Defendant Deemed Mentally Incompetent to Stand Trial

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DC Superior Court Judge Judith Pipe deemed a shooting defendant mentally incompetent to stand trial in a hearing on June 16..

Donnell Hannah, 26, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for his alleged involvement in an incident, allegedly sparked by an altercation with his partner and her ex-boyfriend, that took place on July 21, 2022 on the 800 block of Chesapeake Street, SE.

Upon review of a doctor’s report on Hannah’s mental competency to stand trial, Judge Pipe decided to continue his hearing for further mental observation as he was deemed mentally incompetent. In addition, she ordered Hannah to be placed in an outpatient competency restoration program, resume his classes, and continue to work with his doctors.

To stand trial a defendant must show that he is mentally competent enough to understand the charges against him and can assist with his own defense.

Parties are slated to reconvene on July 31.