Judge Mandates Full Competency Evaluation in Carjacking Case 

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DC Superior Court Judge Heidi Pasichow granted a carjacking defendant’s request for a full mental competency evaluation on Sept. 11, following a recommendation from the Department of Behavioral Health (DBH).

Xavier Ellis, 32, is charged with carjacking and kidnapping for his alleged involvement in an incident that occurred on the unit block of New York Avenue, NE, on Oct. 26, 2023.

According to court documents, an individual, later identified as Ellis, stole a vehicle in DC while its owner slept in the passenger seat, before driving to Maryland. 

Ellis’ defense attorney, Susan Ellis, requested Judge Pasichow follow DBH’s recommendation for a full competency evaluation. The prosecution agreed, and Judge Pasichow issued an order.

The prosecution also informed Judge Pasichow that a global plea offer has been extended to the defense, but is currently on hold from the record due to concerns about Ellis’ ability to understand the proceedings. The details of the plea were not mentioned. 

The case is scheduled to return to court on Oct. 11.