Defendant Pleads Guilty To Drug Deal Shooting

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A shooting defendant entered a plea of guilty in a hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park on Aug. 15.

Cordell Lesene, 38, is charged with aggravated assault knowingly while armed, three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, assault with a dangerous weapon, unlawful possession of a firearm because of a prior conviction, carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business, possession of an unregistered firearm, and unlawful possession of ammunition, for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting on the 100 block of 57th Place SE, on Feb. 6, 2022. One person was injured and sustained injuries from the shooting.

According to court documents, the dispute arose as a result of a drug deal.

The prosecution extended a plea agreement for assault with a dangerous weapon in exchange for 45 months incarceration, no further prosecution for greater charges, and gun offender registration.

During the hearing, Andrew Ain, Lesene’s defense attorney, informed the court that his client intends to waive his right to trial and DNA testing, opting instead to enter a plea of guilty.

Judge Park informed parties that he is vacating the trial date as well as the motions hearing scheduled for Aug. 20.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on Oct. 15 for sentencing.