DC Superior Court Judge Robert Salerno released an armed carjacking defendant during a trial readiness hearing on June 26.
Eduardo Cordova, 27, is charged with armed carjacking and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in a carjacking on March 23, 2024, at the 3300 block of 7th Street, SE.
At the hearing, the prosecutor requested that the court extend the indictment deadline. Judge Salerno granted this request, although expressed skepticism that the prosecution would be able to meet the new August deadline after the prosecutor explained the need for the extension under seal. The prosecution said they remained confident that they would be ready by then.
As a result, Cordova’s trial, which was scheduled to start July 8, was delayed.
Additionally, Salerno informed the prosecutor that when an indictment is extended to the nine month deadline the court can only hold the defendant if they will be indicted within 45 days. The prosecutor explained to the court that the extension would be 46 days from the present day and hoped he might be permitted to still argue for a hold.
Judge Salerno disagreed and ruled for Cordova’s release with GPS monitoring. Cordova was ordered to stay away from the area of the incident and from the victims during release.
During the hearing, Cordova’s attorney Antontio Camacho also made a motion, arguing orally for the case to be dismissed entirely. However, Judge Salerno denied the request.
Parties are slated to reconvene on Aug. 13.
