Judge Finds Probable Cause in Nonfatal Shooting of a Teen

By Payton Anderson , Rohan Naval - April 25, 2024
Daily Stories | Non-Fatal Shooting | Shooting | Suspects | Victims |

DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan found probable cause in a nonfatal shooting case involving a 14-year-old victim based on data from a tracking device and physical evidence.   

Anthony Goncalves, 51, is charged with assault with intent to kill while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in the non-fatal shooting of a juvenile on Nov. 29, 2023, on the 3900 block of Minnesota Avenue, NE. 

The prosecution stated that a plea offer previously extended to Gonclaves, expired. 

During the April 24 hearing, the prosecution called a homicide detective from the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) who presented a video from the crime scene.

The detective pointed out Goncalves was close to the area during the incident based on information from a GPS device Goncalves was wearing as a parole condition from an earlier crime.

In addition, the detective identified a “blood trail” from the victim as well as well as recovered bullet fragments.  

While searching the defendant’s residence, police allegedly collected a gun and ammunition that was a likely match for the bullets found at the crime scene. In addition, the detective stated that a pair of “distinctive” shoes was found like the one seen on surveillance footage.

However, defense attorney Christen Philips questioned the detective’s potential bias by describing several “racially insensitive memes” he had posted and reposted in 2018. While the detective claimed that the memes were not racist, he was suspended for the action.

“Some of the memes you posted used the ‘N-word’,” Philips countered. “Another meme included a picture of the KKK.” 

The detective said he wrote an extensive apology for his actions and explained how he would “work past this.” According to the detective, he has been suspended three times.

The defense also took issue with DNA testing of the gun thought to be the murder weapon.

“The DNA test came back and showed at least four people’s DNA were on that gun,” Philips said. 

The defense argued that no eyewitness identified Goncalves and the complaining witness was unable to remember any identifying features about the shooter.

In arguing against probable cause, the defense said the evidence against Goncalves had a high level of uncertainty.

However, based on the prosecution’s evidence, Judge Raffinan found probable cause and ruled to hold the defendant, despite receiving supporting letters from Goncalves mother and sister. 

Parties are slated to return on Sept. 6.