Judge Sentences Defendant to Six Months of Probation

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A DC Superior Court judge sentenced a defendant to six months of probation for a drug charge.

William Washington was originally charged with unlawful possession of liquid PCP, and later, possession of drug paraphernalia. As part of a plea deal with the prosecution, the 39 year-old defendant pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of possession with a controlled substance on March 10.

Judge Rainey Brandt sentenced Washington to two months, all of which were suspended, plus six months of probation. The only condition of his probation is to continue treatment for drug abuse. 

On Sept. 14, Washington’s defense council, Frederick Iverson, said the defendant should be sentenced to 30 days time suspended and six months on probation because the defendant had no intent to distribute and is now seeking help for drug abuse.

The prosecution said the defendant should be sentenced to 90 days plus six months of probation due to his previous drug-related offenses.  

On Dec. 2, William Washington was arrested after acting unruly and appearing under the influence on the 99th block of M Street, SE. Washington was transferred to the Howard University Hospital and subsequently identified.

He must also pay $50 to the Crime Victims Compensation fund.