Judge Vacates Trial Date in Sexual Assault Case 

By Aerial Lopez [former] - February 1, 2023
Burglary | Daily Stories | Sex Abuse | Sexual Assault |

During a Feb. 1 felony arraignment hearing, a  sexual assault trial date was vacated to allow the defense time to reevaluate potential plea offers. 

On July 9, 2022, the defendant allegedly entered an unlocked apartment on the 100 Block of I St., SE. Court documents state the defendant made his way through the apartment and into the victim’s bedroom. 

Once inside, the defendant allegedly attempted to climb into bed with the victim and assault her. He was soon gridlocked by the witness, a 24-hour home nurse. The witness was employed to assist the victim who is a double amputee.

Upon implementing an official investigation, Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officers questioned other residents in the apartment complex. It was discovered that the defendant had previously walked into an adjacent unlocked apartment uninvited and unannounced. After refusing to leave, the defendant was physically removed by the renter.

The defendant is being held in DC Jail for assault with intent to commit first-degree sexual abuse, burglary, and third-degree sexual abuse by use of force. 

Since his initial arrest, court documents from the DC Jail have described the defendant as “unmanageable,” resulting in multiple mental health screenings and competency evaluations. 

Todd S. Baldwin, the defense attorney, entered a plea of not guilty. He also requested a 30-day extension to inform his client of the available plea offers. 

DC Superior Court Judge Anthony C. Epstein approved the request and vacated the trial date previously set for March 6 and scheduled a jury trial in its place for March 13. 

A status hearing is now scheduled for the March 6 date.