DC Superior Court Judge Charmetra Jackson Parker denied a defendant’s release accused of a stabbing during a neighborhood dispute after she waived her preliminary hearing on Feb. 13.
Tara Bellinger, 40, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for her alleged involvement in a non-fatal stabbing in an apartment building. The incident took place on Feb. 10 on the unit block of Forrester Street, SW.
Defense attorney Louis Kamara alerted the court of Bellinger’s intent to waive her right to a preliminary hearing of the evidence which Judge Parker accepted.
The prosecution requested Bellinger remain held at the DC Jail while she awaits trial due to the seriousness and dangerous nature of the alleged crime. According to the prosecutors, the offense involved Bellinger using a knife in an argument with her neighbors and cutting one of the individuals’ hands.
The violent act coupled with the defendant’s close proximity the to the victims if released, it would be too much of a risk for Bellinger to be released, asserted prosecutors.
Kamara emphasized that Bellinger was a single mother with a minimal criminal history. He added that she had a stable job and income.
However, Judge Parker decided not to release Bellinger because she could because she could be a potential threat. The judge also raised concerns regarding whether Bellinger would return to court given the charges against her.
Parties are slated to reconvene on Feb. 27.
