Judge Sentences Domestic Violence Defendant to 20.5 Years in Homicide Case

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On Sept. 7, DC Superior Court Judge Robert Okun sentenced a homicide defendant to 20.5 years in prison for second-degree murder and for carrying a dangerous weapon outside of a home or business.

Gregory Johnson, 31, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder on June 29 in connection to the shooting of 32-year-old Passion Pleasant on the side of Southbound 295 near East Capitol Street on Feb. 5. Metropolitan Police Department officers found the victim on the side of the road suffering from apparent gunshot wounds, according to a press release. Pleasant and Johnson were in a romantic relationship.

Along with the second-degree murder charge was an assault against the mother of his child, and a misdemeanor for possession of a pistol without a permit.

“Gregory, you took my youngest and I want to hate you, but I know there’s good in you,” Pleasant’s mother said.

The impact statement given by Pleasant’s son reflected on past abuse his mother endured from Johnson.

“Greg, do you remember the one promise you made to me? You promised you would never put your hands on my mom again,” the victim’s son said.

When Johnson’s family was called to give their statements, members of both families hugged.

Johnson apologized directly to Pleasant’s family and to the mother of his child.

Along with the 20.5-year prison sentence, Johnson will also serve five years on supervised release.

When released, Johnson must register as a gun offender, receive mental health and anger management treatment, and obey a stay away order from the mother of his child. Johnson is also required to attend a domestic violence intervention program.

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