Defendant’s Mental Issues Cause Major Delay in Fatal Stabbing Case

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On Feb. 16, parties agreed to a 90 day delay in a homicide defendant’s case before DC Superior Court Judge Marisa Demeo, due to his health issues.

Steven Schwartz, 85, is charged with second-degree murder while armed for his alleged involvement in the fatal stabbing of his 81-year-old wife, Sharron Hilda Schwartz. The incident occurred in their residence on Dec. 10, 2023, on the 1300 block of Corcoran Street, NW.

Schwartz’s defense attorneys, Kobie Flowers and Jacqueline Cadman, informed the court that Schwartz remains unable to speak coherently, emphasizing that no mental health evaluation has been completed.

Judge Demeo found no substantial progress in Schwartzs’ condition and suggested a 90 day delay. However, she noted that if there was an improvement in Schwartzs’ condition then a hearing could be scheduled earlier.

Both parties were unopposed to the suggestion.

Parties are slated to return May 24.

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