussion of the case and her testimony. Their main concern is potential interference with the fact-finding process, as the victim has changed her story allegedly due to conversations with Carson. 

The prosecution requested an enhancement to the current stay away order preventing communication, to no contact between Carson and the victim whatsoever. 

Griffard argued that the complainant would like the stay away order to be lifted, citing their shared children. She added communication is necessary between the parents.

Judge Pasichow reminded the defendant that phone calls are recorded and can be used against him as the case progresses. The judge also suggested the prosecution file additional charges of obstruction if conversations potentially affecting the trial continue. 

Pashichow adjusted the stay away order to permit communication solely through a third party, for which Carson’s sister volunteered. The communication must solely involve the children. 

“If this doesn’t work, we will have to move on to Plan B, or in this case, Plan C,” said Judge Pasichow when referring to the next step of no contact if violations of the stay away order continues.

The parties are set to reconvene on Nov. 18.