Judge Denies Motion to Release Shooting Defendant

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DC Superior Court Judge Erik Christian denied a motion to release a shooting defendant who is considering a plea deal during a June 5 hearing.

Kurtis Hubbard, 23, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon, robbery, and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in an attempted robbery on May 7 on the 3200 block of 20th Street, NE. 

According to court documents, Hubbard and his co-defendant, Brian Richards, allegedly attempted to rob the victim at gunpoint. A struggle ensued, and a firearm was discharged. The victim sustained injuries not related to the shooting, and the suspects fled the scene.  

At the hearing, the prosecution alerted Judge Christian they offered Hubbard a deal which would require him to plead guilty to robbery and unlawful possession of a firearm in exchange for a dismissal of all other charges. 

Hubbard’s attorney, Charles Haskell, told Judge Christian he needed additional time to discuss the plea deal with the defendant. 

Haskell also motioned Hubbard be released to 24 hour home confinement, stating, “No clear evidence exists showing what happened.” He further argued that there were witness inconsistencies, such as who had the firearm. 

The prosecution rebutted, stating there was “no change in circumstance” from when Hubbard was arrested.

Judge Christian denied Haskell’s motion for release. 

Parties are set to return on July 15.