Juvenile’s Sentencing Delayed for Lack of Placement

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DC Superior Court Judge James Crowell granted the parties’ request to postpone sentencing for a juvenile found guilty of murder while authorities search for a suitable place the child can serve his sentence.

Officials from the DC Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services (DYRS) told both parties they needed additional time to complete a pre-sentencing report and recommendation, in a June 20 hearing.

On May 21, the juvenile, a 16-year-old boy, was convicted of first-and-second-degree murder while armed, assault with intent to murder while armed, assault with intent to kill while armed, possession of an unregistered firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition, and unlawful discharge of a firearm, for his involvement in the fatal shooting of 27-year-old Jihad Darden. The incident occurred on Dec. 18, 2023, on the 5400 block of Illinois Avenue, NW.

The boy was acquitted of carrying a pistol without a license.

Amanda Epstein, the boy’s attorney, and the prosecution alerted Judge Crowell that DYRS had failed to complete a pre-commitment report, in which they typically recommend a place to serve the sentence, and a violence risk assessment.

Because of the delay, parties requested a 30 day continuance.

Parties are slated to reconvene July 30.