Judge Sentences Carjacker to Ten Years Under the Youth Rehabilitation Act

By Belinda Miguel , Hope Hamerslough - July 3, 2024
Carjacking | Daily Stories | Suspects | Victims |

A carjacking defendant was sentenced to ten years by DC Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur in a July 2 hearing. 

Gianni Saunders, 21, was convicted of armed carjacking, two counts of possession of a firearm during crime of violence, robbery while armed for his involvement in an armed carjacking that occurred on May 24, 2023 on the 2800 block of Denver Street, SE.

Saunders was acquitted of unlawful possession of ammunition. 

According to court documents, the victim had parked on the street and exited the vehicle when Saunders approached and pointed a gun in his direction. Saunders demanded the victim’s car key and he complied; then Saunders fled n the victim’s vehicle, and while attempting to outrun police crashed into two other vehicles. 

During the hearing, the prosecution argued Saunders should be sentenced to 20 years, stating that the victim is still affected by the incident, and community danger is evident. 

Saunders’ defense attorney, Antoini Jones, stated that the defendant has no prior convictions and his behavior in the DC jail has been exemplary. 

 “Charge the man, not the crime,” said defense attorney Jones.

 The defense argued for a Youth Rehabilitation Act (YRA) sentencing, which would seal the defendant’s conviction if he successfully completes all sentencing requirements, with recommended probation and services available to the defendant, alongside the conditions imposed by the prosecution. 

Judge Arthur said the defendant must face his consequences.

“It is time the rubber has to meet the road,” said Judge Arthur.  

Judge Arthur sentenced the defendant to ten years of incarceration, and five years of supervised release under the YRA. 

Saunders is also required to complete 90 hours of community service, register as a gun offender, and complete restitution payment. 

No further dates were set.