Defendant Found Mentally Competent to Stand Trial in Domestic Violence Case

By Nick Pallotto [former] - October 3, 2023
Court | Daily Stories | Domestic Violence | Non-Fatal Shooting | Shooting | Suspects | Victims |

At an Oct. 3 mental observation hearing, DC Superior Court Judge Lynn Leibovitz stated doctors found  a shooting defendant competent to stand trial.

Kevin Settles, 36, is charged with one count of armed carjacking, assault on a police officer while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, unlawful possession of ammunition, attempted unarmed carjacking, possession of an unregistered firearm, unlawful discharge of a firearm, carry pistol outside home or business, unlawful possession of a firearm, and four counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in a domestic violence shooting that occurred on the 100 block of Ridge Road, SE, on Feb. 23, 2021.

There were no injuries reported. 

According to Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) documents, the incident began as Settles and his significant other were driving down the 100 block of Ridge Road when he became agitated and pointed a handgun at her head. 

Settles allegedly ordered his girlfriend to get out of the car, which she did while removing the ignition key. Then she hid behind a parked car and Settles allegedly ran down the street shooting the gun multiple times in the air.  

Brian McDaniels, Settles’ defense attorney, argued he isn’t getting a proper mental evaluation at the DC jail, and requested that the court allow an independent competency exam. 

Judge Leibovitz said the defense needs to get their examination done within 30 days. 

Parties are expected back for a follow-up mental observation hearing on Nov. 7.