A carjacking defendant’s request for release was denied by DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan on Oct. 15.
Jerrell Smith, 33, is charged with three counts of armed carjacking for his alleged involvement in a carjacking incident at the intersection of South Capitol Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE, on June 7, 2023. One individual suffered a stab wound.
Smith was previously charged with assault with intent to kill, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, and carrying a dangerous weapon outside home or place of business, for his alleged involvement in the stabbing.
The assault with intent to kill charge was dropped shortly before trial, and he was acquitted of the rest. Despite the acquittal, Smith is still being held for the carjacking charges.
Hannah Claudio, Smith’s defense attorney, filed a motion to release Smith. During the hearing, Claudio argued that the armed carjacking charges aren’t as severe as the other charges, and that there are conditions that could be set to safely release Smith.
The prosecution made no arguments on the safety of Smith’s release.
Judge Ryan denied the request.
Parties are slated to reconvene Oct. 24.
