Defendant in Armed Rape Case Pleads Guilty in Exchange for 18-Year Sentence

By Jeff Levine - March 20, 2023
Court | Daily Stories | Sex Abuse | Sexual Assault | Suspects |

DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan accepted a guilty plea in a rape case dating back to March of 2018.  In return for the agreement 22-year old Troy Ashley will serve 18 years in prison and be subject to lifetime supervision. 

Ashley was accused of first-degree sexual abuse, kidnapping while armed and assault with intent to kill while armed.  The maximum penalty for those crimes is life in prison without release, according to the judge.

The prosecution said Ashley forced his way into the victim’s car with a gun initially threatening to rob her on the 3200 block of Buena Vista Terrace, SE.  When she told him she had no money or credit cards, Ashley forced the woman to perform oral sex, then raped her. Finally, at gunpoint Ashley told her to jump into freezing water naked or he would kill her.

Judge Raffinan asked Ashley if he “knowingly and voluntarily” accepted the plea meaning that he would waive his right to trial or appeal of his sentence.

With defense attorney Andrew Ain at his side, Ashley replied, yes.  He did not offer an apology to the victim in open court. 

Since Ashley has already served four years in jail, he would be eligible for release when he’s 36 years old.  

 “He’ll be out and will do it again,” a detective told D.C. Witness after the proceeding.  The officer also said the victim was still traumatized and in need of emotional support.  

Judge Raffinan scheduled May 26 for a sentencing hearing.