Judge Addresses Prelim Hearing Scheduling in Child Sex Abuse Case

By Beatriz Olivares [former] , Chloe Wayne [former] - July 15, 2022
Court | Daily Stories | Sex Abuse | Suspects |

During a July 14 hearing, DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt addressed scheduling issues regarding an upcoming preliminary hearing for a child sex abuse defendant. 

The 30-year-old defendant has been charged with first-degree child sex abuse. The charges stem from multiple incidents, occurring over a 2-year time period, in which the defendant allegedly forced an 8-year-old girl to engage in sexual acts. 

The defendant has been scheduled for a preliminary hearing since June 17. However, due to Judge Brandt’s heavy caseload, the hearing may have to be rescheduled. 

“Starting the 21st of July, I have prelims every single day,” Judge Brandt told the court. “At most, in total, they have 4 hours. They have to get it done.”

Defense attorney Jason Tulley requested to keep the original date – July 26 – in case Judge Brandt’s other hearings are dismissed or rescheduled. 

Prosecutors have also reached out to Tulley regarding a plea offer. Tulley requested that prosecutors disclose evidence materials and recordings of witnesses in order to properly evaluate the plea deal.  

Judge Brandt agreed to keep the July 26 hearing. As a backup, she will notify both parties whether another judge can pick up the case. 

“You’ll hear from us early next week,” Judge Brandt said.