A suspect in a domestic shooting remained in jail following a preliminary hearing in front of DC Superior Court Judge Robert Hildum on July 31.
Michael Dais, 46, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon after he allegedly threatened his wife with a gun on July 26 at their residence on the 1500 block of Erie St., SE.
According to court documents, Dais and the victim had were arguing about infidelity and during the dispute Dais pointed a gun at her. A physical altercation ensued resulting in Dais’ being shot in the right hand. Multiple children were present during the incident, one of whom called the police for assistance at the victim’s request.
Defense attorney Stephen LoGerfo alerted Judge Hildum of Dais’ intent to waive his right to a preliminary hearing of the evidence and argued for Dais’ release. He said Dais has strong family connections who he could live with and is employed. He argued that while Dais does have a criminal history, it is dated and consists mostly of possession cases. He has a record of compliance on release including in his current probation in Georgia.
LoGerfo argued the victim’s story that the shooting was self-inflicted by Dias mitigates her responsibility for what happened. He further argued that the testimony of the child who called 911 should be viewed with skepticism as the victim would have had the chance to color what she said.
The prosecution responded that Dais was carrying a weapon during an argument, brandished it against the victim while multiple children were present, and threatened both her and the children. The victim also testified that she was fearful, saying Dais had recently strangled her.
The prosecution emphasized Dais’ criminal history, arguing it worse than LoGerfo implied. Though much of Dais’ record dates back to the 1990s and 2000s, he was released on a 2015 robbery case in Georgia in 2022 for which he is still on probation. He is also charged with an escape in 2022.
Judge Hildum ruled that Dais be held. A plea offer from the prosecution is on the table though the terms were not disclosed.
Parties are set to reconvene on Aug. 13.
