Judge Denies Stabbing Defendant’s Request For Release

By Hayden Clark [former] , Lily Engel [former] - June 21, 2024
Daily Stories | stabbing | Suspects | Victims |

DC Superior Court Judge Anthony Epstein denied a stabbing defendant’s request for release, after his re-arrest on a bench warrant due to his failure to appear, during a June 18 hearing.

Curtis Dupree, 35, is charged with assault with intent to kill while armed for his alleged involvement in a stabbing that occurred on Nov. 4, 2022 on the 3100 block of 16th Street, NW. 

According to court documents, the incident involved a dispute between an individual, identified as Dupree, and the victim that ended with the defendant’s allegedly stabbing the victim and then fleeing the scene. The two individuals involved were romantically involved and had known each other for approximately 18 months. The victim was able to recover after hospitalization.

On May 28, Dupree was picked up on a bench warrant that was issued for him when he missed a scheduled court date in October of 2023. 

During the hearing, Dupree’s defense attorney, Christen Romero, told the court that Dupree had been in the hospital and needed hand surgery, but was worried about losing his housing at the Christ House shelter, if he had to stay overnight at the hospital. 

Dupree admitted to being overwhelmed by the decision and said that is why he did not show up to court. 

Romero requested Dupree be released to live with his mother as he awaits trial, arguing that he has not committed crimes while released, and insisting he would comply with all conditions.

Additionally, Romero said the prosecution has not yet filed an indictment, despite being past the nine month deadline. She argued Dupree should be released until an indictment is filed.

The prosecution responded that since he was on a bench warrant, the nine month indictment clock stopped and they were no longer held to that commitment. 

Judge Epstein sided with the prosecution and denied Dupree’s request for release. 

Parties will reconvene July 12.