DC Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur ordered a full competency evaluation by the Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) for a stabbing defendant on April 15.
Aaren Striplin, 44, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for his alleged involvement in a stabbing on the 900 block of G Street, NW on July 4, 2025. The victim sustained stab wounds to both legs.
Striplin’s defense attorney, Adgie O’Bryant, requested a preliminary competency screening on April 10. After the initial screening, DBH concluded that additional evaluation was needed.
To stand trial, Striplin must understand the charges against him and be able to assist his attorney in his defense.
During the hearing, Judge Arthur accepted the DBH request for further evaluation and ordered a full competency evaluation.
Striplin expressed his discontent with getting re-evaluated, stating he had already been deemed competent. Striplin addressed Judge Arthur and stated, “I want to say I’m not guilty in front of a jury.”
According to court records, Striplin was found incompetent to stand trial on July 17, 2025. After treatment at Saint Elizabeths Hospital, Striplin was deemed competent to stand trial on Dec. 11, 2025. He was then transferred to DC Jail.
Judge Arthur explained that he is not ordering Striplin to return to Saint Elizabeth’s Hospital at this time.
Striplin verbally requested a “speedy trial” from the court.
Parties are slated to reconvene on May 28.
