Fatal Stabbing Defendant Waives Preliminary Hearing

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A homicide defendant waived his right to a preliminary hearing in front of DC Superior Court Judge Michael O’Keefe on Nov. 19. 

Robert Stringer, 56, is charged with first degree murder while armed for his alleged involvement in the murder of Alfred Fields that occurred on July 1 at the 3100 block of Buena Vista Terrace, SE. 

According to court documents, police responded to a report of a stabbing where they found Fields with six stab wounds. Attempts to help him on the scene were unsuccessful. 

Defense attorney Jason Tulley represented Stringer, stating that Stringer wants to waive his right to a preliminary hearing, which would require the prosecution provide evidence of probable cause of guilt. Even so, he could be indicted later.

The prosecution also put a plea agreement on the record; in exchange for pleading to one count of second degree murder while armed, the sentencing range for Stringer will be limited to 15-to-20 years under a plea agreement stipulated with the judge. The deal will stay open until January.

The next status hearing is scheduled for Jan. 31.