‘What No One Expects, and No One Deserves, is to Get Shot At,’ Says Prosecution in Closing Arguments

The prosecution concluded their case against a non-fatal shooting defendant with the testimony of a detective in a jury trial on July 23 before DC Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur.

Marcus Reavenell, 48, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction greater than one year, unlawful discharge of a firearm, reckless driving, and destruction of property less than $1,000 for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting. The shooting occurred at the intersection of 58th and Foote Streets, NE, on May 14, 2025. No injuries were reported.

The prosecution continued with the testimony of a Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) detective, who was shown footage captured by the victim’s vehicle of an individual displaying a handgun outside the driver’s side window of a white van.

The detective confirmed that he had identified mail addressed to Reavenell found inside of the van. He stated that he had then obtained a search warrant to go to the location listed on the mail, but was told by a resident that Reavenell did not live there. The detective was unable to find any other addresses for Reavenell.

Reavenell’s attorney, Michael Bruckheim, continued with a cross-examination. Bruckheim established that one piece of mail addressed to Reavenell was found in the van but was only photographed, not collected. In addition, Bruckheim emphasized that documents inside the van were never tested for DNA or fingerprints.

In direct examination, the detective said the resident at the address told the police that the address was used as a mail drop. A mail drop is a third-party street or mailing address used to retrieve mail instead of a personal address.

In regards to the white van, Bruckheim confirmed with the detective that the vehicle was not registered to Reavenell. The detective admitted he never spoke with the individual who the white van was registered to and could not locate her.

The prosecution asked the detective if he tried to get in contact with the vehicle’s registered owner, and he said that there had been attempts but they were unsuccessful. He also noted that investigators did not associate the vehicle with anyone other than the registered owner.

Bruckheim confirmed with the detective that a bullet fragment was recovered from the scene, but no shell casings or firearm was found.

In the identification process, Bruckheim verified that two among three of Reavenell’s coworkers were shown a video of the incident and a photo of Reavenell but were not able to make an identification. The third coworker identified Reavenell from the video only, according to the detective.

The detective identified the weapon seen on footage from the victim’s vehicle as a revolver. He explained that shell casings remain in the cylinder instead of automatically ejecting, which is typical for a traditional gun magazine.

In closing arguments, the prosecution explained to the jury that the victim was on his daily commute when the incident occurred. They told the jury that when driving to work, “what no one expects, and no one deserves, is to get shot at.”

Prosecutors argued that the mail found in the van with Reavenell’s name on it proved his ownership. They also played a video from Reavenell’s instagram account in which they claimed the white van from the shooting was visible, along with Reavenell. They argued that the white van had the same visible damage and license plate seen in photos taken at the police impound.

In addition, prosecutors showed a text message that Reavenell reportedly sent, in which he told someone “my detail van was stolen from my job last night.” According to prosecutors, the message was sent after the van was towed and collected as evidence by MPD officers.

Reavenell’s driver’s license photo was shown to the jury alongside a still photo from the victim’s vehicle camera. Prosecutors argued that the person in the picture from the footage was Reavenell, and urged the jury to trust their “own eyes.” The prosecution added that Reavenell’s coworker identified him.

In his closing argument, Bruckheim argued that the prosecutors failed to fully investigate the crime, and asserted to the jury that the prosecution’s evidence was not sufficient enough to prove Reavenell’s guilt beyond reasonable doubt.

Bruckheim explained that DNA swabs and fingerprints were taken from the van, but did not have any tests conducted on them by investigators.

In addition, Bruckheim emphasized the legal ownership of the van and that MPD or prosecutors never contacted the owner. Bruckheim also noted that Reavenell’s coworkers were not asked what vehicle he drove.

According to Bruckheim, there was no firearm recovered that was related to the shooting and no one was questioned about Reavenell’s whereabouts on the day of the incident.

Bruckheim explained to the jury that if pieces of the prosecution’s puzzle don’t fit, then there is no proof beyond reasonable doubt to find Reavenell guilty.

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

Teen Co-Defendant Held in Case of Shooting Near School

DC Superior Court Judge Charmetra Jackson Parker found probable cause and ordered the continued hold of a 17-year-old defendant accused of shooting two teenagers outside a DC charter school.

Damien Mowrer, 17, and Jekhi Wade, 18, are charged with robbery while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for their alleged involvement in a shooting on the 4400 block of 11th Street, NW, near E.L. Haynes Public Charter School on July 21.

Mowrer is charged under Title 16, which allows juveniles to be tried as adults for certain serious offenses.

According to court documents, Mowrer and Wade allegedly arranged to buy a Louis Vuitton bag for $200 from the victims, whom they reportedly met on Instagram. School security reportedly moved the group off campus to a sidewalk on 7th Street, NW, where one defendant allegedly pulled a gun before a struggle ensued over the bag, and both victims were shot.

The victims were found in the rear parking lot area of the school, on the 4500 block of Kansas Avenue, NW. One victim sustained two shots to his arm and a graze wound to his left chest, while the second victim sustained a shot to his abdomen.

Mowrer and Wade were scheduled to have a joint preliminary hearing. However, Lisbeth Sapirstein, Wade’s attorney, requested a continuance, citing a lack of time to prepare.

The prosecution argued it was a waste of time to hold separate preliminary hearings for the same set of facts. However, Mowrer’s attorney, Theodore Shaw, responded that “It happens all the time, it’s not the first co-defendant trial.”

Judge Parker granted Sapirstein’s request for continuance, while Mowrer’s preliminary hearing continued as scheduled.

A responding Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officer testified that GPS data from Mowrer’s ankle monitor reportedly placed him at the crime scene and tracked his return to his residence, where his grandmother allegedly identified him from surveillance footage.

In a search warrant of Mowrer’s residence, the officer said MPD recovered a Louis Vuitton bag that reportedly matched the stolen bag. MPD also recovered a pair of Nike sneakers that the officer claimed matched those in a photo from a Lime scooter rental reportedly linked to the co-defendants.

In cross-examination, Shaw noted neither victim had formally identified Mowrer as a suspect, no footage showed him holding or firing a weapon, and the two victims provided conflicting accounts of how many suspects were armed.

Judge Parker found probable cause and emphasized that the stolen bag was recovered from Mowrer’s residence and the victims were the owners of the stolen property.

Shaw then argued for Mowrer’s release, citing a stable home, no criminal history, and an offer of home confinement.

The prosecution countered that Mowrer was already under GPS supervision for a prior offense when the incident occurred. Judge Parker ruled the severity of the victims’ injuries and the firearm involved outweighed the defense’s arguments and ordered Mowrer to remain held.

Parties for Wade are scheduled to reconvene on Aug. 12, and parties for Mowrer are scheduled to reconvene on Aug. 18.

Judge Issues Bench Warrant for Stabbing Defendant’s Probation Violations, Missed Appearance

DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz issued a bench warrant on July 24 to arrest a domestic stabbing defendant who allegedly violated his probation and failed to appear in court.

Gabriel Esquina, 23, is on probation for aggravated assault knowingly for the non-fatal stabbing of his father on the 2800 block of Myrtle Avenue, NE on Jan. 26, 2022. The victim sustained a stab wound to his abdomen.

According to court documents, the incident began as an argument and Esquina’s father was hospitalized twice due to his life-threatening injuries.

Esquina’s Community Supervision Officer (CSO) from the Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency (CSOSA), said she has not heard from him since May 26 and that he had not appeared for mandated meetings.

A bench warrant is a court order for law enforcement to arrest an individual and bring them before a judge.

Esquina pleaded guilty in May 2022 and was sentenced in September 2022. He served four out of the five years in prison he was initially sentenced to, and is now completing a year of probation.

As part of his probation conditions, Esquina was ordered to complete community service, anger management classes, and mental health treatment.

Esquina was also originally ordered to stay away from his family, though Judge Kravitz modified those conditions in March. The judge ruled that Esquina could maintain contact with his parents, per their wishes.

The parties are scheduled to reconvene when US Marshals execute the warrant.

Fatal Hit-and-Run Defendant Pleads Not Guilty at Arraignment

A homicide defendant was arraigned and pleaded not guilty in DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan’s courtroom on July 31.

Jalen McLendon, 33, is charged with second-degree murder while armed and fleeing a law enforcement officer for his alleged involvement in a fatal hit-and-run that killed 25-year-old Alpha Kake on Aug. 31, 2024 at the intersection of 15th and L Streets, NW. Kake was riding a moped scooter when he was hit and later succumbed to his injuries on Oct. 1, 2024.

According to court documents, on the night of the incident, an officer patrolling downtown DC attempted to pull McLendon over for reportedly driving with his headlights off. McLendon allegedly fled the traffic stop in his car, which led to a chase.

As McLendon reportedly ran a red light, he allegedly struck Kake, but continued driving. McLendon was arrested more than a year after the incident, on Nov. 4, 2025.

At the time of his arrest, McLendon, a Metro bus driver, was charged with second-degree murder.

At McLendon’s arraignment, Kevin Robertson, his attorney, waived the formal reading of the charges, pleaded not guilty on McLendon’s behalf, and asserted his client’s rights to a fair and speedy trial.

McLendon is currently on release with GPS monitoring. He was released in November 2025, and there have been no reported violations of his release conditions.

The prosecution said they expected to have more evidence shared with the defense in this case soon after the hearing.

Parties are set to reconvene on Aug. 31.

Evidence Detailed in Fatal Stabbing Trial

The prosecution called five witnesses to testify about DNA and blood and bodily fluid samples in a homicide trial before DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz on July 30.

Vanessa Bonaparte, 34, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder and destruction of property worth more than $1,000. The charges stem from a June 22, 2024 incident in which Bonaparte allegedly stabbed Dwayne Boyd, 31, with two kitchen knives on the 3500 block of East Capitol Street, SE.

Prosecutors called two serologists who study fluid evidence from Signature Science in Austin, Texas to testify about the presence of blood across various parts of the apartment murder scene.

The witnesses explained the process of isolating prospective blood samples and using a series of chemicals to detect whether or not blood was present. In the present case, the testing included samples from window panes, walls, kitchen floors, a bedroom doorknob, and slippers. In addition, the forensic technicians tested a sample of Boyd’s fingernail clippings. The witnesses confirmed that blood was present in each of the aforementioned testing locations.

The prosecution also called two evidence technicians from Signature Science to the stand who assisted in serology procedures and DNA collection in the case.

In addition, the prosecution called another analyst from Signature Science who explained that the prosecution sent him reference DNA samples from “people of interest,” as well as Bonaparte and Boyd, to compare to swabs from the crime scene.

The analyst used a software called STRmix to run a statistical analysis on blood swabs from the scene, concluding they were likely Boyd’s. In addition, in samples from a slipper the analyst found evidence of DNA from three individuals with one male contributor. He concluded one of the contributors was likely Bonaparte.

In cross examination Bonaparte’s attorney, Kevann Gardner, asked the analyst to define the term “people of interest.” The witness explained that it is a label they place on reference samples when comparing DNA and it is not equivalent to a suspect in a crime.

The trial is slated to continue on Aug. 3.

Repeat Offender Receives 8 Years in Prison for Shooting

DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt sentenced a defendant to eight years in prison for a 2024 shooting at a hearing on July 24.

Derrick Gladden, 55, was convicted on March 11 for aggravated assault knowingly while armed, possession of a firearm during crime of violence, unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction greater than one year, and unlawful possession of ammunition for his involvement in a shooting at the 2300 block of Marion Barry Avenue, SE on April 15, 2024. The victim sustained a gunshot wound to the shoulder.

At Gladden’s sentencing, the prosecution noted his “strikingly dangerous violent criminal history.” They said Gladden’s two most serious offenses include convictions for manslaughterand the sexual assault of a 12-year-old in 1996.

The prosecution also emphasized that if it were not for a new life saving treatment used by DC Emergency Medical Services (EMS), which was not available just one month before, the victim would reportedly have died. They also added that witnesses of the shooting said it was “out of the blue” without explanation or justification.

Lastly, the prosecution asked Judge Brandt to run the sentence for the aggravated assault and the possession of a firearm during a crime of violence to be charged consecutively. They also argued that Gladden’s claim of the victim brandishing a knife was a lie. “Nobody saw a knife because there was no knife,” said the prosecutor.

Gladden’s attorney, Alvin Thomas, disputed the prosecution’s claims. Thomas said that the sexual assault victim was not a minor, and that the prosecution’s claim that the EMS treatment saved the victim’s life was speculation. According to Thomas, a witness testified about the victim possessing a knife in the days surrounding the shooting.

Gladden’s father-in-law spoke on behalf of about 12 family members who were present that day to support him. The father-in-law said that he would not have let Gladden marry his daughter if he thought he was a bad man.

Gladen also spoke, explaining his work to improve himself while in jail and reiterating that his actions resulted from a knife being pulled on him. He also spoke about his family and said “I wanna be a part of their lives but I can’t do that from jail.”

Judge Brandt noted “Mr. Gladden has a very lengthy and sordid criminal history.” “That’s a statement of fact,” said Judge Brandt.

In addition Judge Brandt said “there is one video that speaks volumes to the court.” After shooting the victim whom he considered a friend, “Mr Gladden calmly leaves,” emphasized Judge Brandt. Gladden walked past the EMS workers and continued on with his day. “That’s cold, that’s straight up cold natured,” concluded the judge.

Judge Brandt also said that there are many homicide defendants who receive less than the 240 months sentence the prosecution asked for Gladden to serve. In addition, the jury acquitted Gladden of assault with intent to kill while armed.

Judge Brandt sentenced Gladden to eight total years in prison. Five years for aggravated assault, five years for possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and six months for unlawful possession of ammunition, to be served concurrently.

Additionally, Gladden will serve three consecutive years for unlawful possession of a firearm.

After his prison sentence, Gladden will be on supervised release for five years and must register as a gun offender in DC.

No further dates were set.

‘Do Good Things in the Name of Mr. Woody,’ Says Judge, Imposing 18 year Homicide Sentence

DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt sentenced a fatal stabbing defendant to 18 years in prison on July 31.

Kevin Johnson, 40, pleaded guilty on Feb. 24 to second-degree murder while armed for his involvement in the fatal stabbing of 44-year-old Antonio Woody on Oct. 6, 2024, on the 1700 block of Lincoln Road, NE. Woody sustained five stab wounds.

The plea agreement included a sentencing range of 18-to-23 years in prison, subject to Judge Brandt’s approval.

In their sentencing request, prosecutors clarified that Johnson, Woody, and bystanders were all living in a homeless shelter at the time. The prosecutors noted that, according to a witness, Johnson reportedly said, “Someone’s not going to go back in tonight,” before the incident occurred.

Prosecutors argued that Johnson had been “bullying” Woody. They asserted that, because Woody was wheelchair bound, Johnson “preyed upon” a vulnerable victim.

In surveillance footage from the incident, prosecutors pointed out that Johnson approached Woody and stabbed him five times as he fell from his wheelchair in an attempt to escape. They also highlighted the “callous way” that Johnson left the scene, throwing Woody’s phone away in the sewer.

Prosecutors requested 23 years of imprisonment, arguing that a “rough childhood” and any mental health conditions do “not mitigate this conduct.”

Johnson’s attorney, Elizabeth Weller, argued that it was “just not accurate” to describe Johnson as a bully, claiming that other witnesses did not agree.

Weller highlighted that Johnson was “brutally beaten” in a fight that occurred earlier that day, and he was “not in his right mind” at the time of the incident. She claimed that this incident is not “who he has shown himself to be.”

She clarified that Johnson is not receiving “a great benefit” through his plea agreement, as the original guidelines for the charge are 14-to-26 years.

Weller characterized Johnson as “someone who has had a really difficult life,” and pointed out that he was originally “hopeful” when he arrived at the shelter that he would have resources he needed, but ended up being wrongly treated for a mental illness.

Weller requested 18 years of imprisonment, as well as drug and mental health treatment, anger management, and vocational training while Johnson is serving his sentence.

“I hope I get the help I really need,” Johnson said.

Judge Brandt classified this case as stemming from Johnson’s “anger” getting “the better of him.” She indicated that the offense seemed to be a “one off” as opposed to who he actually is as a person.

She sentenced Johnson to 18 years, with five years of supervised release. While serving his sentence, he will be required to complete drug and mental health treatment, anger management, and vocational training.

“Do good things in the name of Mr. Woody,” Judge Brandt said.

No further dates were set.

Judge Sentences Popeyes Stabbing Defendant

DC Superior Court Judge Carmen McLean sentenced a stabbing defendant to 18 months in prison, with all but six months suspended, on July 24.

Sarita Middleton, 45, pleaded guilty on April 28 to attempted assault with a dangerous weapon for her involvement in a non-fatal stabbing at a Popeyes restaurant on the 1700 block of Columbia Road, NW on Feb. 11. The victim sustained a small one-inch laceration.

The prosecutor asked Judge McLean to sentence Middleton to two years in prison, with all but one year suspended, three years of supervised release, and 18 months of supervised probation. They also requested that the judge restrict Middleton’s access to the Popeyes.

The prosecution said Middleton threatened a juvenile Popeyes employee with a large kitchen knife, culminating in the store manager sustaining a small laceration to their wrist. They also mentioned Middleton’s three decade long criminal history, but did not provide specifics.

Middleton’s attorney, Russell Hairston, said Middleton has accepted responsibility for her actions and has taken classes since her incarceration to combat her substance abuse problems.

Hairston said despite Middleton’s wishes to stay with friends, it would not be in her best interest. Instead, Hairston said Middleton would stay with her mother, who has a no drug rule in her house.

“She has come a long way, I believe she will do well on probation,” Hairston said.

Hairston said the knife Middleton had was for protection because she was a victim of domestic violence. He asked for a sentence that would allow her the opportunity to be a “productive citizen.”

Middleton spoke, expressing her remorse and acknowledging her anger management issues.

Judge McLean said she noted Middleton’s completion of an anger management course and told Middleton to seek proper treatment and not “self-medicate.”

The judge sentenced Middleton to 18 months in prison, all but six months suspended, followed by one year of probation.

For Middleton’s probation, Judge McLean required her to refrain from using alcohol and non-prescription medication. In addition, Middleton must complete substance abuse and mental health assessments, vocational training or verified employment, and six months in a drug rehabilitation program.

Judge McLean said that if Middleton fails to comply, she could serve the full one year sentenced and that reality is “hanging over [Middleton’s] head.”

No further dates were set.

Case Acquitted: Witnesses Describe Prior Domestic Disputes Between Defendant and Homicide Victim

Editor’s note: Rayvon Slye was acquitted of all charges by a jury on August 5, 2026.

Multiple witnesses described prior reported altercations between the defendant and victim in a homicide trial before DC Superior Court Judge Danya Dayson on July 29.

Rayvon Slye, 34, is charged with second-degree murder while armed for his alleged involvement in the fatal stabbing of 30-year-old Andrea Bond on March 7, 2023, on the 1000 block of D Street, NE. Bond sustained one stab wound to her upper left chest.

According to court documents, Slye and Bond were in a romantic relationship and had a child together at the time of her death. The couple was reportedly physically violent with each other on multiple occasions.

The prosecutors called a close friend of Slye’s to testify, who established that they had known each other for over 15 years. Slye’s friend was unable to recall the night before Bond’s death, although he previously stated in a 2022 grand jury that he was with Slye and Bond that night.

When asked if what he had said in his grand jury testimony was true, he claimed that, “I said whatever I said to get y’all out of my face.” He also stated that he did not know he was under oath at the time.

Slye’s friend reported to the grand jury that he picked up Slye and Bond in his Mercedes-Benz to get wine. The witness said at that time that Bond allegedly left his car and went to her home with friends. Slye’s friend claimed to the grand jury that Bond returned to the car and acted as if she was on drugs, but the witness was unable to confirm if that was true.

To the grand jury, Slye’s friend characterized Bond’s behavior as aggressive, but clarified that she did not get in a fight that night and there was no blood on his car.

When asked in the trial, Slye’s friend claimed that he had never seen Slye with a weapon and did not see Bond with a weapon the night prior to her death. The witness reported in the trial that he learned about Bond’s death after Slye told him personally that someone else killed her in Trinidad.

Slye’s attorney, Kevin Mosley, told the jury that Slye’s friend was unable to remember the events of March 6, 2023, and had to be reminded through his grand jury testimony. He also clarified that the witness was unaware of any details related to Bond’s death.

Prosecutors also called Bond’s childhood acquaintance who witnessed a previous altercation between Bond and Slye on June 2, 2022. Around 2 a.m., the witness claimed that Bond was screaming for help as she ran to the passenger side of the acquaintance’s vehicle and asked her to call the police.

The witness described Bond as “disheveled, covered in blood [and] frantic.” Prosecutors showed images of Bond with a wound on her forehead and blood on her face and clothes.

The acquaintance indicated she told Bond she and her children should leave the tristate area if she felt unsafe. According to the witness, Bond seemed to agree.

Slye’s other attorney, Kayla Wyatt, confirmed that the acquaintance had no personal knowledge of Bond’s death.

The prosecution also called Bond’s adoptive brother, although she referred to him as her uncle. The witness lived in the same house as Bond and testified about witnessing her on his couch “laying there not breathing.”

The witness described Bond as “bubbly” and “smart.” He claimed that he had only met Slye a few times and confessed that he “didn’t care for” him.

Bond’s adoptive brother reported that he had been out late the night before Bond’s death and was awakened by his mother between 12:59 p.m. to 1:43 p.m. He said that he typically would have gone back to sleep, but stated, “by looking at [his mom], I knew what was going on” and went into the living room.

The witness recalled that Bond’s forehead and shoulder were “ice cold.” He claimed that he then saw Slye enter the room with takeout food and told him to call 911.

In cross-examination, Mosley asked how much Bond’s adoptive brother knew about her drug use and relationship with Slye. The witness said that Bond did not tell him much but knew that she enjoyed drinking alcohol. Mosley pointed out that the witness previously said that Bond frequently drank alcohol and used methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), a powerful hallucinogen also known as Molly.

According to Mosley, Bond’s adoptive brother reportedly told police that he did not see any blood in their house and therefore concluded that she was stabbed elsewhere.

Prosecutors then called a Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officer who responded to a prior reported domestic violence incident between Slye and Bond on Feb. 26, 2022. The officer reported that Bond had swelling on her face, and Slye had a scratch on his face.

Prosecutors played the officer’s body-worn camera footage from the domestic dispute scene. Slye confessed in the video that he and Bond had an altercation.

The trial is slated to continue on July 30.

Fatal Shooting Defendant Held in Virginia Prison Pleads Not Guilty to 5 Counts

A shooting defendant who is currently serving a sentence outside DC pleaded not guilty to all of his charges at an arraignment before DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan while his co-defendant is on release.

Delonte Samuels, 30, is charged with conspiracy, first-degree felony murder while armed, attempt to commit robbery while armed, and two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 44-year-old Denard Hartwell. The shooting occurred on Aug. 8, 2018, on the 4400 block of Livingston Road, SE. Hartwell sustained two gunshot wounds.

Samuels’ co-defendant, 29-year-old Darrion Blake, also faces the same charges for his alleged involvement in the incident.

The court arraigned Samuels and his attorney, Peter Odom, pleaded not guilty on his behalf, requested discovery, a speedy trial, and any evidence that might be favorable to the defense.

Odom requested that Samuels be held in DC until his case is resolved as he is currently imprisoned in another facility for an unrelated offense. Judge Ryan clarified that Samuels has the right to a speedy trial within 120 days. If he is held in DC, he will have to waive that right.

Odom confirmed he will not be ready for trial in 120 days and argued that it would be unconstitutional to hold Samuels at another facility as they prepare for trial.

Prosecutors offered assistance in arranging communication between Odom and the defendant.

Parties continued the matter to allow Samuels to discuss his decision with Odom.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Sept. 11.

Defendant Accepts Guilty Plea Deal for McDonald’s Carjacking

A defendant who assaulted and carjacked a victim accepted a plea deal before DC Superior Court Judge Deborah Israel on July 23.

Bryan Cooper, 36, was originally charged with unarmed carjacking and assault with intent to commit robbery for his involvement in a carjacking at a McDonald’s on the 2300 block of Georgia Avenue, NW on May 25.

According to court documents, Cooper approached the victim while he was sitting in his vehicle, punched him in the face, and drove away in the victim’s car.

At the hearing, Cooper pleaded guilty to one count of robbery. Under the plea agreement, the prosecution will not seek sentencing enhancements, dismiss the remaining charges, not seek an indictment with additional or greater charges, and agree to limit their sentence request at the midpoint of the sentencing guidelines.

Cooper was arraigned on the new charge and waived his right to independently test the DNA evidence against him.

Had the case gone to trial, the prosecution stated they would have proven beyond a reasonable doubt that Cooper assaulted the victim and stole his vehicle from a McDonald’s parking lot.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Oct. 30 for Cooper’s sentencing.

Police Officer Recalls Suspect With a ‘Deer In The Headlights Look,’ After Fleeing Scene

DC Superior Court Judge Heide Herrmann found probable cause in a shooting case after an officer’s testimony on July 23.

Da’Wan Salters, 26, is charged with endangerment with a firearm in a public place, unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction, unlawful discarding of a firearm or ammunition, and carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business for his alleged involvement in a shooting on July 18 at the 1500 and 1600 blocks of Butler Street, SE, resulting in the recovery of 38 rounds as well as damages to three vehicles.

At Salters’ preliminary hearing, the prosecution called a patrol officer from the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) to testify. He recalled responding to suspects fleeing from a reported shooting.

In cross-examination, Gail Engmann, Salters’ attorney, asked the officer what role he played in the investigation and arrest. He spoke to two witnesses, security officers who were nearby, and his partners on his scene.

One of the security officers reported that he heard gunshots then saw a man with his arms outstretched with a firearm and muzzle flashing. According to the patrol officer, the security officer believed he saw a black male with dreads wearing a white tank top.

The security officer reported then running into an alley after the suspect and watching him entering the passenger side of a black SUV with unknown Virginia plates.

The other security officer made a statement to MPD that the firearm was in proximity of the vehicle that fled the scene, said the patrol officer.

When Engmann asked if the first security officer told the MPD patrol officer the skin complexion or build of the suspect, he could not recall. He also couldn’t recall if officers saw another suspect shooting.

The MPD officer recalled canvassing for five minutes before finding the suspect vehicle, and two men inside “appearing to be nervous and sweaty.” The officer noted that they had a “deer in the headlights look.” Police also noticed suspected gunshot damage to the rear window.

According to court documents, the driver then fled officers before finally reaching a dead end.

Engmann argued that the court shouldn’t find probable cause due to the shooting occurring in the nighttime and the officer giving what Engmann referred to as an “incredibly generic description.”

However, the officer provided a detailed account of events, including the reports of two security officers, the vehicle that was involved, and identifying Salters as the suspect in the courtroom. Judge Herrmann found probable cause in this case.

Judge Herrmann then denied Salters’ release, considering he was on probation for possession charges in Maryland at the time of this incident.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Aug. 31.

Co-Defendants Plead Not Guilty to New Year’s Day Shooting

Three co-defendants in a shooting case were arraigned and pleaded not guilty to all charges before DC Superior Court Judge Deborah Israel on July 28.

David Holland, 45, Spo Willie Pyles, 43, and Carlos Mcnair, 44, are charged with unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction greater than a year, carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business, unlawful possession of ammunition, and possession of an unregistered firearm.

Holland and Pyles are additionally charged with another count of possession of an unregistered firearm, endangerment with a firearm, and unlawful discharge of a firearm.

Holland is also accused of unlawful discarding of a firearm or ammunition. Pyles is also charged with possession of an open container of alcohol.

These charges stem from their alleged involvement in a shooting that occurred on the unit block of Atlantic Street, SE, on Jan. 1. No injuries were sustained.

Pyles and Holland’s cases were dismissed on March 11 because the court could not find probable cause. Their cases were reopened on July 1, after a grand jury found probable cause to issue an indictment against them.

At the hearing, all three defendants were arraigned and pleaded not guilty to the charges. Their attorneys asserted their rights to a speedy trial and evidence in their case.

Prosecutors explained to the court that they are still deciding whether they want to extend plea offers or proceed to trial.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Oct. 2.

Judge Denies Defense Request for Mistrial in Murder Trial

DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz denied a defense request for a mistrial in a fatal stabbing case after disputed testimony from a key witness on July 29.

Vanessa Bonaparte, 34, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed and destruction of property valued at $1,000 or more for her alleged involvement in the fatal stabbing of her former romantic interest, 31-year-old Dwayne Boyd, on June 22, 2024, in the 3500 block of East Capitol Street, SE. Boyd sustained two stab wounds.

Without jurors in the courtroom, defense attorneys Kevann Gardner and Roderick Thompson moved for a mistrial after prosecutors read grand jury testimony from Boyd’s romantic partner. In the grand jury testimony, the witness said Bonaparte threatened to retrieve weapons from storage. Gardner and Thompson argued that the statement had not been admitted into evidence and should have been excluded from the trial.

Judge Kravitz denied the motion, finding the defense had advance notice of the testimony and multiple opportunities to object before it was presented to jurors.

In previous testimony, Boyd’s romantic partner claimed she was his fiancée. As Thompson began his cross-examination, Boyd’s romantic partner was visibly emotional while describing the night he proposed to her.

Thompson then accused the witness of not actually being engaged to Boyd because he had a wife. According to Thompson, the wife recently went to court and yelled at the witness, claiming she was involved in Boyd’s murder.

The romantic partner told Thompson she could not recall the answers to many of the defense’s questions. Thompson questioned the credibility of the witness, asking, “You’re reluctant to testify because of all the lies you’ve told?”

The romantic partner asked Thompson, “Are you going to ask questions about this case or are we going to waste more time?”

The romantic partner had been held by law enforcement for failing to appear in court to testify on July 27. Thompson showed body-worn camera footage of law enforcement executing a bench warrant and finding the witness standing in a bathtub.

Thompson also pointed out that the witness had asked the prosecution for money for transportation, cigarettes, and housing assistance in exchange for her testimony. The prosecution later clarified that despite her request, she received no financial assistance.

Finally, Thompson asked the witness about a fight between Boyd and herself on June 7, 2024. During this fight, the romantic partner alleged Boyd choked her and slammed her head into the ground.

In her redirect examination, the romantic partner explained her failure to previously appear in court. She said she had taken sleeping pills the night before she was supposed to testify and slept through the day. When law enforcement later found the witness, she claimed sleeping pills again had caused her to be confused and ultimately stand in the bathtub.

A Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) patrol officer was also called to stand by the prosecution. The officer testified that she arrived at the scene following a 911 call and saw Bonaparte leaving the scene, not yet aware of the situation.

The officer authenticated her body-worn camera footage from the scene, which was shown to the jury. The video showed the officer approaching Bonaparte and Boyd’s romantic partner at the scene in addition to Boyd unconscious on the floor in a pool of blood.

In cross-examination, Gardner confirmed that the officer did not know what had transpired before she arrived at the scene.

Without the jury present, Judge Kravitz ruled to exclude other body-worn camera footage of Boyd’s romantic partner identifying Bonaparte as the suspect. Judge Kravitz emphasized that the prosecution previously entered pieces of evidence reportedly identifying Bonaparte as the suspect in court.

In response to his ruling, the prosecution used a different piece of case law to make a new argument. Judge Kravitz appeared frustrated with the prosecution, emphasizing, “repeating something does not make it more likely to be true.”

The prosecution then asked if the defense would stipulate to identify Bonaparte as the one who stabbed Boyd. The defense immediately responded “no,” and Judge Kravitz asked if the prosecution thought that was a reasonable request.

Judge Kravitz suggested the prosecution be better prepared in presenting their arguments and upheld his original ruling.

Parties are slated to reconvene on July 30.

Co-authored by: Ethan Palgon, Michelle Sapozhnikov, Austin Pierce, Benjamin Messinger, Cole Baker

Judge Denies Release for Homeless, Disabled Stabbing Defendant

DC Superior Court Judge Robert Hildum denied a stabbing defendant’s request for release at a hearing on July 27.

Michael Hudley, 57, is charged with assault with significant bodily injury and assault with a dangerous weapon for his alleged involvement in a stabbing on July 23 at the Eastern Market Metro Station on the 700 block of Pennsylvania Avenue, SE.

Parties noted in court that Hudley, who is homeless, is confined to a wheelchair and is missing his left leg.

According to court documents, Hudley reportedly accused a woman, who is also homeless, of stealing his money and phone. Then, he allegedly threatened to kill her and stabbed her in the left leg, left forearm, and chest with a knife.

Court documents report that Hudley allegedly told the victim, “You stole my money and my phone b*tch. I’m going to kill you,” before the stabbing.

In court, Hudley waived his right to a preliminary hearing that would have determined if probable cause existed for the charge against him.

Hudley’s attorney, Everald Thompson, asked for him to be released on home confinement and receive mental health assistance. Based on his disabilities, Thompson said the safety of the community would be ensured. Thompson acknowledged that Hudley had a previous criminal conviction in 2003 for carrying a pistol without a license.

Thompson said Hudley’s other convictions were misdemeanors, including a simple assault conviction in 2025. Both parties agreed that since the probation for his 2025 simple assault misdemeanor expired in March, he was not on probation or supervised release at the time of the stabbing.

The prosecution opposed the request for release, arguing that the charges carry a presumption of detention because they involve a violent offense. The prosecution additionally said that despite Hudley’s physical disabilities, he has prior convictions involving a knife, as well as previous drug and driving offenses. Therefore, they argued that no release conditions could adequately protect the community.

Judge Hildum concluded that the nature of the stabbing, the strength of the evidence, and Hudley’s criminal history outweighed the factors mentioned by the defense and were not enough to release him.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Sept. 9.

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