Judge Releases Defendant Despite Noncompliance with Probation

By D.C. Witness Staff - June 19, 2020
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Suspects |

DC Superior Court Judge Sean Staples released a defendant even though he did not report to pretrial services.

Defense attorney Ralph Robinson said Anton People’s noncompliance was due to fear and an unfamiliarity with the system.

Peoples, 22, has no criminal history. Robinson said his struggles with ADHD may have also informed his failure to appear.

Peoples’ family is prepared to assist with his compliance. He is required to receive an assessment for possible placement in mental health services, be tested for alcohol and refrain from carrying firearms. 

Peoples’ is charged with possession with intent to distribute marijuana, carrying a pistol without a license and possessing an unregistered firearm. 

On Sept. 28. 2019, officers from the Metropolitan Police Department observed Peoples with a gun. Officers say People’s allegedly placed the gun in a Mercedes Benz Sedan. 

An undercover agent also purchased marijuana from Peoples that morning. Police found $708 and 34.74 grams of marijuana on him. 

Peoples is currently awaiting a grand jury trial.