Defendant Accepts Plea in Shooting, Strangulation

By Elizabeth Brady - September 25, 2024
Non-Fatal Shooting | Shooting | Suspects |

A shooting defendant accepted a plea deal reducing his charges during a status hearing, and DC Superior Court Judge Erik Christian accepted the agreement on Sept. 25. 

Mico Dutch, 25, was charged with assault with a dangerous weapon, possession of a firearm during crime of violence or dangerous offense, and strangulation. Dutch injured his mother at their home after an argument turned violent on July 16, 2024. A vehicle was damaged during the incident, and no injuries were reported. 

According to court documents, Dutch threatened to shoot his mother and then continued to assault and strangle her. The defendant shot multiple rounds into his mother’s vehicle, later fleeing and tossing the gun. 

During the hearing, defense attorney Santia McLaurin alerted Judge Christian that Dutch planned to accept an Alford plea, which means the defendant maintains their innocence yet the prosecution’s evidence against them would likely result in a guilty verdict being brought to a trial. 

Dutch pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon and strangulation, in exchange for a dismissal of the other charge. 

Under oath, Dutch explained he doesn’t remember portions of the incident as he has a history of blackouts and some attention deficit problems. 

The maximum sentencing detailed in the plea for assault with a dangerous weapon conviction is up to 10 years and/or a $25,000 fine, and for strangulation, it is up to 5 years and/or a $12,500 fine. 

The sentencing hearing is scheduled for Dec. 3.