Judge Sentences Defendant in Homicide Case

By Dylan Berman [former] - July 27, 2022
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Shooting | Suspects | Victims |

DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz sentenced a defendant in connection to a 2020 homicide 

James Flemings is charged with second degree murder while armed in connection with the fatal shooting of 30-year-old Michael Bright on the 1100 block of 45th Street, NE on Oct. 6, 2020. Bright was found unconscious suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. The murder took place during an attempted robbery. Flemings, 25, pleaded guilty to the charge of second-degree murder on Wednesday as well.

“I am still hurting myself.” the mother of Bright said during a victim impact statement during the hearing on July 27.

The prosecution noted that the defendant had admitted his guilt early in the process while making their recommendations to Judge Kravitz. Ultimately, the prosecution recommended 6 years to 8 years in prison.

Defense attorney Billy Ponds recommended 6 years in prison.

Judge Kravitz recognized the circumstances of the case that led the parties to recommend lower than normal sentences given the crimes committed.

He sentenced the defendant to 8 years in prison, which will be followed by 5 years of supervised release. Flemings must also register as a gun offender after he is released from prison.