D.C Superior Court Judge Robert Salerno released a stabbing defendant on electronic monitoring for two days to care for her relative on Oct. 20.
Rhonda Fleming, 58, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for her alleged involvement in a stabbing incident that occurred on Oct. 2, on the 1500 block of Benning Road, NE.
Fleming’s court appearance was delayed due to understaffing of jail transport personnel. Howard McEachern, Fleming’s attorney, stated the defendant might want to accept a plea deal from the prosecution, which was not discussed in open court
McEachern requested her temporary release until Oct. 22, citing the need for her to care for a relative with a severe illness. Her attorney assured the judge that Fleming had been informed of the consequences if she failed to return to court as required.
The prosecution acknowledged her desire to assist her relative but opposed the release based on strong evidence presented during the preliminary hearing, as well as her prior conduct and convictions.
Despite the prosecution’s objection, the judge ruled in favor of temporary release, stating he would “make this work.”
Fleming will be released under several conditions, including GPS monitoring, maintaining medications prescribed, and adhering to the stay-away order from the victim.
Parties are slated to reconvene Oct. 22.
