Judge Transfers Defendant to St. Elizabeth’s to Receive Mental Health Screening

By D.C. Witness Staff - July 23, 2020
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Suspects | Victims |

On July 22, DC Superior Court Judge Dayna Dayson transferred a defendant to St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, DC’s psychiatric institution, to receive a mental health screening.

The defendant was brought before the court regarding three cases, in which he is charged with destruction of property less than $1,000, fleeing leaving after colliding property damage/injury to an animal and assault with a dangerous weapon.

He was released on his promise to return to court on June 8. However, he is currently being held in DC Jail because he picked up a domestic violence case after being arrested on July 18 for simple assault, resisting arrest, assault on a police officer and threats to do bodily harm.

Defense attorney Stephen Brennwald was not able to get in contact with his client, but got to speak with his mother. The mother said she was concerned about her son’s mental health and wanted him to get a psychological screening. 

Prior to June 6, the defendant did not have a criminal history. 

The defendant allegedly attempted to gain entry into a bakery on the 500 block of 14th Street, NW on June 6. He attempted to strike the window with objects to destroy the glass pane.

The next day, the defendant allegedly strangled a cellmate with a shoelace and yelled, “Rape, rape, I’m going to rape you!” He was subsequently charged with assault with intent to commit first-degree sexual abuse and assault with a dangerous weapon.

He was arrested again on June 26 for colliding into the rear bumper of a Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) vehicle and attempting to flee on the 5900 block of Georgia Avenue, NW. 

The defendant’s next hearing is scheduled for July 30.