DC Superior Court Judge Judith Pipe suspended imprisonment for a defendant who shot a dog, during a sentencing on Jan. 23.
On Oct. 3, 2025, Durojaiye Mawuli, 56, pleaded guilty to unlawful discharge of a firearm, possession of an unregistered firearm, carrying a pistol without a license outside of a home/business, and destruction of property less than $1000 for his involvement in a shooting on the 1500 block of 17th street, SE on Nov. 24, 2024.
According to court documents, the victim was walking his service dogs when a black dog began attacking his dogs without provocation. Mawuli, identified as the owner of the black dog, attempted to break up the dog fight, to no avail, before discharging a firearm at one of the victim’s dogs, killing it.
During the prosecution’s recommendation for sentencing, the prosecutor said Mawuli “created this situation and made it worse by having a gun he shouldn’t have.”
Mawuli’s defense attorney, Erica Arensman, remarked that this was an extremely sad situation. She reiterated from her sentencing proposal letter that Mawuli was terrified for his dog and made a choice he deeply regretted. He has since reflected deeply on the situation and accepted responsibility, according to Arensman.
“This one moment, this bad choice,” Arensman said, “is not a reflection of his actions going forward.” Additionally, “he is not a violent person. He is deeply regretful, and he is going to have to live with this for the rest of his life.”
Arensman also emphasized that Mawuli is a full-time caretaker for his partner and works full-time to provide for his family. Mawuli is already in touch with mental health services and will work to get better, Arensman claimed.
While sentencing Mawuli, Judge Pipe said, “This is an extremely tragic situation.” She sentenced him to 12 months for carrying a pistol without a license outside a home/business and unlawful discharge of a firearm, as well as 180 days for destruction of property under $1000 and possession of an unregistered firearm. The sentences will run concurrently, with all time suspended.
Mawuli must comply with drug testing and treatment as recommended by the Court Services & Offender Supervision Agency (CSOSA) and register as a gun offender.
No further court dates were set.
