DC Superior Court Judge Micheal Ryan imposed a 24 month sentence on an individual with all but 18 months suspended on Sept. 12.
On July 8, Vann Allen, 36, was convicted of unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction.
Allen was acquitted of assault with intent to kill while armed, four counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, aggravated assault while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon for his alleged involvement in a shooting on the 1400 block of New York Avenue, NE on Nov. 11, 2023.
During his sentencing, the prosecution requested that Allen serve a 28 month sentence, due to the nature and circumstances of the case, and Allen’s prior history of assault.
Judge Ryan noted that he had received numerous letters from Allen’s friends and family, many of which spoke highly about his character. Judge Ryan also addressed Allen’s upbringing, which featured a year in the foster care system and a fraught relationship with his mother and her violent boyfriend, and recognized the resulting mental toll.
The defense responded by asking for the minimum sentence of one year and one day. Defense attorney Sellano Simmons argued that Allen was acting out of self-defense, a verdict that the jury agreed on unanimously.
Allen addressed the court, and said that he took full responsibility and remorse for all parties.
“I’m a father and a figure in my community,” Allen said. “I was granted the opportunity in September to come home and take care of my family, and I would like to continue to do so.”
Judge Ryan said he was unable to move past Allen’s choice that day to walk around with his weapon.
“Mr. Allen didn’t need to be there, he didn’t need to be armed,” Judge Ryan said. “Walking around with a glock is concerning to me.”
Judge Ryan sentenced Allen to 24 months in prison with all but 18 months suspended, two years of probation, and three years of supervised release for unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction. Upon his release, Allen must also register as a gun offender.
The defense requested that Allen turn himself in to the DC Department of Corrections on Monday, Sept. 15, which Judge Ryan denied. He was taken into custody by the US Marshal in Judge Ryan’s courtroom.
No further dates were set.
