Aged Shooting Defendant Detained Despite Decades of Good Behavior 

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DC Superior Court Judge Renee Raymond, said she, “Cannot ignore the facts of his criminal history no matter how old”, when deciding the release of the defendant on Sept. 12–that after he waived his right to a preliminary hearing. 

Derrick Gladden, 53, is charged with aggravated assault while armed and possession of a firearm during crime of violence or dangerous offense for his alleged involvement in a shooting that injured one individual on April 15 on the 2300 block of Marion Barry Avenue, SE. 

Gladden’s defense attorney, Shawn Sukumar, informed the court that the defendant planned to waive his right to a preliminary hearing. 

Sukumar argued his criminal history is over 30 years old and has not faced new charges since. Therefore, Sukumar insisted, he could safely be released.

The prosecution stated the weight of the evidence rules in favor of the defendant’s being held despite his decades of clean conduct.

Judge Raymond denied Gladden’s request for release based on previous infractions. 

According to Sukumar, parties are currently in plea negotiations.  

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on Sept. 27.