Judge Weighs Granting House Arrest for Non-Fatal Shooting Defendant 

By Payton Anderson - January 31, 2024
Non-Fatal Shooting | Shooting |

On January 31, Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan requested additional time to decide if she would release a defendant involved in a non-fatal shooting to house arrest. 

Eric Davis, 35, is charged with assault with the intention to kill while armed for his alleged shooting of a local restaurant employee. The incident occurred on the afternoon of May 30, 2023, on the 1400 block of H Street, NE.  

Davis waived his right to a preliminary hearing, advised to do so by his defense attorney, Michael Bruckheim. Bruckheim proceeded to motion for Davis to be placed on house arrest in anticipation of further court appearances. 

Bruckheim detailed how Davis would be able to reside at his girlfriend’s home in the District. Bruckehim described that not only had Davis been “providing for the household as a whole,” but he also demonstrated a keen interest in joining the military upon his potential release. 

Bruckheim said Davis’ support system, drive for a career, and minimal criminal history suggest that he would be cooperative with his potential release conditions. 

“This would be an opportunity for Davis to show that he can be compliant with the stricter form of release,” Bruckheim said. 

According to the prosecution, however, Davis should remain held. 

“There hasn’t been a change in circumstances” the prosecution argued. “House arrest will not protect the community.” 

The prosecution pointed out the violent nature of the incident, which was captured by surveillance footage obtained from the restaurant, alleging that Davis knew the victim before the crime. There are “multiple angles” of camera footage that show a figure resembling Davis pulling out a gun and shooting the victim, the prosecution said. 

According to court documents, several witnesses were able to identify Davis by comparing the surveillance footage and pictures of Davis. The footage also reveals that the victim was shot in the chest and stomach several times. 

“It is just by luck that the victim was not killed,” the prosecution said. 

Judge Raffinan said she would need to review the case further before deciding on whether to hold or release Davis to house arrest. 

Parties are slated to return on May 2.