Thank you for reading D.C. Witness.
Consider making a donation to help us continue our mission.
By
Leah Meyer
, Raina Bonifacio - March 13, 2025
Carjacking
|
Daily Stories
|
Suspects
|
A carjacking defendant was denied release during a preliminary hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Robert Hildum on March 11.
Eric Woods, 17, is charged with three counts of armed carjacking, three counts of robbery while armed, and three counts of possession of a firearm during crime of violence, for his alleged involvement in multiple carjackings.
Woods is charged as an adult under Title 16 which gives prosecutors discretion in handling more serous cases.
Woods was allegedly involved in a carjacking last May 8 at the intersection of 7th and A Streets, SE. According to court documents, the three victims were delivering newspapers when one stepped out of a vehicle and was approached by a suspect from behind with a black rifle. The suspect demanded the other two exit the vehicle and proceeded to drive away.
Woods was also allegedly involved in a carjacking on May 13 on the 2100 block of Suitland Terrace, SE. According to court documents, the victim reported that he had just exited his parked car when one of the suspects, armed with a gun, approached him and demanded his keys, phone, and other belongings.
Woods is also charged in connection to an Oct. 11 carjacking incident that occurred at North Capitol and O Streets, NW, during which the defendant allegedly approached the victim’s vehicle armed with a rifle.
Gregg Baron, Woods’ defense attorney, alerted Judge Hildum of their intent to waive preliminary hearing rights. Baron argued for Woods’ release, stating that he is only 17 and has been pursuing his education while detained in the Youth Detention Center.
The prosecution opposed the request, referencing his alleged involvement in multiple serious crimes which span several months. The prosecutor acknowledged his academic achievements in jail, but found no indication he will do well in the community.
Judge Hildum denied Woods’ request for release, taking into consideration the nature of the crimes and called juvenile behavior “unpredictable.”
Parties are slated to reconvene April 4.