DC Superior Court Judge Robert Salerno didn’t remove GPS monitoring for a stabbing defendant, despite his compliance with release conditions in a hearing on June 24.
Robert Richardson, 35, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for his alleged involvement in a domestic violence related stabbing that occurred on Nov. 17, 2025, at the 1200 block of 18th Place, NE. The victim sustained a wound to the right side of his back and a laceration to his right shoulder.
According to court documents, the victim and Richardson’s cousin were reportedly involved in a domestic dispute earlier the same day. Later, Richardson and one other suspect allegedly assaulted the victim in his apartment.
At the hearing, Richardson’s attorney, Edward Joseph requested his removal of his client’s GPS monitor . Richardson was released on May 18 with electronic monitoring and ordered to stay away from the victim.
Joseph cited Richardson’s compliance with court orders since his arrest on May 15, such as keeping the monitor on and regularly charging the device, as the basis for his request.
The defense also argued that GPS monitoring was not necessary, as the victim is currently incarcerated, reducing concerns about violations of the stay-away order.
The prosecution opposed the request, noting that, in addition to the victim, the cousin still remains a potential contact concern for Richardson.
Judge Salerno denied the request at the hearing, stating that despite Richardson’s compliance, there remained sufficient reason to continue GPS monitoring. However, Judge Salerno said he would revisit the issue before the next hearing.
Parties are slated to reconvene on Aug. 18.
