‘He is Not a Robber and Certainly Not a Murderer,’ Defense Says

Parties presented their closing arguments to the jury in a homicide trial before DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz on April 8.

Jaime Macedo, 24, is charged with first-degree felony murder while armed, attempted robbery while armed, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction of more than one year, for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 25-year-old Maxwell Emerson. The incident occurred on the 600 block of Alumni Lane, NE, on July 5, 2023.

In their closing argument, prosecutors argued Macedo shot and killed Emerson during an attempted robbery. Emerson died from a single gunshot wound to the stomach.

Emerson was in DC to attend a teaching conference at the Library of Congress, prosecutors said. In preparation, he applied and obtained a letter of recommendation. Emerson “abandoned” the conference because he was “being robbed at gun point,” said prosecutors.

Prosecutors said Emerson planned to use the Brookland-CUA Metro Station as a shortcut to get to the conference. After exiting the Metro station, Emerson met Macedo for this first time, according to prosecutors. Emerson had “one place to be” and wouldn’t risk “being late.”

Prosecutors showed video footage from the Metro station, which they claimed shows Macedo lifting up his shirt and flashing a gun to Emerson. Macedo’s back is visible to the camera and he moves his elbow up, which they said is when he flashed his gun.

Prosecutors said Macedo walked up to Emerson and “said something” outside of the Metro station. When Macedo showed a gun, Emerson opened his wallet and handed his Airpods to Macedo, according to the prosecution. Prosecutors said Emerson tried to walk away, but Macedo followed him.

“[Emerson] was scared,” said the prosecution. “He didn’t want to get hurt.”

Prosecutors presented surveillance footage that showed Emerson walking with his hands up. This is the universal sign for “I surrender, don’t shoot,” they said. Emerson did this when pedestrians walked by to get their attention, prosecutors claimed.

At this point, Emerson tried to “comply” and “find a way out,” the prosecution said, his “safest option” was to keep walking with Macedo. Prosecutors showed another clip of Emerson walking with his hands up as another pedestrian walked by.

Prosecutors said Macedo directed Emerson to sit on a bench in a courtyard. With Macedo “hovering over him,” Emerson sent 300 dollars via Cash App to “the account of a complete stranger.”

Two minutes after he sent the money, Emerson sent a Snapchat message to his mother that read “Help. Bring ribbed at cub point.” The prosecution showed a screenshot of a Snapchat keyboard to demonstrate Emerson’s typos.

The prosecution claimed jurors “knew what [Emerson] was trying to say,” he was “being robbed at gun point” and needed help. It wasn’t safe for Emerson to call 911 and trying to “comply” with Macedo did not work.

Prosecutors said that in “one last desperate attempt to get out,” Emerson tackled Macedo. Then Emerson was shot one time and fell to the ground, they said. Macedo ran away so that he “wouldn’t be held accountable,” according to the prosecution.

Macedo’s attorneys, Jessica Willis and Rachel Cicurel, suggested a different version.

Wills said Macedo did not intend to “threaten or rob” Emerson. Macedo told Emerson that he had kids and needed help, she said. Will argued Emerson caught Macedo by surprise when he was willing to help. Emerson was engaged and listening to Macedo, Willis claimed.

Emerson did not see Macedo’s gun until right before he sent the Snapchat message to his mom, Willis argued. This is when “something changed for Emerson.” He went from thinking Macedo was “harmless” to “noticing he was armed.”

“Macedo is a lot of things, but he is not a robber and certainly not a murderer,” Willis said.

An important principle of law is “presumption of innocence,” emphasized Willis. The law “protects each and every one of us, no matter the mistakes that you have made.”

Willis said the prosecution has the burden of proof in this case. If jurors have questions, they should hold those against the prosecution, she said. Jurors have “compelling reasons to doubt” their case.

“A robbery doesn’t make sense,” Willis said.

Macedo was “body slammed onto the brick with an extraordinary amount of force” by Emerson, Willis said. When Emerson loosened his grip on Macedo, the force caused the gun to go off, Willis argued.

According to Willis, no shell casing was found on the scene, because it was in Macedo’s pants. This is evidence that the gun was fired from inside his pants, she said.

Willis asserted there was no “stippling” in Emerson’s gunshot wound because the shot was fired inside Macedo’s pants. Stippling typically occurs when a gun is fired within one-to-three feet of the victim, she said. Stippling is tiny abrasions on the skin around the wound caused by gun powder.

Macedo is “still haunted by the accident and is struggling to make sense of what happened,” according to Willis.

“All of the evidence undermines that Macedo pulled the gun,” Willis said.

In the prosecution’s rebuttal, they argued that the only verdict consistent with the evidence is guilty on all counts.

Parties will reconvene when the jury reaches a verdict.

Defendant Involved in Fatal Car Crash Accepts Plea, Eschews Insanity Defense

DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park informed a homicide defendant about her right to an insanity defense before she accepted a plea deal on April 8.

Kayla Brown, 24, was originally charged with negligent homicide, unarmed carjacking, and unauthorized use of a vehicle for her involvement in a fatal car crash at MedStar Washington Hospital Center on the 100 block of Irving Street, NW on June 3, 2024. After leaving the hospital, Brown stole a car with 55-year-old Leslie Gaines still inside and crashed it, resulting in Gaines’ death.

Brown accepted a deal that required her to plead guilty to negligent homicide and unauthorized use of a vehicle. In exchange, the prosecution dropped all other charges. Brown will face a maximum of 5 years imprisonment.

An Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) from the DC United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) was a witness in the case. As a result, a prosecutor from the USAO for the Southern District of West Virginia handled the matter.

Court documents state that, on the day of the carjacking, Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officers responded to a 911 call from Brown’s parents, who said Brown had been acting in a crazy manner since taking an unknown drug three days earlier. An officer accompanied Brown in an ambulance to the hospital.

According to court documents, Gaines’ daughter called MPD officers to MedStar Washington Hospital Center approximately an hour and a half later. Gaines’ daughter told them she left her mother in the car with the motor running outside the emergency room while seeking help to bring her mother inside. When she returned, looking for the car, it was gone.

The prosecutor claimed that had the case gone to trial, they would have proven beyond a reasonable doubt that Brown used a car without permission and crashed it, directly resulting in Gaines’ death.

Judge Park ensured Brown understood the rights she gave up by entering into a plea agreement. He also confirmed Brown understood that if the case went to trial, she could use insanity as a defense and claim that at the time of the incident, she was unable to differentiate right from wrong.

He also explained that Brown entered an Alford Plea, where she maintained her innocence, but admitted the prosecution had enough evidence to likely convict her at trial. Judge Park explained that while Brown will maintain her innocence, he will sentence her as if she is guilty.

After Judge Park was satisfied she understood the rights she gave up, he accepted Brown’s guilty plea.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene for sentencing on Oct. 2.

Judge Delays Closings in Homicide Trial

DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz delayed closing arguments for a homicide trial due to a juror’s absence on April 7.

Jaime Macedo, 24, is charged with first-degree felony murder while armed, attempted robbery while armed, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction of less than one year, for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 25-year-old Maxwell Emerson. The incident occurred on the 600 block of Alumni Lane, NE, on July 5, 2023. Emerson sustained one gunshot to the abdomen.

Judge Kravitz informed parties that one juror was ill and unable to attend trial that day. Since closing arguments were expected to take place, they have been delayed.

Parties are slated to reconvene when the entire jury can be present.

Judge Denies Release For Suspect Injured in Shooting

DC Superior Court Judge Lloyd Nolan denied release on April 7 for a defendant alegedly involved in two shootings that resulted in three individuals injured, including the defendant himself.

Omar James, 22, is charged with aggravated assault while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting on the 1900 block of Benning Road, NE on March 12 and another non-fatal shooting of a victim on the 2000 block of Benning Road, NE on March 14.

On March 12, according to court documents, James and another suspect were reportedly seen on surveillance footage entering Benning Market and subsequently they were both filmed running out while James appeared to be shooting back at the market. The other suspect reportedly told officers, contrary to the surveillance footage, that a group approached them from an alley and began shooting.

James sustained gunshot wounds in the elbow and finger and the other suspect sustained a gunshot wound to his groin, losing a testicle as a result.

Then on March 14, court documents state that James allegedly returned to Benning Market and got into an argument with the victim in the prior incident. Reportedly, the victim told officers another suspect handed James a handgun during the argument. James then allegedly shot the victim in the foot. The victim denied his involvement in the shooting in the days prior.

In court, James, manifesting a black sling and a bandaged finger, waived his right to a preliminary hearing, so the case will proceed without need for an official finding of probable cause. Judge Nolan accepted the waiver.

James’ attorney, Gail Engmann, argued for James’ release on 24-hour home confinement, curfew, and GPS monitoring, claiming James is not a danger to the community. According to Engmann, James was the victim in the incidents, citing his disfigured finger and wounded elbow. She noted that the prosecution informed her the night before the hearing that the victim lied to officers about not being involved in the first shooting.

Additionally, Engmann noted James had been completely compliant with the conditions of his Youth Rehabilitation Act (YRA) probation conditions in an unrelated case, which allows sentencing flexibility for defendants under 25 and the possibility for their convictions to be sealed upon successful completion of requirements.

Engmann told Judge Nolan that James is working toward his education with a semester left of high school and is looking for employment to support his pregnant girlfriend. She pointed to James’ family in the courtroom and said they will account for him while on release.

The prosecution disagreed with Engman’s account of the shootings. According to the prosecution, James allegedly heard the victim was involved in the altercation on March 12 and came to Benning Market. The prosecution claimed he intended to confront the victim, flashed what appeared to be a gun, then, without warrant, shot the victim in the foot.

Additionally, the prosecution argued that the YRA is the greatest incentive the courts have for young defendants and it is concerning James was not incentivized to avoid violating his probation.

Judge Nolan denied the request for release and ordered continued detention. He cited the probation violation and severity of the incidents as reasons.

“There are no circumstances short of incarceration that could ensure the safety of the community,” Judge Nolan said.

Parties are slated to reconvene on April 30.

Defendant in Infant’s Murder Allowed to Attend Job Interviews

DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan agreed to change home confinement orders making it easier for a homicide defendant to attend job interviews during a hearing on April 3.

Wayne Blake, 24, is charged with first-degree murder of a victim who was especially vulnerable due to age or physical infirmity and two counts of cruelty to children for his alleged involvement in the fatal beating of 18-month-old Journee Moore, on Sept. 28, 2024 on the 3700 block of Connecticut Avenue, NW.

During the hearing, Blake’s attorney, Kevin Mosley, mentioned a motion he filed on April 2 to modify Blake’s release conditions. According to Mosley, Blake is trying to seek employment opportunities but is having difficulty given the child-free restrictions, meaning he must stay away from children on his release.

According to Mosley, Blake has been applying to fast food restaurants and other service jobs where children might be present. Mosley argued that this release condition is making it more difficult for Blake to find a job.

In addition, Mosley noted Blake has no history of child abuse and is in compliance with release conditions thus far as further proof his conditions should be modified. According to court records, Judge Ryan released Blake on June 13, 2025. A Pretrial Services Agency (PSA) representative, who was virtually present, confirmed Blake’s compliance with his release conditions and home confinement.

The prosecutor objected to Mosley’s request, contending Blake shouldn’t be around children. She asked Judge Ryan for two weeks to file a response motion.

As a result, Judge Ryan told Blake he was allowed to attend the job interviews but granted the prosecutors request for two weeks to respond before officially changing his release conditions.

Parties are slated to reconvene on April 15.

Defense Challenges Mental Competency Finding for Fatal Arson Defendant

DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz ordered another mental assessment for a homicide defendant after the defense challenged his competency in an April 3 hearing.

Dayshawn Nolan, 23, is charged with second-degree murder while armed for his alleged involvement in an arson that killed Antoinette Davis at the 400 block of Condon Terrace, SE on July 3, 2022. Davis succumbed to her injuries and died on July 17, 2022.

Nolan’s attorney, Christen Philips, requested a contested competency hearing to refute the Department of Behavioral Health (DBH)’s assessment that declared Nolan to be competent to stand trial Nov. 21, 2025. Philips told Judge Kravitz that the Public Defender Service (PDS) had a third party expert assess Nolan and deemed him incompetent to stand trial.

To stand trial, Nolan must understand the charges against him and be able to assist his attorney in his defense.

“Competency is fluid,” Philips said. “There was about eight months of [Nolan] not being competent.”

The prosecution argued the defense is using competency “almost as a weapon,” possibly pushing back the trial date by continuous competency checks.

Additionally, the prosecution claimed requests sent to Nolan to move the case forward were “widely unanswered.”. The purpose of the present hearing, the prosecution told Judge Kravitz, was to resolve the case in “good faith” effort. “This can’t happen when emails are being ignored,” the prosecution said.

“I appreciate your frustrations,” Judge Kravitz said but “I encourage you to be more thorough. I would discourage you from assuming the worst, people are busy.”

Judge Kravitz ordered another full mental competency assessment from DBH to be done at the DC Jail. According to the judge, DBH was supposed to check Nolan’s competency weekly, however, the defense claimed the check-ins were not occurring. Judge Kravitz agreed to reach out to DBH about the situation.

Parties are slated to reconvene on May 1.

Judge Grants Defense Request For Mental Competency Screening in Stabbing Case

DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz ordered a mental competency screening for a stabbing defendant on April 3.

Corey Bridges, 31, is charged with assault with intent to kill while armed, assault with significant bodily injury while armed, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, threatening to injure or kidnap a person, and assault with a dangerous weapon, tampering with physical evidence for his alleged involvement in the non-fatal stabbing of a victim at 1400 block of Morse Street, NE on June 7, 2025. The victim sustained multiple lacerations to his neck.

In court, Bridges’ attorney, Molly Bunke, asked Judge Kravitz to order a competency screening, an examination of a defendant’s current mental state determining whether they can understand court proceedings enough. To stand trial, Bridges must be able to understand the charges against him and assist his attorneys in his defense.

Judge Kravitz agreed, and ordered Bridges undergo an evaluation with the Department of Behavioral Health (DBH).

Parties are slated to reconvene on April 9.

‘This Whole Case is About Choices,’ Defense Says in Triple-Homicide Closings

Parties presented their closing arguments both focused on the issue of choice in a jury trial for a triple-homicide defendant before DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt on April 2.

Nakita Walker, 46, is charged with three counts of second-degree murder, assault with a dangerous weapon, and fleeing a law enforcement officer. The charges stem from her alleged involvement in a fatal car crash that killed Mohamed Kamara, 43, Jonathan Cabrera Mendez, 23, and Olvin Josue Torres Velasquez, 22, on March 15, 2023 on Rock Creek Parkway, NW.

The prosecution’s closing statement framed the incident as a series of choices made by Walker. Walker chose to drive under the influence, to flee a law enforcement officer, and to drive at an “indefensible” speed, asserted prosecutors.

The prosecution outlined the evidence and witness testimony they presented throughout the trial, including data that Walker was driving at an extremely high speed when she collided with Kamara’s vehicle and video evidence of her vehicle moving at a high speed after she was warned to slow down by a police officer.

Prosecutors directed the jury’s attention to evidence that Walker was under the influence of alcohol during the crash, and asked jurors to consider this in addition to Walker’s speeding.

Walker’s attorney, Albert Amissah, said justice for the victims in this case was equally important as justice for Walker.

“This whole case is about choices,” Amissah said. He claimed that the prosecution called two witnesses to testify whose credibility was questionable because they were both under the influence of substances at the time of the incident. Amissah also noted the prosecution granted one of those witnesses immunity for marijuana possession charges, removing his legal liability for a drug charge. He asked the jury to consider the witness’ immunity might be motivation for him to lie.

Amissah questioned the evidence and witness testimonies brought by the prosecution, including blood samples he claimed were improperly preserved and could have produced inaccurate blood alcohol results. He questioned why prosecutors did not call hospital staff to testify about how Walker appeared in the hospital on the night of the incident.

According to Amissah, a toxicology report showed that Kamara had enough alcohol in his system to be considered under the influence if he drove a commercial vehicle. Kamara was driving a Ride Share on the night of the crash, which would be considered a commercial vehicle.

Amissah claimed that the prosecution did not account for Walker’s injuries in their argument and failed to note that Walker sustained multiple fractures and a lacerated lung as a result of the collision.

In conclusion, Amissah told the jury, “Justice for the victims cannot mean injustice for Walker.”

The prosecution insisted the immunity granted to their witness would not protect him from the consequences of lying in court. They also contested Amissah’s statement about how the prosecution they chose their witnesses, saying that they could only call people present at the scene of the incident, aside from the expert witnesses.

Additionally, the prosecution denied ignoring Walker’s injuries, acknowledging that her injuries were consistent with a car crash. They said that hospital staff and the blood test results from the hospital both indicated that Walker was impaired on the night of the incident, and that none of the evidence related to the blood tests indicated improper preservation.

The prosecution concluded by reminding the jury of the importance of looking at the evidence and the law before making their decision.

Parties will reconvene when the jury reaches a verdict.

Judge Releases Teen Carjacking Defendant With Gunshot Injuries

DC Superior Court Judge Judith Pipe granted release for a teen carjacking defendant with gunshot wounds on March 27.

Kurt Downs, 17, is charged with armed carjacking and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in an incident at the 2700 block of Marrion Barry Avenue, SE on March 8.

Downs is charged under Title 16, which allows prosecutors to try juveniles as adults for certain serious offenses.

According to court documents, Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officers detained Downs after he allegedly matched a lookout description for an armed carjacking. While escorting him to the MPD station, officers said they noticed that Downs limping. Downs reportedly told the police that he recently suffered from gunshot wounds and needed to change his bandages.

At the hearing, Down’s attorney, Quiana Harris, told the court that she needed to step down from the case, for reasons discussed under seal. Instead, Gemma Stevens will represent Down’s going forward.

According to a motion filed by Harris, the Public Defender Service (PDS) represents another defendant in a case in which Downs is the victim. Therefore, Harris withdrew because of a PDS conflict of interests.

In the motion, Harris also mentioned the medical issues Downs was experiencing as a result of several gunshot wounds. Harris requested Down’s release at the hearing.

Judge Pipe said that she was concerned about the lack of medical attention that Downs could receive at the Youth Services Center (YSC) at the Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services (DYRS) for the metal rod in his leg.

The prosecutor said that Down’s injuries did not prevent him from allegedly stealing a victim’s car, so he does not see why it should be a concern now.

However, Judge Pipe was not convinced that the prosecution had strong enough evidence that tied Downs to the incident. The only person that identified Downs from the security footage was a detective who identified him based on his clothing, the prosecutor said.

Judge Pipe placed Downs on home confinement, with the exception of school, medical appointments, and hearings. Any violation of conditions would result in his detainment.

The prosecutor requested that Judge Pipe issue a stay-away order from the victim and the offense location, which was granted.

Judge Pipe noted that the case was improperly filed under Title 16 as an armed carjacking given the circumstances. If the prosecution does not file a proper complaint to a charge permissible under Title 16, Judge Pipe said that she will dismiss the case.

Parties are slated to reconvene on April 28.

Teen Homicide Defendant Remains Compliant With Release Conditions

A 16-year-old homicide defendant demonstrated compliance while on release in a hearing on April 2 before DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan.

Keyonte Johnson, 16, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed for his alleged involvement in a shooting that resulted in the death of 20-year-old Roy Bennett Jr. at the 300 block of Morse Street, NE on Dec. 5, 2025. Bennett sustained seven gunshot wounds to his head, chest, shoulder, and forearm.

Johnson is charged under Title 16, which allows prosecutors to try juveniles as adults for certain serious offenses.

According to a representative from the Pretrial Services Agency (PSA), Johnson reported to orientation and has been in full compliance.

Judge Ryan released Johnson on March 26 in light of his health. According to Johnson’s attorney, Jesse Winograd, Johnson was able to attend several medical appointments and intends to continue receiving treatment.

Winograd also noted Johnson’s wish to return to school. However, Judge Ryan stated his intent to wait until the next hearing, saying he wants to see more compliance.

Before leaving, Judge Ryan said to Johnson “Please keep up the good work. It is very very important you stay compliant.”

The parties are scheduled to reconvene on May 6.

Defendant Waives Insanity Defense in Fatal Beating Case

A defendant charged in a fatal beating, formally waived his right to an insanity defense during a hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park on April 2.

Walter Parker, 49, is charged with first-degree murder of a senior citizen, unlawful discharge of a firearm, unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction, and three counts of destruction of property less than 1,000 dollars for his alleged involvement in the fatal beating of 77-year-old Bernard Williams on the 400 block of M Street, SE, on April 23, 2025. Williams succumbed to his injuries on April 28, 2025.

Parker’s attorney, Howard McEachern, informed Judge Park that he would not proceed with an insanity argument. Judge Park placed Parker under oath to evaluate his competency and understanding of the law regarding insanity defenses.

Judge Park said that an insanity argument would require the defense to prove that, due to mental illness, Parker could not distinguish between right and wrong during the incident.

When asked if Parker wished to raise the insanity defense, Parker replied, “no.” Judge Park, confirmed that the waiver was made knowingly and voluntarily, noting that that the decision can’t be changed later.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on Oct. 15.

Popeyes Stabbing Defendant is Found Mentally Competent

A stabbing defendant was found competent to stand trial before DC Superior Court Judge Carmen McLean on April 1 but remains detained.

Sarita Middleton, 45, is charged with two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon for her alleged involvement in a stabbing at a Popeyes on the 1700 block of Columbia Road, NW on Feb. 11.

During the hearing, Judge McLean stated she received a report from the DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) finding Middleton competent to stand trial. To stand trial a defendant must understand the charges and be able to help in their defense.

Middleton’s attorney, Russell Hairston, requested Judge McLean release Middleton pending trial. Hairston argued that Middleton’s criminal record was minimal, stemming from her mental health issues.

According to Hairston, Middleton is taking medication and is eligible for Specialized Supervision Team (SST) services provided by the Pretrial Services Agency (PSA). SST would provide support for Middleton with getting specialized services and supervision for her mental health.

Judge McLean stated she will not visit the decision to hold Middleton because she has not had enough time to review the previous ruling. She plans to address this matter at the next hearing.

Parties are slated to reconvene on April 24.

Judge Rules to Detain ‘Serial Offender’ in Stabbing and Sex Abuse Case

DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman ruled on April 2 to detain a “serial offender,” a stabbing and sex abuse defendant.

Micheal Louis, 60, is charged with assault with intent to commit first degree sexual abuse while armed in connection to his alleged involvement in stabbing of a victim at the 400 block of Florida Avenue, NE on Oct. 2, 2023. The victim sustained a laceration to her leg.

Louis is also charged with first degree sexual abuse while armed in connection to his alleged involvement in the sexual abuse of another victim while brandishing a knife on Feb. 14, 2023.

According to court documents, the victim reported being intoxicated outside of a bar on Oct. 2, 2023, when Louis approached her and invited her to ride on his scooter to his apartment. When they arrived, Louis allegedly asked her to bend over and picked up a knife when the victim refused. The victim said she fought back and escaped, calling 911, and leaving with a cut on the back of her leg and bites on her hand and shoulder.

In court, Louis waived his right to a preliminary hearing, meaning parties will move forward in the case without presenting evidence for and against probable cause.

Following the waiver, the prosecution argued to keep Louis in jail, calling him a “serial offender.” According to the prosecution, Louis was on supervised release for a 1999 sexual assault case when both the assault and sexual abuse incident occurred. He was released from prison in 2020.

The prosecution noted each incident involved strangers, a continued pattern since his 1999 case. Louis’ alleged actions on supervised release pose him as a danger to the community, asserted prosecutors.

Louis’ attorney, Michelle Stevens, focused on Feb. 14, 2023 sexual abuse case. She said the situation was “not as we say, ‘stranger danger’” and in both cases, the women went into Louis’ home. Additionally, she questioned the reliability of the sexual abuse victim’s account, saying she wanted to “speak carefully about this case,” paused, and “while there is DNA evidence from the first encounter, there is not DNA where one would expect it to be. It’s on the neck.” The sexual abuse case reportedly involves vaginal involvement and forced oral copulation.

Judge Edelman considered the reliability of the accounts, saying the “facts of this case are very complicated,” with one victim having some reliability issues and the other being intoxicated.

“This case is more about danger than it is flight risk,” Judge Edelman said, considering the reasons for detention. According to the prosecution, Louis had failed to report he had changed addresses following a rent issue.

Judge Edelman acknowledged the series of incidents, from the 1999 case, another 1998 assault case in Fairfax, and the two incidents before him. The case is “very serious and disturbing,” Judge Edelman said. He ruled for continued detention.

The parties set a date to discuss negotiations of a plea.

Parties are slated to reconvene on April 24.

Judge Releases Defendant to Home Confinement in 15-Year-Old Shooting Case

DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman released a shooting defendant accused of a 2010 shooting to home confinement after finding he was not a risk to the community on April 3.

Terry Greene, 35, is charged with assault with intent to kill while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in the non-fatal shooting of a man on the 5800 block of Fields Place, NE, on June 17, 2010. The victim suffered multiple gunshot wounds to the body.

Judge Edelman said he received and reviewed records from the Maryland Department of Corrections relating to Greene’s incarceration there. According to Judge Edelman, the records showed no violent conduct or contraband weapons violations.

The prosecutor requested Judge Edelman consider the nature of the offense and not alter Greene’s confinement.

Judge Edelman noted that, while he did find probable cause Greene committed the crime, it has been more than 15 years since the incident. This weakened the assumption that Greene was a risk to the community, Judge Edelman said.

Greene had strong family support at his prior hearings, according to Judge Edelman, and Greene’s family was present in the courtroom.

Judge Edelman granted Greene’s release on home confinement with a GPS monitor to be attached before he left the courthouse. Greene will live with his wife and will only be allowed to leave for medical appointments, meetings with his lawyer, court hearings, or verified employment purposes.

Greene is not allowed to own dangerous weapons, firearms, or simulations, said Judge Edelman.

Judge Edelman told Greene restrictions could be relaxed if he is complaint, but he could be sent back to jail if he violates the conditions of his release.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on July 10.

Pending Global Plea Could Erase Jail Stabbing Case

A jail stabbing defendant received a plea offer in a separate, U.S. District Court case that could dismiss another matter before DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman on April 2.

Cedae Hardy, 21, is charged with assault with intent to kill while armed in connection to his alleged involvement in a stabbing at the DC Jail on the 1900 block of D Street, SE on Oct. 12, 2025. The victim sustained 10 wounds.

Chidi Ogolo, Hardy’s defense attorney, notified the court there is a possible global resolution–a plea that combines the District Court case with the one pending in DC Superior Court–that would terminate the stabbing case. However, Ogolo isn’t aware of the details.

The prosecution informed the defense and Judge Kravitz that the the District Court case is working separately from Ogolo’s. Judge Edelman asked about an approximate timeline for a decision, but the prosecutor couldn’t provide a specific date.

Judge Edelman set another hearing three weeks out to give time for the other case to resolve.

Parties are slated to reconvene on April 20.

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