Judge Sentences Domestic Violence Defendant to 8.5 Years for Assault and Robbery Charges

By D.C. Witness Staff - February 23, 2021
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Suspects | Victims |

A DC Superior Court judge sentenced a defendant to serve 8.5 years for two assaults and a robbery that left a lasting impact on his victims.

In the domestic violence case, Earl Moore pleaded guilty to assault with significant bodily injury for attacking his childhood friend. The victim had to go on a liquid food diet for months due to injuries to his jaw.

Judge Rainey Brandt sentenced Moore to two years in prison for this case.

Much of the Feb. 22 hearing focused on the defendant’s other felony case, in which he pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon and robbery for attacking a 77-year-old victim and stealing his car.

“My most vivid memory following the assault is waking up with my left cheek on the floor and seeing a large pool of blood,” the victim recalled.

The victim had recently retired when the offense took place. He said that he and his wife have had to deal with the financial toll of losing their car, which Moore totaled. 

He is also still recovering from the injuries he sustained. He deals with post-concussion chronic migraines, and has lost some of his independence.

“I hope you can live out the rest of your retirement without having to look over your shoulders,” Moore told them during the Feb. 22 hearing, apologizing for his crimes.

Judge Brandt sentenced Moore to 78 months each for the assault and robbery charges in his first case. The two sentences will run concurrently; however, they will run consecutive to the sentence imposed in the domestic violence case.

Two misdemeanor cases were dismissed as part of a plea deal with the prosecution.

Defense attorney Carrie Weletz said Moore’s life has been marked by lack and loss. The 40-year-old defendant went without sufficient necessities at times during his early years, and has lost several family members throughout his life. Weletz said her client needs to receive help for his mental health issues.

Moore said he hopes that when he gets out of prison, he can get a job and spend time with his family.

“We have worked very hard to contribute to society and make the best of our lives, and I hope to God that [the defendant] learns how to do that,” said the robbery victim’s wife.

Andrea Keckley wrote this article.