DC Superior Court Judge Eric Glover granted new counsel and ordered a mental competency exam for a shooting suspect who reportedly became incensed over a fast food order in an Aug. 15 hearing.
Jaquan Proctor, 22, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in shooting at his brother on the 5500 block of Illinois Avenue, NW on July 30.
According to court documents, Proctor initially became upset after his brother, along with the mother of Proctor’s baby, brought a McDonald’s food order back to their house. Proctor was said to be a regular visitor to see his child.
Proctor complained the food order was incorrect and became increasingly agitated. The police report says Proctor and his brother began cursing at each other and Proctor hit his brother in the face. At which point, Proctor reputedly said, “I’m going to get my gun!” According to the police account, Proctor went to a bedroom and returned with a Glock-like handgun.
Then Proctor’s baby mother tried to intervene yelling, “Our daughter is here!” The victim retreated to a bedroom where he and Proctor struggled over control of the gun. During the melee, Proctor allegedly fired a shot into the bedroom door and fled. No one was injured.
Proctor was later identified as the suspect in a police photo.
During the preliminary hearing, Proctor’s lawyer, Atiq Ahmed, informed the court Proctor requested a new lawyer because he wanted someone younger who could understand him.
Despite Judge Glover’s admonition not to speak, Proctor insisted Ahmed did not understand the facts of his case.
Judge Glover accepted the request and informed Proctor he would get him new counsel. In addition, he also ordered a mental competency exam for the defendant.
As such, the judge delayed Proctor’s preliminary hearing until his new attorney is appointed and parties receive the competency evaluation results. Proctor can’t stand trial unless he understands the accusations and is able to work with his lawyer.
Parties are slated to reconvene on Aug. 21 for a mental observation hearing and ascertainment of counsel.
