Judge Finds Probable Cause in 2023 Non-Fatal Shooting Case

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On July 5, DC Superior Court Judge Anthony Epstein found probable cause in a non-fatal shooting case that Kevon Robinson was the perpetrator.

Robinson, 23, is charged with assault with intent to kill for allegedly shooting and injuring a person on the 700 block of 20th Street, NE. The incident occurred on May 25.  

The prosecution called the lead detective from the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) to the witness stand who testified about how he identified Robinson as a suspect. 

Closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras allegedly showed the suspect fleeing the scene on a bicycle after firing shots at the victim.  When a, “Be on the lookout,” flier was issued for the suspect, multiple witnesses identified him as Robinson.

Robinson’s attorney, John Armstrong, questioned the detective about the events before the shooting; namely that Robinson and another person were seen ducking toward the ground suggesting they were afraid of getting shot. Robinson says the shooting was an act of self-defense.

Ultimately, Judge Epstein ruled that there was enough evidence to find probable cause that Robinson was the shooter, and that the shooting was not done in self-defense.

The parties then debated whether Robinson should be released awaiting trial. Prosecuting attorneys argued he could be a danger to the community.

Armstrong countered that Robinson’s youth and lack of criminal record mean he would be unlikely to harm anyone if kept on home confinement. Judge Epstein was also presented with letters of support from Robinson’s family members.

However, he ordered that Robinson be held until his trial.

Parties are expected to return on July 21.