Judge Sets New Trial Date in Assault Case

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DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park set a new trial date for an assault case.

Cordell Lesene, 36, is charged with aggravated assault knowingly while armed, three counts of possession of firearm during a crime of violence, assault with a dangerous weapon, unlawful possession of a firearm because of a prior conviction, carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business, possession of unregistered firearm, and unlawful possession of ammunition for allegedly shooting an individual on Feb. 6, 2022, on the 100 block of 57th Place, SE.

According to court documents, the victim and defendant were shouting at one another, when the defendant shot the victim as he was running away.

During the March 6 hearing, the parties addressed defense attorney Andrew Ain’s motion to continue the trial. The prosecutor opposed the motion because of concerns with witness availability.

Judge Park agreed and set a new trial date for May 16, although this date may be changed depending on the parties’ schedules.

The prosecutor continued by addressing a concern regarding the defendant’s wheelchair.

The prosecutor requested that the defendant not sit in a wheelchair, or have one visible during trial. In one of the video clips the prosecutor will show the suspect walking, and he is worried it could influence the jurors seeing Lesene in a wheelchair.

Judge Park did not rule on this but said that it could further be addressed at the next hearing.

The parties are scheduled to return April 21 for a trial readiness hearing.