Judge Modifies Shooting Co-Defendants Confinement For Job Search

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DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz agreed to change home confinement orders that made it difficult for co-defendants to attend job interviews during a hearing on Feb. 28. 

Eric Latney, 28, and James Crossland, 28, are charged with conspiracy, assault with intent to kill while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon and two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, for their alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting. The incident took place on July 8, 2021, on the 200 block of 56th street NE.  

During the hearing, the prosecution mentioned a previous modification to confinement orders of defendants on Jan 24. 

The prosecution opposed the request of a 7 p. m. to 6 a. m. curfew that would allow Crossland to see and take care of his children, stating that the 24-hour home confinement already allowed Crossland to seek employment opportunities.

Latney’s defense attorney, Nikki Lotze, and Crossland’s defense attorney, Hannah Claudio, argued that both defendants are able to seek employment opportunities, but it is extremely difficult given the time restrictions of the confinement orders.

Since Latney has already been allowed to leave his residence for employment, the modifications will make attending confirmed job interviews convenient and work more hours. The judge ordered that Latney should run his job-seeking plans through a community officer before leaving home. 

Claudio argued that throughout Crossland’s current confinement order, he remained compliant for three years and five months, was not arrested on additional charges, held a temporary job, and tested negative for every drug test. Claudio also argued that with these changes, Crossland will be able to take care of his children more, upon his request.

The judge partially granted both attorneys’ requests, stating that defendants should only be leaving home “for confirmed and pre-approved job search activities.”

Parties are slated to reconvene on Oct. 10.