DC Superior Court Judge Robert Salerno ordered continued detention for a domestic shooting defendant during a felony status conference on Sept. 21.
Valencia Little, 20, is charged with two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon for her alleged involvement in a shooting on the 2700 block of Sheridan Road, SE, on Aug. 30. No injuries were reported.
According to court documents, Little allegedly fired a handgun into the living room window of her boyfriend’s apartment. Witnesses reported seeing Little point the weapon at the residence. In her interview, Little claimed the offense occurred after her boyfriend physically forced her off the premises.
Little’s defense attorney, Kevin Kasses, argued for her release, referencing her strong family ties, recent high school graduation, and efforts to find a job. Kasses said Little intended to shoot a window, not to harm people.
Judge Salerno interrupted Kasses, referencing a police interview in which Little reportedly admitted to the offense and did not show remorse. When police informed Little that luckily no one was hurt and said she should be happy about that, she replied “Not really, but it’s okay,” court documents state.
Kasses countered that Little’s repeated requests to go home during the interview demonstrated her youth and lack of comprehension regarding the situation.
The prosecution argued that Little remained a threat to the community. Judge Salerno agreed and denied Little’s release.
Little briefly addressed the court, stating the incident was reportedly sparked by her abusive relationship with her boyfriend. Throughout the hearing, she kept her head down and cried silently.
The parties indicated potential plea negotiations but discussed no terms in court. Little’s next hearing is scheduled for Oct. 29.
