Judge Sentences Domestic Violence Defendant to Probation

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On Sept. 14, a DC Superior Court judge sentenced a domestic violence defendant to 12 months of probation. 

Ashleigh McDonald pleaded guilty to simple assault. As part of the plea deal with the prosecution, her Court Protective Order (CPO) violation charge was dropped. 

Judge John McCabe sentenced McDonald to 30 days, all of which were suspended, plus 12 months of probation. 

McDonald, 19, was sentenced under the guidelines of the Youth Rehabilitation Act (YRA.)

The requirements of McDonald’s probation include anger management classes and drug testing. She must also stay away from the victim. 

Judge McCabe waived the community service requirement due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Because she was sentenced under the YRA, her case will effectively be sealed once she completes her requirements.

McDonald must also pay $50 to the Crime Victims Compensation Fund.