Stabbing defendant sentenced by DC Superior Court Judge Robert Salerno avoided additional jail time after showing “genuine remorse” on July 2.
On March 20, Veronica Jackson, 54, pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon for her involvement in a stabbing on the 700 block of H Street, NE on Aug. 28, 2025.
The presentence report confirmed Jackson had no prior criminal history. Prosecution requested a 24-month sentence, with all but six months suspended, and two years of supervised release, and a stay away order from the victim.
The prosecution discussed the dashcam video evidence recorded by a nearby Tesla which allegedly showed the altercation between Jackson and the victim. Prosecutors confirmed the victim suffered three slash wounds to her hand and was attempting to get away from Jackson during the offense.
Jackson’s attorney, Sellano Simmons, argued this offense was the result of PCP, alcohol, and “one horrible day.” Since the incident, Jackson has been actively changing her lifestyle by receiving treatment and maintaining sobriety.
The defense also noted that Jackson lost her job as a home health aide because of her actions and no longer has a steady source of income. Simmons added that “this case is about addiction,” arguing that additional treatment would be more beneficial to Jackson, rather than jail time.
Jackson read a note directly to the judge, expressing remorse and guilt. She cried as she took responsibility for her actions, stating, “I have failed myself, my community, and my family.”
Judge Salerno also watched the Tesla footage and noticed a person in the video that seemed to be smiling and recording the incident – insinuating Jackson could’ve been provoked. He noted that this individual’s actions may imply Jackson planned the attack, rather than it being a mere chance encounter. Neither party knew who the person’s identity.
The prosecution established Jackson and the victim knew each other. The defense confirmed this fact, adding that the defendant may have seen the victim at her ex-boyfriend’s work the night of the offense. Simmons argued this incident was a chance encounter that stemmed from “a fight over a loved one.”
Judge Salerno said this type of offense usually results in jail time, however, he believes that Jackson already paid the consequences of her actions, shows “genuine remorse,” and has taken the proper steps toward positive change.
Judge Salerno sentenced Jackson to 24 months and three years of supervised release, with all time suspended. Jackson will be required to serve 18 months of probation, with conditions including a stay away order from the victim, regular drug tests, anger management, 30 hours of community service, and a $100 payment to the Victim of Violent Crime Fund.
No further dates were set.
