A carjacking defendant waived his right to a preliminary hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Jennifer Di Toro on Dec. 9, and was ordered to receive a full forensic evaluation of his mental state.
Demetrius Johnson, 27, is charged with armed carjacking for his alleged involvement in an incident that occurred on Nov. 4 on the 3700 block of Hayes Street, NE.
During the hearing, Russell Hairston, Johnson’s attorney, alerted the court of his intent to waive his right to a preliminary hearing.
The prosecution requested that Johnson be required to participate in drug testing and treatment and be monitored by GPS during his release. Johnson has been on release since Nov. 20 after he was originally found mentally competent to stand trial, meaning he understands the charges and can help his attorney defend the case.
According to the prosecution, the offense is “very disturbing.” The prosecution stated their theory is that Johnson allegedly approached the victim’s vehicle and pulled on the door handle, which caused the victim to get out of his car and confront Johnson.
The prosecution said that as the victim struggled with Johnson, the defendant allegedly pepper sprayed the victim and physically fought him, dragging him as his car rolled down the street. Johnson allegedly gained control of the vehicle, drove off and allegedly crashed the vehicle in Maryland, where he was apprehended.
The victim sustained minor injuries during the incident, according to the prosecutor.
The prosecution insisted they “need to make sure he is where he needs to be,” and should have the ability to track any other offense he may commit.
Hairston disagreed, stating that since his release, Johnson has been fully compliant with his conditions. According to Hairston, Johnson has ample community support, including his mom and a mental health specialist who were both present at the hearing.
Hairston also told Judge Di Toro that Johnson’s mom had filed a petition to become Johnson’s legal guardian as he navigates release.
Hairston argued that drug testing and GPS monitoring are unnecessary at this point, but that a full forensic evaluation may be needed to ensure the parties are fully aware of Johnson’s mental wellbeing.
According to Hairston, Johnson “deals with great anxiety.”
Judge Di Toro stated she’d issue an order for Johnson to undergo a forensic examination.
Parties are slated to reconvene on Jan. 21.
