Defendant’s Absence Causes Judge to Delay Sentencing

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A DC Superior Court judge pushed back a sentencing to allow a defendant to be physically present in court. 

Kaveyon Andrews pleaded guilty in May 2019 to assault with intent to commit robbery, robbery and unarmed carjacking. The charges are for three separate incidents that occurred in 2018 and 2019. His initial charges were assault with intent to commit robbery while armed and robbery while armed.

The 18 year old’s attorney, Atiq Ahmed, filed a motion Sept. 14 for the defendant to be physically present at his sentencing. 

But, the prosecution argued against the motion. 

“It’s going to be close to two years since he plead guilty to this case,” said the prosecutor. “We’re at a standstill because the defense team doesn’t want him sent to prison…”

The prosecutor continued, “I would respectfully request to make special accommodations to get this accomplished within the next week.” 

Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, DC courtrooms would not be open until Nov. 9 at the earliest. 

Judge Judith Smith granted the motion as it is the defendant’s right to ask to be present in court. 

Based on the three charges, the base sentence for Andrews’ crimes is six years in prison. 

Judge Smith scheduled Andrew’s sentencing for Nov. 10.