A shooting defendant rejected a plea deal extended by prosecutors before DC Superior Court Judge Judith Pipe on July 9.
Jory Sydnor, 25, is charged with aggravated assault knowingly while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction for his alleged involvement in a shooting that occurred on April 11 on the 1400 block of Trinidad Avenue, NE. Sydnor’s ex-step-father sustained injuries during the incident.
According to court documents, the victim had broken into Sydnor’s mother’s home extremely intoxicated brandishing a pocket knife. After allegedly assaulting Sydnor’s mother and nine-year-old sister, police responded to the scene to find the victim lying on the porch, intoxicated and suffering from a gunshot wound.
In his hearing, Sydnor rejected the prosecution’s plea offer of assault with a dangerous weapon in return for dropping pursuit of any other charges or enhancements.
Prosecutors were concerned with the defendant’s failure to comply with the court’s orders for pre-trial mental health and drug assessments. Sydnor’s attorney, Gregg Baron, explained that he had bronchitis and was still awaiting a reassessment after informing his pre-trial officer.
Furthermore, the defendant expressed concerns regarding his mother’s safety. He explained that the victim in the case, who is currently also facing charges relating to the incident, was violating his stay-away orders by calling Sydnor’s mother.
Judge Pipe acknowledged the concerns, telling Sydnor to inform the pre-trial of any stay-away violations for them to deal with.
Judge Pipe directed Sydnor to comply with the court’s mental health assessment at the court’s urgent care directly after the hearing.
Parties are set to reconvene on Aug. 28.
