drugs and alcohol could cost Carjacking Defendant his probation

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DC Superior Court Judge Carmen McLean expressed concern for the defendants continued lack of compliance regarding substance abuse treatment during a hearing on June 23.

Damian Lea, 24, pleaded guilty on Jan. 18, 2022 to robbery and assault with a dangerous weapon for his involvement in an armed carjacking on July 28, 2020 on the 100 block of Piece Street, NW.

According to court documents, Lea sold someone a car then immediately drove off with the car and the money used to purchase the vehicle.

During the hearing, Lea’s probation officer notified the court that he violated conditions of his probation because he tested positive for fentanyl on May 5 and June 10, tested positive for alcohol, and failed to appear for multiple drug tests. Lea’s probation officer also noted Lea attempted to cheat on drug tests and demonstrated avoidance and dishonesty.

Lea’s probation officer switched him from out-patient treatment to in-patient treatment in response to his lack of compliance but he still failed to appear for treatment. The probation officer added that Lea’s mother has also been trying to encourage him towards substance abuse treatment.

The prosecution requested the revocation of Lea’s probation agreement, which would mean he would have to serve his 42 month suspended sentence.

Lea’s attorney, Howard McEachern, countered that Lea showed up to in-patient treatment on Friday, claimed that he is not avoiding treatment, and noted a transportation issue for one of Lea’s absences. McEarchern argued that Lea was attempting to handle treatment on his own and is now ready to address the problem. He asked for Lea to be given substance abuse treatment and said he would comply with drug testing.

Judge McLean questioned why McEachern did not ask for substance abuse treatment before the hearing. She stated that Lea was previously given the benefit of the doubt in an attempt to sort out issues with his substance abuse treatment.

“This is not sorted out, this is concerning,” said Judge McLean. She scheduled a probation revocation hearing on July 30.