DC Superior Court Judge Jennifer Di Toro accepted the guilty pleas of two assault co-defendants on Aug. 28.
Tyshawn Simms, 26, and Daymark Baird, 21, were originally charged with assault with significant bodily injury for their involvement in the stabbing of an inmate on April 17 at the DC Jail on Apr. 17. The incident took place on the 1900 block of D Street, SE. One individual sustained injuries.
During the hearing, Judge Di Toro acknowledged the co-defedants’ request to enter a plea of guilty rather than going to trial. Both defendants pleaded to one count of assault with significant bodily injury, in exchange for the prosecution not seeking additional charges.
In pleading guilty, Simms and Baird waive their right to a jury trial, waive their right to appeal, and waive their right to DNA testing. The prosecution stated that their evidence would’ve proven the guilt of Simms and Baird beyond a reasonable doubt.
They admit their involvement in the incident.
Simms’ defense attorney, Jonathan Lanyi, requested that he be released until sentencing. The prosecution opposed his release. Judge Di Toro noted the seriousness of the charge and decided he will remain held until sentencing.
A hearing for Simms has been set for Oct. 16. Baird’s sentencing has been set for Sept. 30.
