DC Superior Court Judge Robert Salerno denied motions to release two co-defendants charged in a gun-related assault case during a hearing on Nov. 5.
Zion Greely, 19, Lorenzo Covington, 20, are charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for their alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting on the 700 block of N Street, NW, on Oct. 14.
According to court documents, Greely, Covington, and another individual were captured on surveillance video firing handguns at a victim following a verbal dispute near 7th and O Streets, NW. Responding officers recovered 27 shell casings and two bullet fragments from the scene.
Investigators later identified Covington through a Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) Be on the Lookout (BOLO) flyer and confirmation by his Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency (CSOSA) case manager. Covington was on release for another case at the time of the incident.
During the hearing, Greely’s defense counsel, Diana Yu, requested his release, arguing there is no clear evidence he poses a danger to the community. Yu said Greely is enrolled in school, on track to graduate, and engaged in mental health services.
The prosecution opposed release, arguing that Greely armed himself and participated in a violent confrontation. Prosecutors said no combination of conditions would ensure community safety.
Covington’s defense counsel, Claudine Harrison, also sought his release, acknowledging his criminal history but noting that he is involved in youth programming and an apprenticeship. Harrison said Covington’s mother was willing to supervise him under home confinement. The prosecution opposed release on the same grounds.
Judge Salerno denied both motions.
The parties are scheduled to return for trial readiness on Jan. 2, 2026.
