A shooting defendant pleaded not guilty at an arraignment on Jan. 9, and told DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt that the DC Jail is infested with mold.
Brandon Ross, 33, is charged with assault with intent to kill while armed, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, unlawful possession of a firearm by a convict, and carrying a pistol without a license for his alleged involvement in a shooting that occurred on the 2800 block of Alabama Avenue, SE on Dec. 17, 2024.
During the hearing, Carrie Weletz alerted Judge Brandt that she would be filing a medical alert for Ross, stating that there is “a huge mold problem at the jail.” According to Weletz, the showers and areas where Ross is required to do the jobs assigned to him are infected.
Weletz raised concerns about Ross’ respiratory and breathing problems, and stated it has been very difficult to reach out to the jail’s attorney to discuss the issues.
“I’m glad you’ve brought it to my attention,” Judge Brandt stated, saying she had a meeting with the Department of Corrections (DOC) in the coming week and would raise the issues.
Parties are slated to reconvene Aug. 7.
