Defendant Receives Sentence for ‘Terrifying’ Non-Fatal Shooting

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On June 15, DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan sentenced James Young on one count of attempted robbery and one count of carrying a pistol without a license. 

Young, 54, was originally charged with one count of carrying a pistol outside a home or business, one count of robbery while armed, one count second-degree burglary while armed, one count of assault with a dangerous weapon and three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting that occurred on Aug. 30, 2022 on the 1200 block of Wisconsin Avenue, NW.

Despite defense attorney Joseph Fay’s efforts to focus on rehabilitation, Judge Ryan felt some punishment was necessary.

Prosecuting attorneys stressed the terror induced by the crime, and recommended a maximum sentence for both deterrence and punishment purposes.

As evidence prosecutors read a victim impact statement in which a witness from a nearby jewelry store described the incident as “terrifying” saying, “I hope this man receives just punishment and necessary mental care.”

Young was sentenced to 24 months confinement with 10 months suspended and time served credited. He will serve an additional four-and-half months in the DC Jail before returning home to Kentucky for probation and mental health treatments. 

Young will also be required to register as a gun offender. A stay away order for the 1200 block of Wisconsin Ave, NW will be implemented. 

After the sentencing, Judge Michael Ryan told Young, “You have a responsibility to stay mentally healthy.”