Judge Denies Motion to Release Shooting Defendant

By Rohan Naval , Carolyn Flammini - February 28, 2024
Daily Stories | Non-Fatal Shooting | Shooting | Suspects | Victims |

On Feb. 27, DC Superior Court Judge Jennifer Di Toro rejected a shooting defendant’s request for release. 

Donte Evans, 36, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting incident on April 23, 2023, on the 3500 block of Stanton Road, SE. 

According to court documents, Evans allegedly shot at a Lyft driver after he refused to stop at a gas station. The victim sustained a gunshot wound. 

During the hearing, Evans’ lawyer, Howard McEachern,  requested Evans be released. He cited concerns about Evans’ mental and emotional health and requested that he be released for “a short duration”. 

He stated that he could be released to home confinement, or restricted to a specific location.

The judge acknowledged the defendant had family-related issues and stated that she was “sorry for (his) loss” and that he was in a “tough situation”. 

However, Judge Di Toro rejected the defense’s motion for release, emphasizing that Evans has “detainers” in Maryland which prevent the DC Superior Court from releasing him.

The judge stated that “even if she were to grant permission for two hours”, referring to Evans attending a “function”, he would be extradited if released.

Parties are set to reconvene on March 6.