DC Superior Court Judge Judge Robert Salerno granted parties’ motions in a carjacking case to continue sentencing on Oct. 24, but he denied the defense’s request to delay it until 2027.
On June 30, Eric Woods, 18, pleaded guilty to armed carjacking and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his involvement in three carjacking incidents on Oct. 11. The incident occurred at the intersection of Hanover Place and North Capitol Street, NW. .
Gregg Baron, Woods’ defense attorney, asked the court to delay sentencing until 2027, a request which the prosecution opposed and Judge Salerno denied. Baron argued Woods is in the process of getting his high school diploma, and wants to ensure he could graduate before being transferred to the Bureau of Prisons (BoP).
“We believe that’s just far too long. There are victims who are asking for closure,” the prosecutor said, objecting to the request.
“We just want Mr. Woods to get his high school diploma,” Baron said.
In support of his request, Baron said that recidivism rates decline when convicts receive their high school diploma, “according to studies.”
Further, Baron said that the BoP does not offer programs allowing inmates to get their high school diploma and does not implement Individualized Learning Program conditions such as one-on-one sessions to receive help on assignments and help breaking down tasks into smaller parts.
“I don’t think anyone is disagreeing with what you said,” Judge Salerno responded. He said he and the prosecution disagree with the amount of time the defense asked to delay sentencing.
“This is way too far into the future,” Jude Salerno said.
Judge Salerno granted a continuance to allow parties to discuss a new sentencing date.
Parties are slated to reconvene Dec. 12.
