DC Superior Court Judge Robert Salerno heard from the victim of a stabbing incident before sentencing the defendant to all but time served suspended on Oct. 22.
On Aug. 15, Tywanna Johnson, 33, pleaded guilty to attempted assault with a dangerous weapon for her alleged involvement in a stabbing that occurred aboard a WMATA bus on the 400 block of 15th Street, NE on Jan. 23. The victim suffered an abdominal injury.
Before hearing arguments, the victim shared an impact statement describing the physical, psychological and social consequences of this incident, expressing he “does not enjoy things anymore.”
According to the victim, he did not agree with the terms of the plea deal, sharing he “[did] not feel safe” with Johnson being released to the community.
Prosecutors requested 15 months of incarceration, three years of supervised release, restitution of $4,500 for medical expenses, and stay-away orders, noting the defendant needs help as this was a “stranger-on-stranger” crime.
Defense counsel, Derrick Page, emphasized Johnson’s traumatic history with unaddressed psychiatric conditions, substance abuse, and housing instability. Page shared “none of that is to take away from the pain [the victim] feels” and that Johnson is “greatly remorseful and apologetic.” Johnson briefly apologized to the victim in court.
A representative from the Pretrial Services Agency (PSA) shared that though Johnson had “rough start” since her release in July with a few positive drug tests, she has been largely compliant. He cited a string of negative drug screenings and connecting with outpatient support.
Judge Salerno expressed concern about the combination of mental illness and illicit drug use, calling it a “deadly mix,” and found that probation alone would not guarantee Johnson’s stability and health.
He ultimately sentenced Johnson to 24 months suspended, except time already served and days it takes until Johnson can be placed into a residential dual-diagnosis program. She is also required to serve three years of supervised release, suspended, and two years of probation.
Judge Salerno ordered Johnson to comply with drug testing and treatment recommendations upon her discharge from the residential program, and imposed stay-away orders for areas the victim regularly frequents in DC.
Judge Salerno also directed the prosecution to share any medical receipts related to the case with Page so that arguments could be heard later in November before making a final decision on ordering restitution.
Parties are slated to reconvene on Nov. 7.
