Assault Defendant Released

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On Aug 25, a DC Superior Courts judge released a defendant charged with assault. 

Gary Reed, 51, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction for allegedly threatening an off-duty taxi driver with a gun on Dec. 19, 2019, at 15th and U Street, NW.

Defense attorney Stephany Reaves requested her clients release, pointing out that Reed’s detention has been extended several times without any indication of when jury trials will resume. 

However, the prosecution said that the defendant should be held, citing the seriousness of the allegations and arguing that all standards in place have been constitutional.

Reaves acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations against Reed but argued that because of the pandemic, health concerns, and Reed’s “indefinite” detention that his release is needed. 

Judge Judith Smith decided to release Reed under the High Intensity Supervision Program (HISP.)