Defendant Stabbed by His Victim Accepts Plea For Firearms Charges

Thank you for reading D.C. Witness.
Help us continue our mission into 2025 by donating to our end of year campaign.

Donate Now

Even though Michael Robinson was stabbed by the victim, he accepted a plea deal in a firearms case in a hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Jennifer Di Toro on Sept. 25.

Robinson, 25, was charged with assault with a dangerous weapon, threat to kidnap or injure a person while armed, carrying a pistol without license, possession of unregistered firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition, and civil protection order violation. The charges stem from his involvement in a stabbing incident on the 4500 block of Dix Street, NE on April 19, 2023. One individual sustained injuries.

According to court documents, a conflict escalated after Robinson and his girlfriend argued about a contaminated fish sandwich purchased at a McDonald’s. When the couple arrived home, tensions rose, leading Robinson to brandish a gun and threaten to kill the victim who was pregnant. In response, the victim stabbed Robinson in the hand according to court documents.

Madhuri Swarna, Robinson’s attorney, informed the court that his client accepted a plea deal. In return for pleading guilty to carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business, the prosecution would waive bringing more serious charges.

Swarna also requested a modification of Robinson’s release conditions. Previously, he was prohibited from contacting the victim, unless through a third party, due to safety concerns. 

Swarna asked Judge Di Toro that Robinson be allowed to communicate directly with the victim solely for the purpose of coordinating child custody.

Prosecution countered, arguing for a suitable third party alternative based on safety concerns.

Judge Di Toro requested briefs from both parties before making a decision.

Parties are slated to reconvene Jan. 16.