DC Supreme Court Judge Jason Park rejected a shooting defendant’s request for release during a hearing on Jan. 20.
Nikia Cunningham, 31, and Bernard Vance, 31, are charged with robbery while armed, five counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, unlawful possession of a firearm, second-degree cruelty to children, possession of firearm during crime of violence, carrying a pistol without a license outside of a home or business, tampering with physical evidence, possession of unregistered firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition, and assault with a dangerous weapon.
The accusations date back to their alleged involvement in a robbery and shooting incident on March 28, 2023, on the 300 block of Franklin Street, NE. One individual sustained injuries during the crime.
On Dec. 16, 2025, a jury acquitted Cunningham of assault with intent to kill while armed and a count of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence.
During the hearing, Cunningham’s attorney, Jesse Winograd, addressed Judge Park about possibly releasing Cunningham.
Winograd argued that the incident occurred more than three years ago, and Cunningham will have to wait for a re-trial, even though she was acquitted of assault with intent to kill –which he argued no longer makes her dangerous to the community, even though her child, was allegedly on her hip at the time of the shooting.
Winograd argued Cunningham had a strong self-defense case.
The prosecutor opposed the request due to the fact that Cunningham was previously convicted and sentenced in connection to a theft and assault case. According to the prosecution, Cunningham allegedly shot a man in the face, and she has been previously jailed.
Judge Park acknowledged the fact that Cunningham’s self-defense claims are strong, but he refuted the request due to her extensive criminal history. He told parties he’d be open to revisiting the request at a later time.
Parties are set to gather again on Jan. 27.
