Carjacking Defendant Stays at DC Jail Due to Doctor’s Inability to Diagnose Competency

By Vivien Williams [former] - July 15, 2024
Carjacking | Court | Daily Stories | Suspects |

A doctor’s inability to form an opinion on a carjacking defendant’s competency affected his ability to reside at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, according to DC Superior Court Judge Andrea Hertzfeld on July 11.

Ramone Brown, 34, is charged with unarmed carjacking for his alleged involvement in an incident on Feb. 20 on the 1700 block of New York Avenue, NE. 

According to court documents, Brown allegedly tried to steal a car from a victim at a gas station. A bystander saw what was happening and forcefully removed Brown from the car. 

Judge Hertzfeld said a doctor was “unable to form an opinion” on Brown’s competency and that the doctor recommended a full competency evaluation be conducted. 

The defendant was found to be “incompetent to proceed with his case,” according to court documents. The case has been continued for further mental observation hearing.

Brown’s attorney John Machado, asked for Brown to be placed at St.Elizabeth’s instead of the DC Jail. 

However, Judge Hertzfeld denied this request arguing that the doctor would have recommended this if it was necessary. 

She ordered a full competency evaluation. 

Parties are slated to reconvene Aug. 13.