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By
Alex Garcia Pecina
- December 2, 2024
Daily Stories
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Non-Fatal Shooting
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Suspects
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DC Superior Court Judge Robert Salerno alerted parties that an assault defendant was deemed mentally competent to stand trial on Nov. 26.
Michael Lopez, 21, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for his alleged involvement in a stabbing on Nov. 10 on the 6900 block of 4th Street, NW. One officer was injured.
According to court documents, an on-duty armed special police officer observed Lopez allegedly concealing two bottles of beer as he passed the store exit without paying. The officer ordered Lopez to stop. He then allegedly produced a large silver knife and began to walk towards her when she fired and wounded him fearing for her safety and the safety of others.
During the hearing, Judge Salerno informed the court that the Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) mental competency report revealed that Lopez was competent to stand trial. However, they asked that Lopez have a Spanish-speaking attorney assigned to his case.
Darryl Daniels, Lopez’s attorney, did not object to the request and he made an oral motion to withdraw from the case.
Judge Salerno granted the oral request and appointed Escoto to Lopez’s case.
Parties are slated to reconvene Dec. 11.