Judge Sentences Defendant Under Youth Act for Firearms Conviction

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On Sept. 9, a DC Superior Court judge sentenced a defendant to probation for a gun charge.

Davon Goldring, 25, pleaded guilty to carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business. As part of a plea deal with the prosecution, his other charges of possession of an unregistered firearm and unlawful possession of ammunition were dropped. 

“He knows right from wrong,” said defense attorney Lisbeth Sapirstein. “He recognizes that he wanted the gun for safety but knows it’s wrong.” 

Judge Michael Ryan sentenced Goldring to six months, all of which were suspended, plus nine months of probation.

The defendant, who was 24 at the time of the offense, was sentenced under the guidelines of the Youth Rehabilitation Act (YRA.) Because of this, his case will effectively be sealed after he completes his requirements.

The requirements of Goldring’s probation include participating in an employment assistance program, pursuing education and employment either full or part-time, taking an education assessment and receiving grief counseling. 

The prosecutor also requested some amount of community service.

Judge Ryan did order the defendant to complete 90 hours of community service, but, only if it is safe to do so, because to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Goldring must also pay $100 to the Crime Victims Compensation Progam.