Domestic Violence Defendant Sentenced to 2.5 Years

By Tory Lysik [former] - October 12, 2021
Court | Daily Stories | Domestic Violence | Suspects | Victims |

A DC Superior Court judge sentenced a domestic violence defendant to serve two-and-a-half years for attempted assault with a dangerous weapon.

According to the prosecution, in November 2019, Joshua Austin threw a glass ashtray at his aunt after they began to have an argument. The ashtray shattered, lodging glass in her leg and face. From there, he attacked her as she ran into her bedroom. His aunt attempted to barricade her door as he proceeded to attack her. She escaped through her window and hid on the roof of her home until police arrived.

Austin’s mother barricaded herself in a closet and called the police during the assault, the prosecution said. When Austin was arrested some time later, officers found a switchblade and machete in his backpack.

“She no longer considers him family,” the prosecution said.

During the Oct. 8 hearing, Judge Rainey Brandt sentenced Austin to 30 months of incarceration followed by three years of supervised release.

The prosecution said Austin has a lengthy criminal record, which includes assault and robbery.

Defense attorney Wole Falodun said that, from the time he has spent with Austin, he truly believes his client is sorry for his actions. He also said his client has a family history of mental health issues.

Falodun also said Austin is showing an acceptance of responsibility for his actions by taking a guilty plea and not going to trial, preventing his aunt and mother from the potential pain of testifying in front of a jury.

“I just want another chance to show my family that I can be a productive citizen,” Austin said. “I just want to show people what I can be.”

He could be seen choking up during his statement.

Judge Brandt said Austin’s godfather described him as, “very intelligent and manipulative.” She also said he has appeared emotional in front of other judges when his case does not go the way he wishes.

“I think Mr. Austin wants to be a better person but that is in conflict with something else,” she said.

Austin is also scheduled to appear in court on Dec. 8 for a jury trial for an alleged robbery on Oct. 30, 2019.