A stabbing defendant asked for a new attorney due to an early conflict in a hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Heide Herrmann on July 7.
Thomas Slaughter, 68, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for his alleged involvement in a stabbing on the 4200 block of 4th Street, SE, on July 3. An individual sustained injuries to the chest.
Atiq Ahmed, Slaughter’s attorney, informed the court that when he tried to explain the prosecution’s plea offer to Slaughter, he asked for a new lawyer.
“He tryna get me to plead guilty,” said Slaughter in defense. Judge Herrmann assured Slaughter that Ahmed was only doing his job by explaining all plea offers to Slaughter, and that Slaughter had the choice of whether or not to take it.
“Him calling me stupid was doing his job then,” Slaughter stated.
When questioned about the interaction by Judge Herrmann, Ahmed admitted there was some “name-calling” and that Slaughter “was being very aggressive with [him].”
Slaughter confirmed to Judge Herrmann that he wants a new lawyer, but he pushed back when Judge Herrmann explained that the case would be inevitably postponed if he got a new lawyer, since no one would be prepared that same day. When Slaughter continued to insist, Judge Herrmann stated, “we’re not doing this.” Slaughter reaffirmed that he does want a new attorney.
Ahmed tried to inform Judge Herrmann that he explained everything to Slaughter and met with him as soon as he could.
“It sounded like you did all the things you are required to do,” Judge Herrmann flatly stated.
Still, Judge Herrmann appointed Tammy Thom, who was present in the courtroom, as Slaughter’s new attorney.
Parties are slated to reconvene on July 16.
