Defendant Released With Mental Health Services

By D.C. Witness Staff - July 1, 2020
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Suspects |

A DC Superior Court judge released a defendant on the condition that he connect with mental health services and report to Pretrial Services Agency as directed.

Edward Cowser appeared before the court virtually July 1 to address four cases during a bond review hearing. The 43-year-old is charged with second-degree theft and shoplifting for allegedly attempting to steal five boxes of pain medication from a CVS on the 800 block of Maine Avenue, SW. 

On April 20, he was also charged with simple assault after he allegedly refused to leave when discharged from a hospital on the 1300 block of Southern Avenue, SE. As Security Police Officers escorted him out, Cowser spat and yelled “f*** you.”

On April 23, he was charged with possession of a prohibited weapon and simple assault for allegedly attempting to steal two Ultimate Margaritas from Good Hope Deli and Market on the 1700 block of Good Hope Rd, SE. He brandished a knife and said “move” when someone tried to stop him.

On April 27, Cowser was charged with attempted threats to do bodily harm, second-degree theft, attempted possession of a prohibited weapon (knife), and simple assault. He allegedly tried to steal a Natty Daddy from Greenway Liquors on the 3700 block of Minnesota Avenue, NE. After a witness said he did not pay for the item, Cowser took out a knife, pointed it at the witness and said, “I will kill you.”

Defense attorney Jamison Koehler said the defendant struggles with mental health, which led to the actions.

Cowser said he was unable to receive medication and therapy for his depression, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

The defense also said he has a heightened susceptibility to the physical dangers presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. He has epilepsy, glaucoma, high blood pressure and a bullet lodged in his head. He has also had multiple seizures while incarcerated. 

The Department of Behavioral Health scheduled a telehealth call for Cowser on July 2. He will work with Community Wellness Ventures, a human services agency that provides mental health and wellness services to DC residents, to connect with mental health, disability and housing programs. The agency will also assist him with receiving food, clothing vouchers and an initial supply of medication.

Judge Michael Ryan warned Cowser that if he does not comply with the conditions of release, he will be immediately incarcerated. 

“I’m ready for a change in my life,” Cowser said. “I want to be able to eat when I want to eat. I just want to show everybody that I’m trying to do right.”

Cowser’s next hearing is scheduled for Aug. 5.