Judge Dismisses Park Stabbing Case After Prosecutors Fail to Indict

DC Superior Court Judge Andrea Hertzfeld dismissed a Navy Yard stabbing case on July 9 after the prosecution failed to issue an indictment despite the approaching deadline.

Tiana Robinson, 31, was charged with assault with a dangerous weapon. The count stemmed from Robinson’s alleged involvement in a stabbing at a park in the heart of the Navy Yard neighborhood on the 100 block of M Street, SE on Oct. 15, 2025. The victim sustained a stab wound to his right hand.

At the hearing, Judge Hertzfeld dismissed Robinson’s case as nolle prosequi, meaning that the prosecution voluntarily stops pursuing the case. The case was also dismissed without prejudice, meaning that the prosecution can refile the charges at a later date.

According to court records, charges were filed against Robinson on Oct. 16, 2025. Robinson’s case approached the nine-month indictment of July 16 and prosecutors did not intend to issue an indictment.

No further dates were set.

Jail Stabbing Defendant Rejects Plea Offer, Heads to Trial

A jail stabbing defendant rejected the prosecution’s final plea offer and chose to proceed to trial before DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt on July 10.

Deswon Franklin, 30, is charged with assault with intent to kill and assault with a dangerous weapon for his alleged involvement in a stabbing on March 24, 2025, on the 1900 block of D Street, SE, in the DC Jail. The victim sustained injuries to his arms, chest, and elbow that required treatment at a hospital.

Thomas Healy, Franklin’s attorney, said that after reviewing the offer with Franklin, he decided to go to trial.

The prosecutor restated the plea offer for the court that would have required Franklin to plead guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon. In exchange, the prosecutors would dismiss the remaining charge against Franklin and not seek additional charges stemming from the incident.

Judge Brandt then confirmed with Franklin that he heard and discussed that exact plea offer with his counsel, and that he still wanted to go to trial.

A jury trial is set to begin on Oct. 26. Parties are scheduled to reconvene for a status hearing on July 24.

Shooting Suspect Who Rode a Scooter Takes a Plea

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.

Judge Denies Release for Suspect in Friend’s Stabbing

DC Superior Court Judge Andrea Hertzfeld denied a motion for release on July 9 for a stabbing defendant who was on supervised release when she allegedly committed the offense.

Yavonne Williams, 29, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for her alleged involvement in a physical altercation and stabbing on the 2600 block of Bowen Road, SE on Feb. 1. The victim, reportedly a friend, sustained wounds to her mid and lower back.

To support the release request, Russell Hairston, Williams’ attorney, noted that Williams is the main caretaker of her 83-year-old father and her child, and she previously had two jobs, including the caretaker role. Hairston argued that Williams’ character indicates she is not a risk to the community.

Judge Hertzfeld stated that due to the seriousness of the offense and that Williams’ was on supervised release for a prior crime during the offense, the motion for release was denied.

In addition, Hairston mentioned that he may need to withdraw from the case due to his busy trial schedule in the fall. Hairston argued again for Williams’ release, stating that it may be a long time before they can schedule another hearing. Hairston expressed that he was reluctant to withdraw as he and Williams have a “good working relationship.”

Judge Hertzfeld maintained Williams’ detention.

Parties are set to reconvene on July 20.

Proceedings Delayed in 5 Co-Defendant Jail Brawl, Stabbing Case

A preliminary hearing of the evidence was rescheduled for a five co-defendant jail fight case when only two defendants appeared in DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt’s courtroom on July 9.

Malik Terrell, 24, Kuron Scutchings, 29, Davon Whitaker, 35, Elijahwon Watts, 29, and Nyasar Childs, 28, are all charged for their alleged involvement in a fight among a dozen individuals at the DC Jail, on the 1900 block of D Street, SE, on Jan. 24. Six of those involved were hospitalized for stab wounds.

Terrell and Scutchings are charged with assault with intent to kill while armed and assault with a dangerous weapon. Whitaker is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and simple assault. Watts and Childs both face misdemeanor charges of simple assault.

According to court documents, weapons used in the brawl included improvised sharp objects and a wet floor sign. The five co-defendants reportedly attacked another group in the jail.

At the hearing, Judge Brandt reported that Watts refused to get off the bus at the courthouse. As a result, Scutchings and Whitaker were the only defendants present for the hearing.

Terrell was transferred to a Federal Bureau of Prisons (BoP) facility outside of DC, according to the prosecution. He will be returned to DC so proceedings can continue.

Judge Brandt called the events an “unwieldy situation that came with surprises.”

Shawn Sukumar, Childs’ attorney, and John Sample, Whitaker’s attorney, said their clients intend to waive their right to a preliminary hearing of the evidence against them. Judge Brandt said she wants to allow all five co-defendants the opportunity to attend the hearing regardless.

Sample said he argued for Whitaker’s release at a previous hearing, and Judge Brandt asked him to file a written request to pursue the matter further.

According to the prosecution, Whitaker was the only defendant who was on release after the fight and rearrested. The other defendants were still in jail. Watts and Childs have already been sentenced and are serving time for other unrelated charges.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Sept. 4.

Carjacking Defendant Refuses to Attend his 9th Hearing

A carjacking defendant refused transport to the courthouse for the ninth time, missing his mental observation hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Jennifer Di Toro on July 9.

Rasheed Jenkins, 27, is charged with armed carjacking and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in an incident on the 5700 block of Eads Street, NE on Jan. 31 2022.

Jenkins is currently incarcerated at Saint Elizabeths Hospital for psychiatric patients. Including his most recent hearing, he has refused to come to court nine times in his case, according to court records.

At the hearing, without Jenkins’ present, Judge Di Toro discussed a recent doctor’s evaluation from the Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) that reported Jenkins was mentally competent to stand trial. Jenkins must understand the charges against him and be able to assist in his defense to stand trial.

According to the prosecutors, the clinical psychologist determined competency by reviewing phone calls Jenkins made from the jail. The judge asked the parties if they objected to this finding.

Jenkins’ attorney, Varsha Govindaraju, stated that she could not speak to the evaluation without first conferring with her client and reviewing the reports herself. She requested a continuance to learn more about the report in addition to a possible global plea deal for Jenkins that would resolve his multiple cases.

Parties are expected to reconvene for a continued mental observation hearing on Aug. 13.

Jail Stabbing Co-Defendants Not Present in Court, Judge Reschedules Prelim

DC Superior Court Judge Heide Herrmann rescheduled a preliminary hearing for a jail stabbing case after both co-defendants were not present in court on July 9.

Dayshawn Lee, 19, and Delante Wilson, 23, are both charged with unlawful possession of contraband into a penal institution. In addition, Lee is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon. The charges stem from their alleged involvement in a stabbing that occurred on Jan. 24 on the 1900 block of D Street, SE, at the DC Jail. According to court documents, six inmates involved in the fight, including Wilson, sustained injuries.

Seth Schrager, Wilson’s attorney, admitted in court that he was not able to locate Wilson although he is held in the DC Jail on charges in an unrelated case.

The prosecutor said Wilson had been transferred to federal custody for a jail stabbing that occurred earlier that day and they will now need at least 45 days before he can appear in court.

Derrick Page, Lee’s attorney, confirmed that Lee was detained in the DC Jail for January case. He explained that Lee’s failed appearance was due to his refusal to be taken to court, as reported by the US Marshals.

Opposing parties affirmed that they prefer for the two co-defendants to appear together, prompting Judge Herrmann to reschedule the hearing after the necessary court order for Wilson is obtained.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Sept. 4.

Prosecutor Describes Carjacking, Robbery Defendant’s Actions as ‘Ludicrous’

Opposing attorneys presented their closing arguments in an armed carjacking and robbery trial before DC Superior Court Judge Andrea Hertzfeld on July 8.

Orlin Lemus-Cruz, 22, is charged with armed carjacking, two counts of robbery while armed, and two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon for his alleged involvement in a carjacking on March 26, 2025, on the 3100 block of Hiatt Place, NW.

Lemus-Cruz’s former co-defendants, 26-year-old Jason Benitez-Umanzor and 21-year-old Julio Villafranco, previously pleaded guilty for their involvement in the incident.

In their closing, prosecutors clarified that although the stolen vehicle was a moped, the offense is an armed carjacking. They asserted this was “inherently a violent act.”

Prosecutors played surveillance footage of the incident, showing the jury that the suspect, who they allege was Lemus-Cruz, was “running at full speed” to help his co-defendants.

Allegedly, Villafranco waved Lemus-Cruz over, and he joined.

Screenshots from Lemus-Cruz’s phone captured one-and-a-half hours after the offense showed a DC alert. Prosecutors questioned the likelihood that Lemus-Cruz “screenshotted some random crime” right after it occurred.

Prosecutors also presented text messages between Benitez-Umanzorand Lemus-Cruz from March 28, 2025. Lemus-Cruz said, “I scanned da Moncler,” to which Benitez-Umanzor replied, “If it’s real, ima just bag you.”

The prosecution argued that the defendants were joking about the robbery they committed two days prior, highlighting “how ludicrous” it was that Lemus-Cruz allegedly plugged in the code for the Moncler jacket to verify its authenticity. Moncler is a high-fashion brand of outerwear with coats costing around $2,000.

According to the prosecution, “the police got lucky” because Lemus-Cruz was arrested with the Moncler jacket. When he spoke to the police, he said, “That’s my jacket.”

Prosecutors addressed the discrepancy between the two different suspects identified by the victims. One of the victims was reportedly identifying a co-conspirator, not Lemus-Cruz, which is why prosecutors said he misidentified the suspect. Prosecutors concluded that it “doesn’t really matter that he got [the identification] wrong.”

A few days before the incident, prosecutors alleged that Lemus-Cruz was sent a photo of a jacket and did not think it was real. In response, Benitez-Umanzor said, “we gon’ bag a migo,” which prosecutors interpreted to mean robbing a Hispanic male for a jacket.

In her closing argument, Quiana Harris, Lemus-Cruz’s attorney, countered that the case contained “many assumptions about [Lemus-Cruz] because of how he looks, where he lives, and who he knows.”

According to Harris, Lemus-Cruz bought a Moncler in March, lived in the area of the crime, and was assumed to be involved by a related officer “because of where he was.”

Harris highlighted “the presumption of innocence” under the law and reminded the jury that it “trumps assumptions” from prosecutors. She also pointed out that neither of the victims identified Lemus-Cruz in court because the prosecutors never asked them to do so.

Harris claimed that the prosecutors’ focus on the co-defendants in the case was a “distraction” and that it does not make Lemus-Cruz a “co-conspirator.”

Addressing the phone message about Lemus-Cruz’s attempt to verify the Moncler, Harris countered that it was “not an admission.” Rather, he wanted to verify it because he bought it. Days before the robbery, he was sent a photo of a designer coat from another brand and was “unimpressed,” claimed Harris.

Harris also addressed the phone location that prosecutors asserted placed Lemus-Cruz in the vicinity of the crime. According to the defense cell site expert, the phone was at that location in January, February, March, and April.

She criticized the investigation by the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), characterizing the officer who identified Lemus-Cruz as “sloppy and unreliable” and noting that he is currently under investigation by the MPD for alleged misconduct.

According to Harris, the descriptions from the victim moments after the robbery do not match Lemus-Cruz. They asserted that the suspect was six feet tall, had green eyes, and was 30 years old.

During rebuttal, prosecutors reminded the jury that Lemus-Cruz had the Moncler in his bag when he was arrested and that “he just knew he was caught red-handed.” Additionally, they alleged his phone was at the scene during the incident.

Prosecutors asserted that “as soon as he took a step to help [his co-defendants], the defendant is guilty.”

They also explained the lack of identification in court, saying that the victim did not identify Lemus-Cruz because he was “terrified.”

Before closing statements, Harris re-called the lead MPD detective in the case, who testified that he obtained search warrants for the co-defendants’ phones. Harris then displayed photographs of both Benitez-Umanzor and Lemus-Cruz. The detective confirmed that the shoes they were wearing in the photographs matched those seen in surveillance footage of the robbery.

The detective also disclosed he had a search warrant for Lemus-Cruz’s house, where they found no clothing, firearms, or proceeds that related to the robbery.

Harris then questioned the detective about the photo array used by the victim to identify Lemus-Cruz. The detective acknowledged he was not present for the identification but confirmed he documented it in his reports and that two other detectives were present.

The defense brought their own cell phone data expert to testify about the records collected from Lemus-Cruz’s cell phone.

On cross-examination, the witness said he did not disagree with any of the conclusions from the prosecution’s cell data expert’s report, which was presented on July 1.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene when the jury reaches a verdict.

Article written by: Mary Hutchinson, Benjamin Hrubesky, Chloe Hokenson, Joshua Loehr and W. Wade DeVinney

Judge Won’t Suppress Neighbor’s Identification of Fatal Shooting Defendant

DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park denied a defense motion on July 8 to suppress the identification of a fatal shooting defendant made by his neighbor.

Deonte Spicer, 39, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed, unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction of greater than a year, and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence. These charges stem from his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 27-year-old Tyvez Monroe on Dec. 26, 2023. The incident occurred at a bus stop outside of L’Enfant Plaza Metro Station on the 600 block of Maryland Avenue, SW, where Monroe was killed by a gunshot wound to his head.

In court, the prosecution called a Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) detective to testify about a witness’ identification of Spicer. The detective explained that Spicer’s neighbor called in a tip about recognizing an individual depicted in a Dec. 26, 2023 MPD news release on Twitter.

When he spoke to detectives, the neighbor recalled that the suspect was released from jail shortly before the shooting, was in a traffic accident prior to the incident, his exact address, and that he owned a female pitbull dog. However, the neighbor stated that he did not know Spicer’s name.

Because the neighbor could not name Spicer as the suspect, his attorney, Daniel Dorsey, questioned the reliability of the identification, calling it “rather vague.”

The prosecution rebutted Dorsey, citing the neighbor’s knowing Spicer’s specific address. In addition, they claimed that the dog the neighbor referred to was identical to the dog depicted next to the suspect in security footage of the shooting.

“You can track the suspect with the dog the whole time,” the prosecution noted.

Judge Park denied the defense motion to suppress the neighbor’s identification of the defendant. He determined it was not unduly suggestive, or could have given rise to a strong likelihood of misidentification, because the neighbor reached out to police to identify the defendant. In addition, Judge Park stated that the neighbor’s specificity demonstrated reliability.

Dorsey also filed a motion on Spicer’s behalf that requested a bill of particulars, which forces prosecutors to explain the details of their charges. Judge Park noted that all of Spicer’s charges were laid out with sufficient specificity.

“This is not a circumstance in which a bill of particulars is necessary,” Judge Park stated as he denied the motion.

A defense motion asking to return Spicer’s property, including three pieces of mail and a wallet, was also denied. Judge Park noted that the Spicer’s items were not illegally seized and would be used as evidence in this case, thus denying their return.

Spicer also filed a motion to suppress the search warrant based on the allegation that the items that were taken illegally, the warrant lacked probable cause, and that police violated the knock and announce rule. However, Judge Park said that the defense had proffered, or officially presented, no basis for Spicer’s claims and denied this motion.

The defendant also filed a motion on his own behalf on Feb. 14, to dismiss his case because of alleged violations of his right to a speedy trial and misconduct by prosecutors.

In the motion, Spicer claimed that his 5th, 6th, and 14th Amendment rights, focused on preventing self-incrimination, a right to a speedy trial and due process of law, were violated based on the prosecution’s mishandling of evidence. Spicer alleged prosecutors doctored videos, purposefully omitted evidence the victim reportedly possessed a firearm, and tampered with Monroe’s clothes.

He also expressed desire for a change of venue due to an image of him circulated by FOX 5 news.

Even though Spicer has been incarcerated in DC since his arrest on Dec. 29, 2023, the motion was denied. Judge Park acknowledged the lengthy incarceration, but cited the seriousness of the crime and procedural delays to explain the trial’s postponement.

Meanwhile, the defendant’s motion for independent DNA testing was granted. Judge Park highlighted the importance of quick testing and requested that the defense complete it as soon as possible.

“Mr. Spicer’s trial cannot be delayed again,” Judge Park stated. Spicer’s trial is scheduled to begin on June 21, 2027.

Parties are set to reconvene on Oct. 22.

Detention Hearing for Deadly Mass Shooting Defendant Delayed, Awaiting Co-Defendants’ DC Transfer

DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman delayed a detention hearing on July 8 for a defendant accused of participating in a mass shooting that injured nine, one fatally.

Jaden Smith 26, Mikeal Matthews, and Isaiah Anderson, are charged with first-degree murder while armed, eight counts of assault with intent to kill while armed, 10 counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, mayhem while armed, and carrying a pistol without a licence outside a home or place of business for their alleged involvement in a mass shooting that occurred on July 20, 2020 at the 3600 block of 14th Street, SW.

According to the prosecution, Smith, Anderson, and Matthews allegedly exited a black four-door vehicle and began shooting. The gunfire injured nine victims, including 28-year-old Devin Peterson, who was fatally shot, and another who lost his leg. Prosecutors said they collected approximately 70 shell casings from the scene.

Anderson and Matthew are in custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BoP). Judge Edelman ordered the two defendants’ returned to the jurisdiction on Aug. 7.

At Smith’s detention hearing, the prosecution claimed that Smith should remain in jail as the “indictment already makes probable cause.”

Smith has a lengthy criminal record including distribution of cocaine, armed robbery, and possession of firearms, all of which occurred after the 2020 incident. The prosecution also pointed out that some of Smith’s offenses were committed while on supervised release.

“No conditions would ensure the safety of the community other than detention,” the prosecution said.

The prosecution argued that the suspects’ motive stemmed from a music video released approximately 10 days earlier, targeting the 9th Street Crew, considered a criminal gang. The defendants are said to be members.

Smith’s attorney, Varsha Govindaraju, requested a hearing to obtain evidence the prosecution has not provided based on the Brady ruling in which evidence possessed by the prosecution must be disclosed if favorable to the defense.

Smith’s case was initiated by a grand jury indictment and therefore, he had no preliminary hearing to rebut the evidence against him. Govindaraju asked for an evidentiary hearing to resolve possible Brady violations and argued the defense should have the right to question the detectives on their investigation.

The prosecution responded that they are currently “rolling out” evidence including body-worn camera footage, protective orders, and other substantial materials.

Judge Edelman ultimately deferred the decision about Smith’s detention and an evidentiary hearing until both Matthews and Anderson are arraigned to “link up the cases.” Smith remains in jail until then.

Parties are set to reconvene Aug. 14.

Victim in Domestic Violence Stabbing Wants Suspect Released

DC Superior Court Judge Jenifer Di Toro released a domestic violence stabbing defendant on July 7.

April Gatewood, 25, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for her alleged involvement in a domestic violence-related stabbing on May 29 on the 2200 Block of H Street, NE. The victim, her fiance, sustained a laceration on his chin.

The prosecution previously opposed Gatewood’s release at the preliminary hearing. Judge Di Toro asked if there was any new information that might change her decision regarding release. Gatewood’s defense attorney, Anthony Cade, claimed the victim has made it clear he opposes Gatewood being charged in connection to the incident.

Judge Di Toro acknowledged the seriousness of the case and highlighted that the likely involvement of substance abuse in Ms. Gatewood’s actions raised further concern. Despite this, Judge Di Toro believed that there were “conditions or some combination of conditions that could ensure the safety of the community” if Gatewood were to be released.

Judge Di Toro ruled that Gatewood be released on a “NO HATS” protective order, which prevents the defendant from harassing, assaulting, threatening, or stalking the victim. This restriction, as opposed to a no-contact order, reflects Gatewood’s continuing relationship with the victim, whom she still intends to marry.

Additionally, Gatewood, who was positive for substance testing at lockup, will need to complete drug and alcohol monitoring and report once a week in person to the Pretrial Services Agency (PSA).

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on Aug. 11.

Shooting Defendant’s Sentencing Postponed a Third Time

A shooting defendant’s sentencing was postponed for a third time in front of DC Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur on July 8.

Roscoe Atchinson, 34, pleaded guilty on Sept. 11, 2025 to assault with intent to commit robbery and carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business for his involvement in a non-fatal shooting on April 15, 2020, on the 4600 block of Livingston Road, SE.

According to court records, defense counsel previously said Atchinson is paralyzed from a gunshot wound he sustained during the incident and has limited resources.

Atchinson was late for his morning hearing, causing Judge Arthur to issue a temporary bench warrant which, he clarified, would be lifted if Atchinson returned to court later that day.

Ultimately, Atchinson did show up, holding a binder titled “Spinal Cord Injury Education.”

His attorney, Raymond Jones, requested to postpone sentencing for the infirmed defendant.

Judge Arthur noted it was the third time Atchinson’s sentencing was rescheduled but granted the defense request.

Parties are set to reconvene on Aug. 31.

Judge Releases Defendant in Domestic Violence Shooting

DC Superior Court Judge Deborah Israel released a 20-year-old shooting defendant accused of domestic violence on July 7, imposing conditions of home confinement and a stay away order from the victims and incident address.

Aaron Smith, 20, is charged with endangerment with a firearm for his alleged involvement in a shooting on March 8 at 3100 block of 11th Street, NW. No injuries were reported though his ex-romantic partner may have been an alleged target.

According to court documents, officers responded to the sound of gunfire toward a second-story bedroom window that had sustained damage and later recovered one shell casing and a firearm in an alley.

A witness identified a person said to be the suspect, caught on surveillance footage as “Aaron Smith, 100 percent.” However, detectives originally believed the suspect could’ve been two other individuals.

Smith was arrested three months after the incident and has been held in the DC jail since June 13.

Smith’s attorney, Janai Reed, asked for his release, citing his lack of criminal history, and stated he could live with his mother and return to his job at the Nationals Park.

Prosecutors highlighted the domestic violence in the case, stating the defendant’s ex-girlfriend lived near the incident.

Reed disagreed debunked the domestic violence assertion and asked for Smith to be put under home confinement.

Judge Israel agreed to put Smith under GPS monitoring and home confinement. She also imposed a stay away order from the victim, the ex-romantic partner and the location of the incident. Judge Israel further ordered that Smith can’t possess a firearm and there can’t be one in his home. She also subjected Smith to an initial round of drug testing.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Aug. 19.

Hung Jury in 2005 Homicide Trial

DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park declared a mistrial on July 2 for a defendant accused of killing his foster sister after the jury could not reach a unanimous verdict.

Michael Wells, 55, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed, second-degree murder while armed, tampering with physical evidence, arson, and two counts of possession of a firearm for a crime of violence, for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of his 23-year-old foster sister, Makia Mosby.

The incident occurred at Mosby’s home on the 1200 block of Valley Avenue, SE, on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 24, 2005. Mosby sustained burns and gunshot wounds.

After less than six days of deliberations, the jury was unable to reach a unanimous verdict. The prosecution argued the murder may have been in retaliation for Mosby’s suspected complicity in the killing of Wells’ best friend.

Parties are slated to reconvene on July 22 to determine how the case will proceed.

Carjacking Defendant Enters Guilty Plea, Sent for Psychiatric Treatment

A carjacking defendant entered a guilty plea and was released to report for treatment at the Psychiatric Institute of Washington (PIW) by DC Superior Court Judge Deborah Israel on July 7.

Roscoe Davis, 38, was originally charged with unarmed carjacking for his involvement in a carjacking turned car accident on the 6900 Block of Piney Branch Road, NW, on May 16.

One of the victims, an Uber driver, identified Davis as the customer who stole his vehicle. According to court documents, Davis refused to exit his car once reaching his destination. Then the Uber driver drove to the Fourth District Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) station. The Uber driver exited the vehicle to report the defendant. Davis proceeded to move into the driver’s seat and drove away from the police station. Shortly thereafter, the vehicle was discovered in an accident that damaged multiple cars.

On the scene, officers found documents of prescribed medication indicating that the defendant was operating the vehicle under the influence.

Davis pleaded guilty to unlawful use of a vehicle, first-degree theft, and misdemeanor destruction of property.

During the hearing, Davis’ attorney, Thomas Key, asked if the court could transfer the defendant to a mental health facility.

According to Key, Davis was in the process of transferring treatment facilities when the incident occurred. Key further explained Davis was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and was a substance user. Once driven to the police station, the defendant acted in fear, said Key. He requested Davis be allowed to check himself into PIW for treatment.

The court released the defendant under the conditions that he checks into Psychiatric Institute of Washington (PIW) within 24 hours of his release and checks with Pretrial Services Agency (PSA) beforehand.

Parties are slated to reconvene for sentencing on Sept. 25.

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