DC Superior Court Judge Deborah Israel sentenced a defendant who stabbed a security guard to probation instead of prison on April 10.
Warren Rainner, 31, pleaded guilty on Jan. 30 to assault with a dangerous weapon for his involvement in a stabbing on July 5, 2025 at Central Union Mission, a Christian shelter and poverty relief organization, on the unit block of Massachusetts Avenue, NW that left one victim injured.
At sentencing, the victim, a security guard for the organization, said he woke up early that morning feeling stressed and emphasized that he was simply working his job that day.
The victim informed Judge Israel that he was working when he placed an armband on Rainner. Rainner left and returned approximately 30 minutes later, stating he did not like how the armband was applied and threw it at the security guard. Rainier then pulled out a knife and lunged at him. He attempted to back away but was cut on the back of his elbow. The prosecution noted that the incident was captured on surveillance footage.
The prosecution requested 32 months of imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release, along with GPS monitoring and a stay-away order. The prosecution argued that Rainner demonstrated escalating anger and impulse control issues and emphasized the seriousness of the offense.
Rainner’s attorney, Brandon Burrell, pointed to Rainner’s acceptance of responsibility in the plea deal and personal circumstances, including job loss and homelessness. Rainner apologized, stating he is “not a bad person” and does not intend to harm others. He said he is learning from his mistakes and would not re-offend.
Judge Israel acknowledged Rainner’s forthrightness, but also recognized the seriousness of the offense. She sentenced Rainner to 18 months of imprisonment, all suspended, in favor of 12 months of probation. The conditions of his probation include stay-away orders, mental health treatment, cognitive therapy, and assistance with employment and housing.
No further dates were set.
