Stabbing Defendant’s Request for Ill Health Release Denied

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An attorney representing a stabbing client requested his client’s release due to health issues, but the motion was denied by DC Superior court Judge Heidi Pasichow on March 11.

​​Brenda Blanco, 35, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for her alleged involvement in a stabbing that occurred on Feb. 17 on the 3600 block of 14th Street, NW. 

Blanco’s attorney, Jonathan Lanyi, alerted Judge Pasichow about Blanco’s previous hospitalization for severe health conditions including cardiac arrests, which he argued should be enough reason to approve Blanco’s release. 

The prosecution opposed the motion, mentioning surveillance footage of the stabbing incident and identification of the defendant by police officers. The prosecution also stated that the defendant previously tested positive for fentanyl and synthetic cannabinoids in jail. 

Judge Pasichow denied Blanco’s request for her release and filed for a medical alert instead, which would facilitate her receiving treatment while at the DC Jail. 

Parties are slated to reconvene March 19.