Judge Sets Seven Year Sentence to Defendant Who Admitted His, ‘Foolish Mistake’ 

By Sofia Feigelson - July 1, 2024
Court | Daily Stories | Non-Fatal Shooting | Shooting | Suspects |

DC Superior Court Judge Robert Okun ordered a defendant, who admitted in court he made “a foolish mistake,” to serve a seven-year sentence in a June 28 hearing.

Ivan Dixon, 19, pleaded guilty to assault with intent to kill, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and carrying a pistol without a license on March 6.

He was originally charged with assault with intent to kill while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for assaulting a female victim while attempting to kill another individual near the 5300 block of East Capitol Street, SE on Sept. 22, 2023. Dixon was also charged with carrying a pistol without a license and possession of a large capacity ammunition feeding device for an offense on Oct. 2, 2023 near the 3000 block of Stanton Road, SE. 

“My life was almost taken from me,” stated the victim during her impact statement.

The victim said she has frequent breakdowns and is sensitive to loud noises. She also expressed her anxiety about the upcoming July 4 holiday, which used to be a time of celebration for her and her family enjoying the fireworks, but asserted “Now it is a tragedy for me. It brings back all the memories of getting shot.”

According to court documents, the defendant was riding in a white Ford Transit van with several other individuals. The van circled a supermarket two times before stopping in its parking lot.

As the victim was opening the door to the supermarket, the intended target of the shooting exited the supermarket. When that individual walked outside, the defendant left the van and opened fire from a .40-caliber pistol, discharging 16 rounds and striking the victim five times. The intended target was not hit.

“It’s senseless what our people are doing,” said the victim. She questioned the actions of the defendant and the other individuals present in the van, adding, “How much does it take?” in order to prevent Dixon, and other young men, from committing dangerous offenses. 

Following the victim’s statement, the prosecution restated the suffering that Dixon has caused the victim and requested Judge Okun detain him for the full sentence of seven years. 

The prosecution also voiced opposition to sentencing under the Youth Rehabilitation Act (YRA), which effectively seals a defendant’s conviction from public view upon successful completion of the imposed sentence.

Contrary to the prosecution’s stance, defense attorney Jonathan Lanyi, argued for his client to be sentenced under moderated law.

Lanyi first acknowledged Dixon’s difficult upbringing. He never had a father-figure in his life, his mother was frequently detained, and he, essentially, had to raise himself while many family members were incarcerated, including his brothers.

The defense attorney stated that Dixon has never been able to discuss his background, but explained how the DC Jail’s education programs with Georgetown and Howard Universities have encouraged and changed him in a positive way.

“I can’t speak of any other client who has taken advantage of programs,” asserted Lanyi, stating Dixon has been “very thankful” for the “healing” opportunity and receiving “at least some assistance.”

“He’s in search of a mentor. Somebody who can give him a hand,” said Lanyi.

Lanyi also stated that his client has reflected on his actions and has “been able to forgive himself.” 

After Lanyi spoke, Dixon expressed his remorse for the offense and addressed the pain he caused the victim.

Judge Okun expressed his sympathy to the victim in the courtroom before granting the defense’s request to sentence Dixon under the YRA.

Although Judge Okun acknowledged the seriousness of the crime, he stated that the other factors he must consider for a YRA sentencing outweighed the nature of the offense.

Judge Okun emphasized the deadly damage that Dixon nearly caused to the victim, stating both he and the victim were “lucky” in that regard.

“You’ve been given a relatively generous plea offer,” Judge Okun told the defendant.

Dixon must also serve five years of supervised release.

“For your sake and for the community’s sake, I wish you luck,” said Judge Okun to Dixon.