A homicide defendant rejected a plea deal and requested he be transferred to a treatment center before DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt on May 1.
Richard Holmes, 36, is charged with first-degree murder while armed for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 31-year-old Franck Foute Mohdjiom at the 300 block of Anacostia Road, SE on Aug. 26, 2025.
Holmes’ attorney, Michael Bruckheim, alerted Judge Brandt of Holmes’ intent to reject a plea deal extended by prosecutors, which would require Holmes plead guilty to second-degree murder while armed. In exchange, the prosecution would agree to not seek additional charges, and parties would agree to an 18 years sentence.
Bruckheim also requested Judge Brandt make a recommendation to the Department of Corrections (DOC) that Holmes return to the Correctional Treatment Facility (CTF), as opposed to detention in the DC Jail. According to Bruckheim, they do not know why he was transferred, but Holmes would like to return to CTF in order to continue receiving mental health treatment and attending cosmetology classes.
Judge Brandt agreed but reminded Bruckheim DOC does not have to follow her recommendation.
Parties are slated to reconvene July 21.
