Jail Time Suspended in Stabbing Plea Deal

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A stabbing defendant accepted a plea deal extended by prosecutors that downgraded his charges from felony to misdemeanor counts before DC Superior Court Judge Robert Salerno on Jan. 29. 

Sebastian Fonseca-Gomez, 26, was originally charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and unlawful possession of a dangerous weapon for his involvement in a stabbing on May 15, 2024. The incident occurred at the intersection of 7th and A Streets NE. 

At the hearing, Susan Ellis, Fonseca-Gomez’s attorney, alerted Judge Salerno of his intent to accept a plea deal for simple assault and attempt to possess a dangerous weapon. 

According to Ellis, the incident occurred after the victim allegedly told Fonseca-Gomez to “go back to where you came from,” which she claimed sparked their dispute. 

The prosecution told Judge Salerno the plea was filed as a misdemeanor due to Fonseca-Gomez’s “perfect compliance” in court and lack of a previous criminal record. 

Judge Salerno ruled that there was little likelihood of a recurrence and sentenced Fonseca-Gomez to 180 days of incarceration concurrently for each count, all suspended. 

Fonseca-Gomez will be on probation for one year, required to maintain employment, and obey a stay away order from the victim. 

No further proceedings are scheduled.