Judge Denies Carjacking Defendant’s Release Request

By Cathy Ochoa - October 31, 2024
Carjacking | Daily Stories | Suspects |

A carjacking defendant was denied release during a preliminary hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Heide Herrmann on Oct 30. 

Eric Woods, 17, is charged with three counts of armed carjacking, three counts of robbery while armed, and three counts of possession of a firearm during crime of violence, for his alleged involvement in multiple carjackings. 

Woods was allegedly involved in a carjacking on May 8 at the intersection of 7th and A Streets, SE. According to court documents, the three victims were delivering newspapers when one stepped out of a vehicle and was approached by a suspect from behind with a black rifle. The suspect demanded the other two exit the vehicle and proceeded to drive away.

Woods was also allegedly involved in a carjacking on May 13 on the 2100 block of Suitland Terrace, SE. According to court documents, the victim reported that he was carjacked at gunpoint by two suspects. He had just exited his parked car when one of the suspects, armed with a gun, approached him and demanded his keys, phone, and other belongings. 

Woods is also charged in connection to an Oct. 11 carjacking incident that  occurred at North Capitol and O Streets, NW. 

During the preliminary hearing, Seth Schrager, Woods’ attorney, asked for a continuance as he has not had enough time to talk with Woods prior to the hearing. Judge Herrmann granted the motion.

Schrager also asked for Woods’ release which was opposed by the prosecution. Ultimately the request was denied by Judge Herrmann, who stated Woods cannot be released until a preliminary hearing is held or a waiver for the hearing is filed. 

The parties will reconvene on Nov 14.