Judge Holds Shooting Defendant Accused of ‘Extremely Violent Conduct’

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Appearing In an arraignment before DC Superior Court Judge Marisa Demeo on Jan. 5, Andrew Parsons, 28, pleaded not guilty to a non-fatal shooting.

In a five-count indictment read aloud in court, Parson was charged with assault with intent to kill, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence and carrying a dangerous weapon in connection to an incident that occurred on Aug. 9 on the 800 block of Southern Avenue, SE.

According to court documents, Parsons was involved in an argument with a person he knew and shot him several times in the legs. The injuries required surgery.

During an Oct. 4 mental observation hearing, DC Superior Court Judge Heidi Pasichow described Parsons as “a danger” to society in denying his release request.

Parsons’ attorney, Darryl Daniels II argued for his client’s release saying he had arranged for stable housing.

However, the prosecutor said that Parson exhibited “extremely violent conduct” in that he allegedly got a gun and fired ten times, putting people in the surrounding area at risk.

Daniels countered that Parsons had a positive release experience after an earlier incident.

Judge Demeo was skeptical, noting Parsons’ prior offenses, in particular outstanding warrants in Pennsylvania and Maryland. Further, she was concerned about the use of a firearm in a public setting and that Parsons could be a flight risk. Therefore, she ordered Parsons held pending trial.

Judge Demeo also advised Parsons that he might want to add an experienced litigator to his defense team given the serious nature of the accusations.

The next hearing in the case is set for March 8.

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