A defendant in an armed carjacking case waived his right to a preliminary hearing, and was denied release by DC Superior Court Judge Heidi Hermann on June 17, on the grounds that he was a danger to the community.
Dayshawn Lee, 18, is charged with armed carjacking, possession of a large capacity ammunition feeding device, and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in an offense that occurred on the 900 block of G Street, SE on June 13.
Defense attorney Manitta King alerted Judge Herrmann of Lee’s intent to waive his right to a preliminary hearing of the evidence against him, and asked for home confinement with a GPS monitor citing his limited criminal history of a single offense from more than a year ago.
Members of Lee’s family, including his sister and his girlfriend, were present at his hearing to offer support. King submitted letters by Lee’s sister and mother attesting to his character. King implored the judge to consider not only Lee’s importance to his family, but his crucial role as a caregiver for his sick aunt.
The prosecution argued that Lee allegedly committed a dangerous crime which put not only the victims, but the entire community at risk.
“This firearm is being brandished in a highly dense area,” the prosecution stated, citing the fact that the incident occurred on a Saturday morning. They also emphasized the severity of the crime by highlighting the discovery of 30 rounds of ammunition near the scene, as well as Lee’s alleged attempt to pistol whip the victim.
A witness to the crime stated that the individual recognized Lee as having robbed the person a few days prior. The prosecution argued that this indicated a pattern of premeditation. They described Lee’s actions as “brazen conduct” and asserted that he was still a present danger to the community.
Judge Hermann concluded that the combined escalation of the offense and Lee’s brandishing of the firearm in a public place satisfied the prosecution’s request that he continue to be held.
“The nature and seriousness of this offense poses a danger to the community,” she said.
Lee remains detained prior to a felony status conference on June 27.
