A stabbing defendant waived her preliminary hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Eric Glover on Sept. 18.
Chela Ruffin, 39, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for her alleged involvement in a stabbing that occurred at the unit block of Galveston Street, SW on Sept. 15. One individual sustained injuries.
Ruffin’s attorney, Stuart Johnson, alerted the court that the defendant was waiving her right to a preliminary hearing of the evidence against her.
Johnson requested that Ruffin be released under a high intensity supervision program with GPS monitoring. He argued that Ruffin acted in self-defense.
He also stated that Ruffin has been cooperative, is fully employed, and the mother of a young child. He claimed that the victim was uncooperative and according to his brother, was intoxicated.
Additionally, Ruffin’s case manager stated that she has not been able to take her medication due to government funding cuts.
The prosecution argued that Ruffin should remain held, citing that she is a danger to the community. They argued that Ruffin admitted to stabbing the victim, saying the victim swung at her so she stabbed him in retaliation. They insisted that Ruffin’s claims are not reflective of self-defense.
The court decided to continue holding Ruffin noting that the weight of evidence is compelling–Ruffin admitted to stabbing the individual, and the seriousness of the charge.
Parties are slated to reconvene Oct. 14.
