An octogenarian stabbing defendant was released to GPS monitoring with a stay-away order after he waived his right to a preliminary hearing on Feb. 10 before DC Superior Court Judge Renee Raymond.
James Johnson, 83, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal stabbing on the 1600 block of Bladensburg Road, NE on Feb. 6. The surviving victim sustained three stab wounds.
Johnson’s defense attorney, Matthew Rist, alerted the court of Johnson’s intent to waive his right to a preliminary hearing which was accepted by Judge Raymond. Rist also requested that Johnson be released with a stay-away order from the victim.
The prosecutor requested Johnson remain detained because he posed a threat to the community, citing his firearm and drug convictions in the 1990s.
Rist assured Judge Raymond that Johnson had no contact with the criminal justice system since then, and added that due to Johnson’s age, it was “extremely difficult” for him at the DC Jail.
According to Rist, Johnson had spinal surgery scheduled on Feb. 18 and is currently unable to walk, emphasizing that it would be far easier on Johnson’s health if he was released.
Rist added that Johnson would follow any terms of release imposed by the court and had a network of support in the community.
Judge Raymond granted Johnson’s release with GPS monitoring and a stay-away order from the victim, stating that she wanted to give him a chance because she “wasn’t sure how he would fare” in the DC Jail due to his advanced age. Judge Raymond also ordered Johnson to call the Pretrial Services Agency (PSA) once a week to check in.
The parties are slated to reconvene on March 24.
