DC Superior Court Judge Carmen McLean resentenced a shooting defendant on June 23 based on his exceptional compliance with probation.
Joseph Robinson, 26, pleaded guilty on Dec. 14, 2021 to assault with a dangerous weapon and carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or place of business. The charges stem from his involvement in two incidents – an attempted armed robbery outside a gas station on May 8, 2021 on the 2900 block of Martin Luther King Jr. Ave SE, and a shooting in a hotel room which injured one victim on July 8, 2021 on the 1200 block of 13th Street, NW. The victim later died of gunshot wounds.
DC Superior Court Judge Michael O’Keefe sentenced Robinson on May 19, 2022 to 60 months for the assault with a dangerous weapon charge and 15 months for carrying a pistol without a license. Judge O’Keefe suspended all but 24 months of Robinson’s sentence.
During the probation show cause hearing, Robinson’s probation officer highlighted his engagement in community activity.
Prosecutors requested Robinson finish serving his sentences because he possessed a firearm in both incidents. They claimed that Robinson displayed no regard for public safety evidenced by his repeated firearms related incidents.
Robinson’s attorney, Steven Polin, highlighted Robinson’s exceptional compliance during his probation, and the steps he’s taken in his education. Polin asserted that Robinson is a perfect example of the reason the city council amended the Youth Rehabilitation Act, which allows for young defendants to have their conviction sealed upon successful rehabilitation.
He added that Robinson is fully aware that if he violates any conditions he will be sent to prison. Furthermore, he argued that Robinson has experienced PTSD treatment after losing his twin brother in a police shooting.
Polin requested a resentence and probation concurring with his current supervision.
Robinson expressed remorse for his actions, and told Judge McLean that he is not the same person he was when the crimes occurred.
Judge McLean said suspension was a second chance, and successive chances are not warranted. However, in this very narrow circumstance she granted Robinson a third chance. She added that any violation will bring the full jail time.
Judge McLean resentenced Robinson to 60 months suspended and three years of supervised release running concurrently for both matters.
“Mr. Robinson, keep up your efforts,” said Judge McLean.
No further dates were set.
