Judge Says He is Ready For Retrial in Nonfatal Shooting Case

By Alesar Harfoush [former] , Mariam Kamate [former] - March 27, 2023
Court | Daily Stories | Shooting | Suspects |

DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan said he is ready to go to retrial in a non-fatal shooting case after a failed attempt in 2019.

Victor Coley, 61 is charged with assault with the intent to kill while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, unlawful possession of a firearm or destructive device, and possession of ammunition regarding an incident that took place on the 300 block of 40th Street, NE. During the incident, two victims were shot, one victim was shot in the back and the other in the right leg. The incident took place on Nov. 6, 2013. Coley was found guilty on all charges on Feb. 24, 2015. 

However, after receiving a 40-year sentence, Coley filed a motion to reopen his case due to ineffective counsel. On Dec. 7, 2018.

Judge Ryan informed both parties that he is ready to go to trial on May 18 and that they should make sure that everything is ready with the little time they have left.

During a March 24 trial readiness hearing, defense attorneys Carrie Weletz and Jesse Winograd asked for additional time to decide on DNA testing due to additional information they received from the previous defense attorney.  

Weletz and Winograd said they plan on filling previous motions that were filed during 2019, which are for dismissal for tampering along with evidence violations and a motion to suppress witness identification due to a hearsay issue.   

The prosecution plans on calling 32 witnesses, including summarized testimonies from those who have passed away. 

Winograd stated that the defense plans on calling zero to six witnesses, however, Coley objected, arguing with counsel, asking her to call three additional experts. 

Coley asked the judge to address himself, but Judge Ryan refused to hear him and informed him to speak to his lawyers first. 

“I would like to object to your ruling, but I accept it,” Coley said as he left the courtroom.  

A status hearing is scheduled for March 31.