A defendant who fled the scene of a shooting on an electric scooter accepted a plea deal in front of DC Superior Court Judge Andrea Hertzfeld on July 9.
Darius Brown, 23, was originally charged with aggravated assault while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his involvement in a shooting on the 200 block of W Street, NW on April 24. According to court documents, five shots were fired and the victim sustained an injury to his hand.
In accordance with the plea offer, Brown pleaded guilty to aggravated assault and carrying a pistol without a license. In exchange, the prosecution agreed not to seek further charges through a grand jury indictment. The prosecution also agreed to ask for a sentence in the bottom third of the guidelines.
The prosecution read to the court how they would have proved Brown’s involvement in the incident beyond a reasonable doubt if the case had proceeded to trial. They said Brown knowingly and willingly engaged in conduct that resulted in serious bodily harm with a gun on the evening of the offense.
The prosecution cited CCTV video footage as key evidence of Brown’s guilt. They explained that Brown drove to the incident address on a black electric scooter. Brown stepped off the scooter, fired a black handgun, and boarded the scooter again to leave.
Judge Hertzfeld confirmed with Brown that he agreed with the prosecution’s statements and knowingly and voluntarily pleaded guilty.
Parties are slated to reconvene on Sept. 14 for Brown’s sentencing.
