Judge Sentences Defendant to 18 Years

By D.C. Witness Staff - December 16, 2020
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Shooting | Victims |

A DC Superior Court judge sentenced a defendant, who a jury convicted last February, in connection with a shooting in Southeast, DC. 

“The only thing I want is justice, no matter what that looks like,” the victim said in an impact statement.

Gerald Ruffin, 40, was found guilty of assault with intent to kill while armed, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, unlawful possession of a firearm, obstructing justice and contempt. 

Judge Anita Josey-Herring sentenced him to a total of 18 years during the Dec. 16 hearing.

Ruffin has been held at DC Jail since November 2018. He will receive credit for time served. 

The defendant picked up the case after shooting a victim while he was in his car in Southeast, DC. According to court documents, the victim was driving with Ruffin’s former girlfriend when Ruffin began firing at their car. The victim sustained three non-fatal gunshot wounds to his legs, including one in his tibia.

After Ruffin was arrested, he was charged with 20 counts of contempt and five counts of obstructing justice for repeatedly violating stay away orders by calling the victim and pressuring witnesses to take the stand on his behalf. 

The victim of the shooting told the judge about his experience as a combat veteran and a bronze star recipient during the Iraq war, expressing his disbelief that he would be shot at home “over nothing.”

“I’ve been blown up, I’ve been shot at, and I’ve been in several wars, but I couldn’t imagine that I would have to take bullets in my leg in my own streets, and it’s pointless, it’s for no reason,” he said. “Even in the war, I have never seen that kind of anger.”

The other victim in the car also made a statement at Ruffin’s sentencing. “Whatever sentence is given to him, is deserved,” she said.

Defense attorney Dorsey Jones asked for leniency.

He said his client was raised in difficult circumstances and experienced trauma growing up. He also pointed out that Ruffin was gainfully employed before the offense, working as a welder. He said Ruffin was a steelworkers’ union member.

Before he was sentenced, Ruffin also asked for leniency so he could provide for his family. He apologized to his family and anyone else who was affected by his actions. 

“You were willing to seriously injure or almost kill someone because you were jealous that they were in a relationship with a former romantic partner of yours,”  Judge Josey-Herring said before passing the sentence. “I don’t think it’s fair to put the burden on other people to think about your children when you did not consider them when you engaged in this act.” 

Judge Josey-Herring also asked Ruffin to reflect on his actions and think about what he is capable of during his time of incarceration. 

John Sullivan wrote this article