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By
Rosie Rohrer [former]
- July 20, 2023
Court
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Daily Stories
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Non-Fatal Shooting
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Shooting
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Suspects
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Victims
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On July 20, DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt presided over a contentious mental observation hearing for non-fatal shooting defendant Joseph Evans.
Evans, 57, is charged with kidnapping while armed, first degree sexual abuse while armed and assault with a dangerous weapon for an offense allegedly committed on Sept. 24, 2012 on the unit block of K Street, NE. According to court documents, a gun was discharged during the incident.
Evans is being held at Saint Elizabeths Hospital, a facility to hold and treat defendants with mental health issues.
During the hearing, Evans repeatedly claimed he was being framed for the crime, even going as far as to accuse the prosecution of tampering with DNA testing in his case.
“I swear to God and my mother’s grave,” Evans said, avowing his innocence.
Evans also wants to observe the process of DNA testing in his case, even after Judge Brandt denied the request and Evans’ attorney agreed.
Defendants can’t be present during DNA testing.
Even though Evans was found mentally competent to stand trial in October, he indicated he will invoke a not guilty by reason of insanity defense. Meanwhile, the DC Department of Behavioral Health will be conducting a criminal responsibility examination of Evans in the coming weeks.
Parties are expected to return on Aug. 11.