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By
Michelle Roldan
- March 4, 2025
Daily Stories
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Non-Fatal Shooting
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Suspects
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DC Superior Court Judge Marisa Demeo denied a young shooting defendant’s request to be sentenced under the Youth Rehabilitation Act (YRA) on Feb. 28. The law gives judges discretion to impose a sentence that seals a young offender’s record if the terms of the judgement are successfully completed.
On Dec. 2, 2024, Marcel Palmer, 17, pleaded guilty to assault with intent to kill for his involvement in a shooting on June 12, 2024 on the 2700 block of Sheridan Road, SE. An individual sustained life threatening injuries during the incident.
According to court documents, Palmer jumped out of a car and chased the victim down the block, eventually shooting him in the leg.
Palmer was charged as an adult under Title 16 given the serious nature of the charges.
During sentencing, the prosecution requested a sentence of 72 months and against Judge Demeo’s sentencing Palmer under the YRA, due to the defendant’s criminal history and the seriousness of the case. They explained that the YRA was a benefit that the defendant didn’t earn.
Wole Falodun, Palmer’s attorney, asked Judge Demeo to sentence him under the YRA, arguing that at the time of the crime the defendant was only 16 years old. He asked the prosecution to consider Palmer’s circumstances and the fact that he was taking responsibility for his actions.
The defense asked the court to sentence towards the lower end of the sentencing guidelines – which is 60 months, and with the YRA.
In a letter to the court, Palmer expressed remorse and that he had unfairly inflicted his own pain onto the victim and the victim’s family.
Palmer shared that he’s using religion to deal with his anger issues which led to this incident, and has asked God to forgive him. He wanted everyone to know who he was, what he had gone through, and what he is doing to better himself.
However, Judge Demeo made it clear that a lengthy period of incarceration is needed for adequate deterrence.
Judge Demeo cited several compliance issues the on the defendant’s part and the seriousness of the crime, contrasted with the sentiments expressed in his letter.
Judge Demeo imposed a term of 72 months in confinement followed by three years of supervised release, and $100 due to the Crime Victims Compensation Fund. He was not granted the YRA.
No further dates were set.