DC Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur granted a stabbing suspect another opportunity to receive drug treatment in a residential a bed-to-bed program on Jan. 23.
Helen Harris, 54, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for her alleged involvement in a non-fatal stabbing on Aug. 8, 2024 on the 1500 block of F Street, NW.
According to court documents, officers found the victim at the incident location with a laceration on her forehead. Harris had allegedly assaulted the victim and cut her with a metal object after drinking.
Susan Ellis, Harris’ attorney, requested Harris be released and given another opportunity to undergo drug treatment.
Judge Arthur noted his concern as the defendant only “lasted four days” in treatment when he previously released her.
According to Ellis, Harris had issues with another individual at her previous drug treatment facility. Ellis argued that Harris was compliant with treatment, but the situation hindered her success.
Judge Arthur was hesitant to consider releasing the defendant because of her history of bench warrants.
The defense contextualized Harris’ absence, “She did lose her son, that is why she was a loss of contact,” Ellis said.
“Ms. Harris is in a different place than she was in October,” Ellis told Judge Arthur.
Judge Arthur granted the defendant another opportunity to receive bed-to-bed treatment.
The parties are scheduled to reconvene Feb. 27.
