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By
Marissa Stambaugh [former]
- September 6, 2024
Daily Stories
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Homicides
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Shooting
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stabbing
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DC Superior Court Judge Robert Okun delayed a homicide defendant’s sentencing due to concerns about his mental competency on Sept. 6.
Raymond Avent, 24, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder while armed and carrying a pistol without a license for his involvement in the fatal shooting of 23-year-old Rafiq Hawkins. The incident occurred on March 23, 2019, on the 1200 block of Brentwood Road, NE.
On Aug. 29, Elizabeth Weller, Avent’s defense attorney, submitted a motion to withdraw his guilty plea. Judge Okun gave the prosecution additional time to respond in writing.
Through the deal, which was accepted on March 15, Avent’s non-fatal stabbing case would be dismissed. In that case, he faces charges of conspiracy, assault with intent to kill while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, and unlawful possession of contraband into a penal institution. The incident occurred on June 3, 2021 at the DC Jail on the 1900 block of D Street, SE.
Weller also requested a mental competency screening which was granted by Judge Okun. Avent’s sentencing was delayed as a result.
Parties will reconvene on Oct. 1.