DC Superior Court Judge Robert Salerno deferred a guilty plea in a stabbing case after the defendant appeared confused about the consequences thr deal could have on his immigration consequences on Feb. 2.
Muhammad Abubakor, 25, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for his alleged involvement in a stabbing that injured one individual on Oct. 30, 2025, near the 3400 block of 14th Street, NW.
Before addressing the plea, defense counsel John Sample asked for the defendant’s release, arguing that Abubakor needed to care for a relative undergoing treatment for prostate cancer. Judge Salerno denied the request, citing a prior failure to appear in Maryland.
Sample also alerted Judge Salerno of Abubakor’s intent to accept a plea to attempted assault with a dangerous weapon. Under the agreement, the prosecution would waive further indictment without recommending harsher penalties, with no sentencing cap. The charge carries a maximum penalty of five years of incarceration and/or a $12,500 fine.
Judge Salerno questioned Abubakor to ensure he understood the rights he would give up by pleading guilty, including a jury trial. The prosecution then stated it would have proven at trial that Abubakor stabbed the victim in the back, relying on video footage and testimony. Abubakor agreed to waive these rights.
The judge halted the plea process when he advised Abubakor that a guilty plea could carry immigration consequences, including potential deportation. After conferring with Sample, Abubakor appeared uncertain about the agreement, suggesting he wanted to return to Nigeria.
Judge Salerno directed the defendant and counsel to discuss the issue privately. Defense counsel agreed to extend the mandatory deadline for the proceeding, and the prosecution agreed to keep the plea offer open.
The parties are slated to reconvene on March 6.
