‘I Recognize I Have a Problem’ Says Stabbing Defendant At Sentencing 

By Adriana Marroquin - October 11, 2024
Court | Daily Stories | stabbing | Suspects |

DC Superior Court Judge Marisa Demeo sentenced a stabbing defendant to 84 months of incarceration on Oct. 11. 

On May 21, Donnell Smith, 45, pleaded guilty to assault with intent to kill for his involvement in a stabbing that occurred on Sept. 29, 2023 on the 2200 block of Adams Place, NE. 

According to the prosecution, a woman sustained life threatening injuries during the incident, including a collapsed lung. 

During the hearing, the prosecution requested Smith be sentenced to 84 months of incarceration, citing that this is not his first time being convicted for assaults, and the “defendant repeatedly resorted to assaultive behaviors.” 

According to the prosecution, the victim was a mere bystander of an altercation between Smith and another individual, when Smith bumped into her and stabbed her multiple times. The prosecutor told Judge Demeo the victim sustained the collapsed lung, and had to get a chest tube in order to survive. 

Terrence Austin, Smith’s attorney, requested a bottom of the guideline sentencing of 72 months, stating that Smith has battled substance abuse all his life, and is “truly committed to maintain his sobriety,” this time. 

According to Austin, this is Smith’s most serious conviction, and “a life in a cage isn’t easy for anyone, especially someone [Smith’s] age.”

Austin told Judge Demeo Smith had an “atypical” childhood, stating his father passed away when he was young and his mother was “emotionally unavailable” for Smith. He added that Smith’s mom was not aware of the path he was taking at 15 when he began abusing drugs. 

“He recognizes he has to do differently,” Austin told Judge Demeo, adding that he is “extremely remorseful.” 

“I apologize to the young lady,” Smith told the Court, adding “I didn’t see me, I see a person that’s under the influence,” in a video of the incident that the prosecution provided. 

“I’m not perfect… I recognize I have a problem,” Smith said, stating “this is the time to address it.”

“[He] has a desire to [change], he just needs an opportunity,” Austin proclaimed. 

“Significant harm was done, a victim was stabbed,” Judge Demeo stated, adding that the harm the victim sustained is long lasting and isn’t over when the physical harm heals. 

“There are demonstrations that he has engaged in behaviors that are dangerous to the community,” said Judge Demeo, citing his convictions of assaultive conduct, threats, and drug and weapon possessions. 

Judge Demeo imposed the 84 month sentence, with three years of supervised release, stating that although it’s below the midpoint of the required 72-to-120 months range, she gives Smith credit for taking responsibility. 

She recommended he go through mental health and drug assessments and treatment, trauma and anger management counseling, and ordered he stay away from the victim and incident location. 

No further dates were set.