A doctor told DC Superior Court Judge Carmen McLean on April 14 that a stabbing defendant’s wheelchair was taken because of alleged fights and a lack of necessity.
James Gregory, 37, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal stabbing that occurred on the 2200 block of Minnesota Avenue, SE on March 26, 2025. The victim sustained a stab wound to their left arm.
Judge McLean ordered a representative from the Department of Corrections (DOC) to appear to address the emergency motion to return Gregory’s wheelchair that was filed on Jan. 27. Gregory’s doctor from the DC Jail was also present.
According to Santia McLaurin, Gregory’s attorney, his wheelchair was taken on Nov. 25, 2025. McLauren said a psychologist visiting Gregory at the DC Jail in February informed McLauren she saw “Gregory crawling on his hands and knees,”McLaurin continued. “[Gregory] has been dragging that broken leg.”
Judge McLean said to the DOC representative, “Tell me why he’s not back in [the Correctional Treatment Facility (CTF)],” and “I’d like an answer from the jail.”
The representative stated wheelchairs and crutches are not allowed in the general population in the DC Jail. He said they were in the process of transferring Gregory to CTF. However, the doctor said Gregory could not be transferred to the CTF’s medical unit because of a separation order following Gregory’s alleged involvement in a fight.
The doctor stated he did not believe Gregory needed a wheelchair and that a cane or crutches would suffice. Additionally, the doctor said wheelchairs are needed for those with balance or coordination issues, which Gregory has neither.
McLaurin affirmed her request for Gregory to receive a wheelchair or crutches. Judge McLean told McLaurin there’s not much more she can do. She advised McLaurin to file a motion for release including medical needs and conditions of release that can ensure the safety of the community.
The parties are scheduled to reconvene on May 28.
