Judge Sentences Three Carjacking, Robbery Defendants–Two to Jail, the Third Gets Probation

DC Superior Court Judge Andrea Hertzfeld gave two defendants in a carjacking, robbery case 64 month concurrent sentences but reluctantly released the third suspect on probation in a May 20 hearing.

“I don’t know what I’m supposed to do here,”said Judge Hertzfeld as she considered the fate of Jalen Dyson, 25, convicted with the two others in a crime the judge described as “horrible” and horrendous.”

Dyson was originally charged with robbery while armed. His two co-defendants, Yahshaiyah Enoch, 23, faced a count of armed robbery and Xavier Wall was accused of conspiracy, armed carjacking, possession of a firearm in a crime of violence, robbery while armed, assault to commit robbery while armed and first-degree theft.

According to a police report, on June 23, 2023, officers responded to a robbery call at the Ivy City Motel on the 1600 Block of New York Avenue, NE. The victim said he was following up an Instagram connection he made with a woman the previous day suggesting they meet for a tryst at the motel and sent the woman $120 on a cash app.

However, once in the motel room two men appeared, one pointing a gun at the victim and pistol whipping him in what turned out to be a robbery and a carjacking.

What happened next, said the prosecutor, is that the victim was beaten, stripped naked, hog-tied and $200 was stolen from his wallet. “This could have gone even worse,” she said.

The prosecutor noted this is Wall’s 18th arrest and fifth conviction. “He was the most important cog in the machine,” said the prosecutor. Wall was on probation when the robbery occurred. Surveillance helped police identify the suspects.

The victim didn’t appear but the prosecutor said he felt the perpetrators should face severe punishment for their actions.

Considering their records, the sentencing guidelines for Wall and Enoch were up to 72 months and 32 months, respectively. Dyson could have gone to jail for 28 months.

In contrast to the prosecution’s narrative, Dyson’s attorney, Terrence Austin, said his client was deeply remorseful and was fighting to escape from a troubled background and mental health challenges.

When DC Superior Court Judge Eric Glover found no probable cause that Dyson committed the crime in Nov. of 2023, his case was dismissed.

At that point Dyson went back to school. “That shows recognition. I have agency and the ability to speak for myself,” said Austin on behalf of his client..

An advocate for Dyson addressed the court saying, “The last three years have been a time of transformation.”

However, the case was reopened and in March a Grand Jury indicted Dyson on armed carjacking, robbery and related charges. All three defendants then accepted a prosecution offer to plead guilty.

Fighting back tears, Dyson apologized and said, “I’m not the same person I was in 2023.” He currently works at Frontline Community Services, an agency that provides care to patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities. “They absolutely adore Jalen,” says Austin, who argued for probation.

Wall’s attorney, Carrie Waletz, said his previous arrests were not as serious as the current charges and he doesn’t have a violent record. Citing Wall’s troubled upbringing, she said he wants to be a better father for his five-year-old child. In the DC jail he’s nearing completion of his GED and is learning to be a commercial painter.

Wall also apologized for his actions.

Enoch’s lawyer, John Harvey, said the victim wasn’t lured to the motel. “Unfortunately, the victim thought she met that description.” Harvey described Enoch’s actions as a “cry for help” based on her history of mental illness. He emphasized she’s also working on her GED and wants “to be worthy of the love that now exists in the family.”

In Enoch’s soft-spoken apology, she said she “dreamed to be a better person.”

Acknowledging the challenges facing the defendants, Judge Hertzfeld nonetheless scolded them for committing a “calculated, premeditated [and] horrible offense” against the victim and said the plea deal from the prosecution carried significant benefits.

During the hearing she sentenced Wall and Enoch to 44 months for the robbery charge, a concurrent 20 months for carrying a pistol without a license and three years supervised release..

Judge Hertzfeld rejected a defense effort to invoke the Youth Rehabilitation Act (YRA) which would have given her more flexibility in sentencing and sealed the offenders’ records if they were successful in prison.

Clearly, the judge was struggling to thread the sentencing needle for Dyson. “I don’t doubt for a second you didn’t know what was going to happen,” she mused in considering the 10-to-28 month guideline for Dyson’s offense of attempted conspiracy to commit an act of violence.

“On the other hand, I see the progress you’ve made and the progress you’ve achieved to start over,” said the judge.

Her offer was either do the ten month sentence and be done with it. Or take 28 months suspended and three years supervised release. That’s with the understanding that he will remain employed and seek mental health counseling.

“Talk it over with your lawyer,” said Judge Hertzfeld. After a brief consultation, Dyson took the release option.

“I’m giving you a break, so take advantage of it,” said Judge Hertzfeld. The judge also delayed formally entering Wall’s sentence until he finished his GED at the DC Jail.

No further proceedings were scheduled in the cases.

Homicide Defendant Extradited to DC for 2023 Murder

DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan presided over a homicide defendant’s bench warrant return hearing on May 19, during which the suspect was arraigned for a 2023 murder.

Jasson Vasquez Pineda, 29, is charged with first-degree murder while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 27-year-old Larry Thomas on Aug. 24, 2023 on the 3600 block of 16th Street, NW.

Vasquez Pineda’s mom, Emerita Garcia, 47, was previously charged with first-degree murder while armed for her alleged involvement in the same incident. Prosecutors claimed she helped Vasquez Pineda commit the crime by bringing him a bag, which they argued had the gun which was used to shoot Thomas.

Her case was dismissed without prejudice by the prosecution in the summer of 2024, but it is unclear if they’ll re-open the matter..

Vasquez Pineda was extradited to DC from Georgia, where he was arrested in late April on a bench warrant that was issued in March.

During Vasquez Pineda’s hearing, Camille Wagner, his attorney, alerted the court of his intent to plead not guilty to all charges, and asserted his constitutional rights including the right to a speedy trial.

Wagner also requested Vasquez Pineda be released, or the court to schedule a detention hearing for parties to argue release.

Judge Ryan and the prosecution stated they did not currently have sufficient information on the case to consider arguments for release.

Parties are slated to reconvene June 10.

Judge Curbs Testimony From FBI Location Expert in Homicide Trial

DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan struck some testimony from a Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) special agent on May 14 that prosecutors allege tracked a defendant’s whereabouts at the time of a homicide.

D’Andre Montgomery, 20, is charged with conspiracy, premeditated first-degree murder while armed, felony murder while armed with aggravating circumstances, four counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, attempt to commit robbery while armed, assault with intent to kill while armed, unauthorized use of a vehicle during a crime of violence, and carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 28-year-old Kenneth Barksdale Jr. on Dec. 16, 2023 at the 1200 block of 44th Place, SE. Barksdale sustained multiple gunshot wounds to the abdomen and arms.

Kevin Hider, 20, and Eric Sheffield, 21, also face charges for their alleged involvement in Barksdale’s death but will face separate trials.

The prosecution called a FBI Special Agent and member of the Cellular Analysis Survey Team (CAST), whom the court qualified as an expert in cell site analysis. The agent explained to jurors that cell sites are locations used by carriers to provide service, that call detail records show the date, time, and identifier of a cell site used during a call, and that a phone does not always connect to the closest tower, but rather to the one giving the best signal.

The agent testified that he analyzed records associated with the phone number of Hider and Montgomery’s GPS data provided by the prosecution. Using mapping software, he walked jurors through a series of locations from Dec. 15 and 16, 2023, including Hider’s reported residence, a restaurant called Sarney’s, and the area near the homicide scene. He described instances in which Montgomery’s GPS and Hider’s phone connected to the same cell site, repeatedly using the term “colocated.”

Montgomery’s attorney, Charlotte Gilliland, objected, arguing the testimony was misleading and revisited an earlier ruling from DC Superior Court Judge Judge Dayson that the limitations of cell site analysis needs to be clear. Judge Ryan agreed that the testimony was problematic, finding that the level of accuracy in cell site analysis does not allow for that degree of location specificity.

Instead, Judge Ryan ordered the prosecution to use the language: “the GPS data is within the tower’s cover data, where the phone is most likely to be found.”

When the jury returned, Judge Ryan instructed them that the word “colocation” was stricken from the record, and the testimony that accompanied it should be disregarded.

Direct examination continued with the agent describing additional plot points near the homicide location at 8:06 and 8:07 p. m. on Dec. 16. According to court records, the murder allegedly occurred at 8:08 p. m. on Dec. 16. A series of five calls also connected between 10:01 p. m. and 12:01 a. m. on Dec. 16 and 17, which was consistent with the Montgomery GPS and Hider’s phone being close to one another.

In Gilliland’s cross-examination, the CAST agent acknowledged that he had only reviewed Hider’s phone records, not Montgomery’s, and that cell site analysis connects a phone to a tower rather than a specific address. Gilliland emphasized that the prosecution had provided all of Montgomery’s GPS data to the FBI.

Gilliland also confirmed with the agent that there was a lack of representation of cell tower reach in the prosecution’s exhibits and that there were many other overlapping cell sites in the regions they were found. He also testified that no cell site information suggested Montgomery’s phone was present when a Chevy Malibu was stolen from the 3200 block of O Street, SE on Dec. 15, 2023, the vehicle prosecutors allege the defendants drove to the homicide scene the following night.

According to court documents, ballistics casings recovered from inside the stolen Malibu were later linked to casings from the homicide scene, and Montgomery’s GPS ankle monitor allegedly placed him near the site of the theft at the time it occurred.

On redirect, the agent told jurors that the absence of data does not mean a phone was not in a given location, and that it is common for the prosecution to provide the locations he plots.

The prosecution also called a patrol officer from the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), who was recalled to testify about firearms recovered during the investigation. The officer told jurors that five firearms were located in connection with the case, and that three people were arrested on the night of the shooting.

On cross-examination, Gilliland emphasized that the prosecution had not asked the officer about the firearms during her previous testimony, and had not informed her that she would be recalled.

The prosecution then established that all of the evidence the officer testified about existed before her prior appearance, and that they were not attempting to hide evidence.

The trial is set to resume on May 18.

Judge Finds Probable Cause That Teen Fatally Shot Friend After Stolen Gun Dispute

DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman found probable cause and denied release on May 13 for a defendant accused of fatally shooting his friend because of a stolen gun.

Treshawn Herndon, 18, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 18-year-old Raymond Washington on June 30, 2024 on the 700 block of Marietta Place, NW. Washington died from a gunshot wound to his back.

Byron Sneed, 41, is charged with first-degree murder while armed in a drive-by or random shooting for his alleged involvement as the getaway driver.

At Herndon’s preliminary hearing, the prosecution called the lead Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) detective on the case and played video footage. The first video, the detective said, showed Herndon, Washington, an unidentified juvenile suspect, and an eyewitness in the hallway inside Herndon’s residence at the time, on the 5500 block of Illinois Avenue, NW.

The detective said he learned in his investigation that the video showed a fight between Herndon and Washington, reportedly over a gun. Herndon’s relative told the detective that Herndon called them and said Washington stole his gun.

Then, the detective said, the video showed Washington allegedly run down the hallway and Herndon run after him, followed by the juvenile suspect and eyewitness. A short time later, the detective said video showed Herndon and the juvenile suspect returning to Herndon’s residence.

In another video, the detective said Herndon and the juvenile suspect entered the suspect vehicle, allegedly driven by Sneed. According to the detective, both suspects reportedly sat on the passenger side, Herndon in the front seat and the juvenile in the back.

The detective noted that in multiple videos, the eyewitness walked several steps ahead of Washington prior to the shooting, significant because Washington sustained a single gunshot wound to his back.

In a different video, Washington and the eyewitness run into view, followed by the suspect vehicle. The detective noted the vehicle’s front passenger window was down and the rear passenger window was up. Although there’s no video footage of the shooting itself, according to the detective’s theory of the case, Herndon allegedly fired the fatal shot from the front passenger window.

Video footage then showed the eyewitness run down the street and jump over bushes into a yard on the 5700 block of 7th Street, NW.

The detective described video footage of the suspect vehicle driving down 7th Street, making a U-turn, and heading back towards where Washington’s body was found. The suspect vehicle stopped on the video, the juvenile suspect exited the vehicle, went in the direction of Washington’s body, and then returned to the vehicle. The footage then showed the vehicle drop the suspects off and then they returned to Herndon’s reported residence.

In cross-examination, Herndon’s attorney, Carrie Weletz, confirmed with the detective that there was no video of the actual shooting and witness accounts of what occurred varied. Weletz noted two witnesses told the detective Washington was injured and then pushed out of the vehicle and two said Washington was chased. In addition, one witness also said they saw someone standing over Washington with a gun.

The eyewitness was the only person who said shots were fired out of a car, noted Weletz, and emphasized that he fled the shooting and jumped over a bush, had open criminal cases, and was forthcoming with information. The detective clarified that the eyewitness was comfortable relating the narrative of events but not naming the suspects.

Weletz also noted that Herndon and Washington were friends and the detective had no information about fights between them prior to the day of the shooting. In addition, no firearm was recovered.

The prosecutor clarified with the detective that there was no evidence to suggest Washington was dropped from the vehicle and no indication of anyone chasing him.

After the detective finished his testimony, Weletz argued there was no probable cause and claimed the detective’s testimony synthesized the holes in the evidence. The video footage had a blindspot when the actual shooting occurred and there was no forensic, video, or witness that identified Herndon as the person in the car who shot from the passenger seat.

Weletz emphasized the witnesses “wildly different accounts” of what occurred and said no witness, including the eyewitness, identified Herndon as the shooter or said he was involved. Weletz argued it was “wild assumptions” to believe Herndon was in the suspect vehicle and shot out of it.

Judge Edelman noted the low standard and found probable cause for the charge against Herndon. The judge noted the significant evidence of a fight between Herndon and Washington a short time prior at Herndon’s residence.

Judge Edelman said, “The video [in Herndon’s residence] is enough to establish his identity.” Herndon entered the suspect vehicle and a shooting occurred shortly after with the only window down where he was seated. The bullets found in the vehicle likely matched the ones used in the shooting.

Although Judge Edelman agreed with Weletz that the evidence was inferential, he concluded the only way the shooting could have happened was from that car. The other witness accounts are contradicted by video footage, not corroborated, said the judge.

Weletz then asked for Herndon’s release on home confinement with an exception for him to attend and complete high school. According to Weletz, Herndon would live with his godmother, had no adult criminal history, and the prosecution overstated their case. The case lacked physical evidence, was purely circumstantial, and had varying witness accounts, argued Weletz.

The prosecutor requested Herndon remain held because “If you’re willing to kill a friend,” then there is significant risk to the community at large. The case showed Herndon’s easy access to firearms, argued the prosecutor, because his gun was stolen and he quickly retrieved another one used in the murder. They added that the firearm used in the case was not recovered and potentially still accessible to Herndon.

Judge Edelman denied Herndon’s release because of the nature and circumstances of the incident. Herndon apparently had property taken from him and his response was violent and deadly, said the judge. It was “entirely premeditated,” said Judge Edelman, and although the case is circumstantial and inferential, it is fairly strong.

The parties are scheduled to reconvene on Sept. 11 before DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan.

Jury Convicts Homicide Defendant of Alley Shooting After 1-Month Trial

A jury convicted a homicide defendant on a lesser-included offense of second-degree murder before DC Superior Court Judge Danya Dayson on May 12.

Jamil Whitley, 38, was initially charged with first-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business, and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction greater than a year for his involvement in the fatal shooting of 32-year-old Kevin Redd on June 11, 2020 on the 4700 block of Jay Street, NE. Redd sustained three gunshot wounds to his shoulder, chest, and forearm.

After approximately eight days of deliberations, the jury unanimously found Whitley not guilty of first-degree murder, but guilty of second-degree murder while armed. The jury also found Whitley guilty of the remaining three counts.

Whitley’s trial began on April 2. Throughout, the prosecution attempted to prove that Whitley and Redd met at a Shell gas station on the 4300 block of Nannie Helen Burroughs Avenue, NE. The prosecution claimed Whitley returned minutes later in a different car, with a mask on, and alone. Redd entered Whitley’s car and they drove to a nearby alley, where Whitley shot and killed Redd.

Whitley’s attorneys, Madalyn Harvey and James Brockway, argued their client was not guilty but that he sold Redd marijuana, dropped him off, and then heard gunshots. The defense also noted investigators did not collect sufficient evidence from the crime scene and the lead detective failed to follow up with potential witnesses.

Whitley’s sentencing is scheduled for July 17.

Court of Appeals Requires Judge to Reconsider Shooting Defendant’s Motion to Withdraw Guilty Plea

The prosecution told DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman on May 19 that they will not oppose a shooting defendant’s withdrawal of his guilty plea following a mandate from the DC Court of Appeals.

Alvin Jackson, 32, was initially charged with conspiracy while armed, three counts of assault with intent to kill while armed, three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and three counts of criminal street gang affiliation for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting that injured three people on May 2, 2020 on the 5000 block of H Street, SE.

In a separate case, Jackson was charged with aggravated assault knowingly while armed for his alleged involvement in a stabbing at the DC Jail on the 1900 block of D Street, SE on Aug. 5, 2022.

Jackson pleaded guilty on April 20, 2023 to assault with intent to kill while armed in the shooting case and assault with a dangerous weapon in the stabbing case. Then, on Dec. 19, 2023, DC Superior Court Judge Anthony Epstein sentenced Jackson to a total of 12 years of imprisonment for both charges, followed by five years of supervised release.

A mandate from the DC Court of Appeals filed on March 13, vacated Judge Epstein’s prior ruling and ordered the trial court to reassess whether Jackson could withdraw his plea.

According to the Court of Appeals ruling, Jackson’s former attorney, Euphus Belu-John, incorrectly said he could talk the judge down to an eight-year sentence, despite the plea agreement requiring a 12-year sentence. The mandate stated that Judge Epstein found Belu-John made these statements but denied the motion because Jackson did not demonstrate the incorrect advice caused him to accept the plea offer.

However, the appellate court declared Judge Epstein misinterpreted the factors considered in a motion to withdraw a guilty plea. The law does not require Jackson to demonstrate that his ineffective counsel prompted his guilty plea.

At the hearing, the prosecutor said they will not oppose Jackson’s withdrawal of his guilty plea.

Steven Kiersh, Jackson’s current attorney, informed parties that Jackson was not present because he was in custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP). As a result, parties scheduled a new hearing to allow time for Jackson’s transfer back to DC.

The parties are scheduled to reconvene on July 17.

‘This is a Total Joke,’ Says Judge of Delayed Prosecution for Shooting

DC Superior Court Judge Judith Pipe scolded the prosecution for its handling of a case that has ricocheted among three judges since last September. The judge seemed incredulous that prosecutors still hadn’t figured out if they wanted to try the defendant on May 18.

“This is a total joke,” said Pipe.

Alonzo Hinton, 39, is charged with simple assault and possession of a prohibited weapon for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting on Sept. 20, 2025 on the 100 block of Atlantic Street, SE. No injuries were reported. The issue arose from an argument over payment for a pair of pants.

“This case has gotten kicked around,” said Judge Pipe and she said prosecutors were close to violating Hinton’s right to a speedy trial. “It seems like someone dropped the ball,” she continued, insisting the prosecution clarify its intent in a case that’s now been downgraded to a misdemeanor from an original felony charge.

“This is very demandable,” said Judge Pipe regarding a jury trial. Ultimately, the prosecutor agreed to a date of Aug. 13 without explaining why the case had been in limbo.

However, the prosecutor was opposed to Hinton’s continued pre-trial release. He said that Hinton had failed to comply with reporting requirements.

Defense attorney Ferguson Evans argued that HInton should stay on release since the issue was a stay-away order and work out the terms with his case manager.

Judge Pipe agreed to continue Hinton’s release and she had some final harsh words for the prosecutor.

“If the government is not ready, I will dismiss the case,” said Judge Pipe.

The next hearing on the case is scheduled for July 10.

‘Miraculous That I Made it Out’ of Deadly Mass Shooting, Says Wounded Victim

A surviving victim described his “miraculous” survival after being shot four times in his testimony during a homicide trial before DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt on May 13.

Cotey Wynn, 45, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed, three counts of assault with intent to kill while armed, and four counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 31-year-old Blake Bozeman and as well as three surviving victims. The incident occurred on Sept. 23, 2023, at CRU Lounge on the 1300 block of H Street, NE.

According to prosecutors, Wynn allegedly aided and abetted the shooter by facilitating his entry into the club with a firearm.

At trial, the prosecution presented testimony from a surviving victim, former CRU Lounge employees, a security guard, and a first-responding Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officer in an effort to establish the events leading up to the shooting and its aftermath.

A surviving victim and a security guard at CRU, testified he was preparing to leave the club to pick up his girlfriend from the airport when he saw a “flash” and felt multiple gunshots. He described the shooter as wearing “an open white cardigan,” and detailing “off-white cream, eggshell, some shade of white.”

He testified that he sustained injuries to his spine, a broken scapula, and a broken elbow. The witness said a bullet remained lodged in his neck because doctors determined removal would be too dangerous.

During testimony about the aftermath of the shooting, the surviving victim described lying on the floor while hearing another victim scream. He testified that he saw what appeared to be a “lifeless body” nearby and heard a young woman say she had been shot in the neck.

The witness described the scene after the shooting as “just chaos.”

The surviving victim described the physical and financial toll of his injuries. “I was shot four times and it’s miraculous that I made it out,” the surviving victim said. He testified that he returned to work approximately two weeks after the shooting because he feared his car would be repossessed.

The surviving victim also testified that he discharged himself from the hospital on the third day because he could not afford the medical expenses associated with a longer stay.

“It’s a cold world, but it’s always going to keep spinning,” the victim said.

The witness also recalled thinking, “He’s just going to shoot me while I’m down,” after collapsing to the floor as gunfire continued.

Due to time constraints, the victim’s testimony will resume the next day of trial.

Before witness testimony began, parties discussed the limits of witness testimony related to surveillance footage shown to jurors. Judge Brandt emphasized that security guards should not narrate videos or speculate on what was in someone else’s mind. “None of you should be narrating videos about things that you weren’t there to participate in,” Judge Brandt said.

Then, the prosecution called a former lounge manager who testified about the layout of the establishment and Wynn’s status as a regular patron. The witness said Wynn frequently arranged reservations through staff and was accommodated even when the club was full.

Wynn’s attorney, Brian McDaniel questioned the former lounge manager about her dual role at the establishment, confirming she worked both as a general manager and in IT. McDaniel also asked whether the establishment was considered a more intimate lounge or a high-energy club, to which the witness responded, “that’s still in the air.”

McDaniel showed surveillance footage from the night of the shooting and highlighted that Wynn was seated beside the former lounge manager smoking from a hookah. The witness also confirmed that Wynn flirted with her, but she testified she rejected his advances. McDaniel further pointed out a security guard shown in the footage, which the witness confirmed was one of the surviving victims who was shot that night.

McDaniel also asked whether the witness was aware of any conflict between Wynn and the security guard who was shot. She testified she was not aware of any problems between them and further mentioned she was not responsible for security staffing the night of the shooting.

The prosecution then presented testimony from a former bottle server who identified Wynn in surveillance footage from the night of the shooting. The witness testified that Wynn regularly contacted her personal cell phone to arrange reservations and often received discounts on bottles with management approval.

McDaniel questioned the witness about Wynn’s frequent visits to the club and confirmed that Wynn regularly contacted her directly to arrange accommodations. The former server testified she earned approximately 18 percent gratuity on bottle sales and stated premium bottles ranged between 300 and 400 dollars.

The witness also testified she frequently served Wynn and confirmed he never skipped out on any debt. She additionally said Wynn often received discounts on bottles, but management or ownership approval was required before discounts were applied.

As testimony continued, another security guard described the shooting as a “traumatic experience” and demonstrated the club’s pat-down procedures for jurors. The witness testified that security personnel were not instructed to conduct pat-downs on Wynn or his associates because he was widely accepted at the establishment.

McDaniel queried the security guard about the trauma he experienced following the shooting and whether it affected his memory. The witness acknowledged he had “patches” in his memory and confirmed surveillance footage was used to refresh his recollection during prior grand jury testimony in October 2025.

McDaniel also asked about Wynn’s status as a regular customer at the club. The witness agreed it was common for security staff to greet Wynn with handshakes when he arrived. McDaniel further questioned whether security procedures became “less thorough” when regular patrons briefly left and reentered the club. The witness agreed that searches of regular patrons could be less thorough upon reentry.

The security guard also confirmed he never saw Wynn return to the club with anyone visibly carrying a firearm.

The prosecution also called a first-responding Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officer who testified about arriving at the lounge and securing the second floor after the shooting. In body-worn camera footage presented to jurors, the officer signaled for three ambulances with his fingers after locating three victims upstairs, according to his testimony.

During cross-examination, McDaniel asked the officer about his response upon reaching the second floor of the lounge.

The officer testified that his first command was “everybody out,” which was heard in a body-worn camera video shown to the jurors. The officer explained that he cleared the area for safety purposes and to allow emergency personnel to provide medical treatment.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on May 14 to resume the trial.

Domestic Violence Stabbing Defendant Receives Suspended Sentence

DC Superior Court Judge Andrea Hertzfeld imposed a suspended and probationary sentence on a defendant who stabbed his child’s mother, on May 18.

On March 17, Mark Henry, 38, pleaded guilty to attempted assault with a dangerous weapon for his involvement in the stabbing of his daughter’s mother on Nov. 10, 2025 at the intersection of Sycamore and Oak Drives, SE. The woman sustained injuries to her under arm.

During the hearing, the victim told Judge Hertzfeld “he doesn’t need the maximum [sentence],” stating the aftermath of the incident has affected their daughter more than anything. She requested Judge Hertzfeld be lenient on Henry.

The victim added she wants Henry to understand the trauma he’s put them through.

The prosecution asked for a sentence of 16 months, with all but 10 months suspended, and probation. They also requested he be ordered to undergo a domestic violence intervention program and anger management, and stay away from the victim.

Henry’s attorney, Tonya Harris, stated he recognizes the seriousness of his conduct and the injuries he caused. According to Harris, the thing he’s most concerned about is the impact this will have on their daughter in the long term.

Harris requested Judge Hertzfeld impose a 24 month sentence, with all but six months suspended. Harris stated they had established a plan for him to participate in drug rehabilitation, vocational training in a sterile processing technician program, and psychiatric work to improve his mental health issues. Harris stated Henry hopes to start rebuilding his relationship with his daughter.

Henry stated he was sorry for injuring “the love of my life for 16 years,” and negatively impacting his daughter. He expressed regret for missing her first year of high school.

“Wow, she’s at a time where she really needs you,” Judge Hertzfeld stated.

“I’m just heartbroken that I broke every woman in my family’s heart.” He added the mistake was “unquantifiable.”

Judge Hertzfeld told Henry “it’s going to take some time to fix some of what you’ve done,” adding, “you aren’t doing your family any good sitting here in front of me. It’s not too late to make a change.”

She imposed a 24 month sentence, suspended as to all but six months, with credit for time served. She also imposed 18 months of probation, during which she will consistently check on him.

She ordered him to be on home confinement and GPS monitoring for the first three months, allowing him to leave for treatment and court. He must undergo all the programs the defense requested.

“You’ve got 18 months hanging over your head,” Judge Hertzfeld told Henry, stating he should view it as an incentive to ensure he stays in compliance with the release plan.

Parties are returning Aug. 17 to check in on Henry’s progress in probation.

Judge Re-Orders Mental Evaluation for Stabbing Defendant

DC Superior Court Judge Andrea Hertzfeld re-ordered mental health evaluation for a stabbing defendant on May 18.

Edward Cowser, 46, is charged with assault with significant bodily injury while armed and assault with a dangerous weapon for his alleged involvement in a stabbing that occurred on May 8 at a gas station on the 3000 block of Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE. One individual sustained injuries during the incident.

During the hearing, Judge Hertzfeld alerted the parties she had received a report from the Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) stating Cowser had refused to participate in the evaluation DC Superior Court Judge Dorsey Jones had ordered on May 12.

Anthony Dimillo, Cowser’s attorney, alerted Judge Hertzfeld his refusal had been a miscommunication between correctional officers and Cowser.

Judge Hertzfeld reminded Cowser it is important for him to participate in the evaluation in order for the case to progress. In order for a defendant to stand trial, he must be mentally compentent enough to understand the charges against him and assist his attorney.

She re-ordered the evaluation.

Parties are slated to reconvene May 21.

Judge Imposes Partially Suspended Sentence in Union Station Manslaughter

DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman imposed a partially suspended sentence for a homicide defendant on May 15.

On Jan. 23, Faizon Mason, 23, pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter and carrying a pistol without a license for his involvement in the fatal shooting of 18-year-old Wayne McDaniels The incident occurred on Feb. 10, 2025 at Union Station on the unit block of Massachusetts Avenue, NE.

Many McDaniels’ family members provided victim impact statements during the hearing, including his mom, who stated, “Not a day goes by that I don’t miss my child.”

“To you, Faizon Mason, you took a big part of my life. Whatever went down, and how it went down… you chased my son down like an animal and killed him. You still have your life, right? Your mama can still talk to you, right? I can’t talk to my son, unless I talk to his ashes,” McDaniels’ mom cried

She continued, stating “Y’all have to stop and think about your actions before you do it. Carrying a gun doesn’t make you a man, it makes you a coward.” McDaniels’ mom further argued the family’s disagreement with the plea deal, saying “I’m not happy with the verdict of manslaughter. My son was shot in the back, chased down.”

“Faizon Mason, you have a lot of thinking to do. A lot to think about while you’re behind bars. Whatever your sentence is today, I hope and pray that you learn your lesson from this. And I hope and pray that you never get out of jail,” she concluded.

McDaniels’ girlfriend’s mom highlighted the suffering McDaniels’ and Mason’s families are enduring, stating “two lives lost, two mothers suffering.”

The prosecution argued,“iI’s safe to say that this is obviously a very tragic case,” claiming it stemmed from McDaniels and a group of friends trying to rob Mason at Union Station at gun point, with surveillance footage depicting McDaniels pressing a gun to Mason’s side.

“This is a case of gun violence, that could’ve been easily preventable,” the prosecution insisted, stating Mason went to Union Station armed with a firearm he illegally possessed, and McDaniel swas attempting to commit a crime during the incident. However, they argued, when the shooting occurred, McDaniesl was no longer posing a threat to Mason, who still decided to shoot at him multiple times, surrounded by commuters who could’ve also been injured.

“Firing as [McDaniels] is running away is extremely concerning,” the prosecution argued, asking for a guideline compliant sentence, which would be 48-to-120 months for manslaughter, and six-to-24 months for carrying a weapon, but did not provide a specific request.

Destiny Fullwood-Singh, Mason’s attorney, highlighted the tragedy that was this case, but argued Mason took full responsibility for his involvement. She insisted Mason did not go to Union Station looking for McDaniels or for anything, and argued he was followed into an enclosed space and McDaniels attempted to rob him at gunpoint.

“It was a wrong response to a real armed threat,” Fullwood-Singh said. She argued Mason has untreated complex post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from repeated violence, has an IQ of 73, and was robbed twice earlier that week.

She further argued that despite McDaniels running away, Mason didn’t feel safe because his threat detection response was harmed by years of violence and victimization.

She requested Judge Edelman impose a sentence under the Youth Rehabilitation Act (YRA) of 18 months for voluntary manslaughter, suspended, with a concurrent sentence for the carrying a pistol charge.

The YRA allows for a defendant’s conviction to be sealed if they successfully complete all sentencing requirements. The defense highlighted several mitigating factors, including factor one, which allows for the defendant’s conduct to be partially excused if the victim was an aggressor, initiator, provoker or willing participant of the incident, in order to get a sentence below the sentencing guidelines.

Fullwood-Singh also read a letter written by Mason, in which he stated “‘I’m sorry’ doesn’t feel like enough.” He argued he acted out of fear during the incident, stating McDaniels “still had the gun in his hand,” as he ran away.

“This was a horrible mistake,” Mason said in the letter, adding he’ll spend the rest of his life regretting what he’s done.

“This is just terrible,” Judge Edelman stated, arguing there were two lives impacted by this incident, with one being lost and the other being locked up.

“It was reckless. This wasn’t something that just happened in the middle of the night in the corner of the street,” Judge Edelman said, stating everyone in Union Station was endangered.

He stated that despite McDaniels being the aggressor, “losing someone like that is a tragedy.”

“Respectfully, this was manslaughter,” Judge Edelman told McDaniels’ family, “the provocation was there by Mr. McDaniels, and I can’t ignore his violence.”

“Mr. Mason, you took a life, and you did so in a way that also endangered other people, and I can’t ignore that,” Judge Edelman avowed. He imposed a partially suspended sentence to try to motivate Mason to do well.

Judge Edelman imposed a 96 month sentence for voluntary manslaughter, everything suspended except for 36 months, and five years of probation. He is to serve a concurrent sentence of eight months suspended for carrying a pistol without a license.

Judge Edelman further ordered Mason to get his GED while incarcerated, undergo substance abuse and mental health treatment, and complete 90 hours of community service.

No further dates were set.

‘I Ain’t No Menace,’ Says Murder Defendant at Sentencing

In a killing the prosecutor termed “entirely avoidable,” Tremon Jackson, 22, was sentenced to 120 months imprisonment for voluntary manslaughter before DC Superior Court Judge Danya Dayson on May 15.

Jackson was originally charged with second-degree murder while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in the murder of 20-year-old Charles Towles on the 1400 block of L Street, SE that occurred on Nov. 4, 2023.

Detailing the events leading to the killing with three surveillance clips, the prosecutor noted Jackson approached Towles outside an apartment building in a red Toyota Prius, appearing to have a casual conversation.

Then inexplicably, Jackson and an unidentified suspect ran out of the building with loaded guns and attacked the victim.

“Certainly [Jackson] provokes the confrontation,” said the prosecutor. Then a tussle ensued followed by two guns firing, continued the prosecutor. She said at that moment a mother and two children were walking into the building.

“Jackson made the worst possible decision,” said the prosecutor. She also said this wasn’t Jackson’s first contact with the criminal justice system in that he was previously arrested but not convicted on a gun charge. Based on the circumstances, the prosecutor said a 15 year sentence was warranted in the return for dropping the murder charge in a plea bargain.

In a victim impact statement from a friend read by the prosecutor, Towles was eulogized as a good young man and his death was “a loss of hope and future to the world”. The friend continued that a maximum sentence was critical to resolve the case.

“This is a terrible, terrible situation,”said Russell Hairston, Jackson’s attorney. “Our streets aren’t safe but everyone feels they have to have a firearm.” Arguing for a ten year sentence, he said, “If the court is lenient, the court won’t see [Jackson] again.

Hairston asked that Jackson be sentenced under the Youth Rehabilitation Act (YRA) which gives judges more flexibility and allows a conviction to be sealed if a young offender successfully completes their term. .

Jackson apologized for what happened to Towles and said that the situation left him speechless.

“Everybody looks at me as a menace,” he said “I ain’t no menace.” I hold the family together,” he continued.

Judge Dayson said she had a difficult time understanding what led Jackson to the point.

“I hope you use your time in order to find a different path,” she said. The judge sentenced Jackson to 120 months for voluntary manslaughter. He must also serve five years of supervised release, register as a gun offender and pay $100 to the Victims of Violent Crimes Fund.

No further proceedings are scheduled in the case.

Defense Wants 2016 Murder Case Against Mentally Incompetent Defendant Dismissed

A defense attorney asked DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz on May 15 to dismiss a 10-year-old homicide case against his client after the court deemed him mentally incompetent to stand trial five years ago.

Brandon Byrd, 30, is charged with first-degree murder while armed and carrying a dangerous weapon outside a home or business for his alleged involvement in the fatal stabbing of his dad, 48-year-old Otis Byrd on Aug. 10, 2016 on the 100 block of Michigan Avenue, NW.

According to court records, pursuant to Jackson v. Indiana (1972), Brandon was found incompetent to stand trial on March 22, 2021. To stand trial, a defendant must understand the charges against them and be able to assist in their defense. After the Jackson finding, the court granted the prosecution’s request to commit Brandon to Saint Elizabeths Hospital for treatment under a civil commitment to restore his competency.

The parties have since met once a year to check in about Brandon’s competency and renew his mental status.

At the hearing, Judge Kravitz acknowledged the five year mark had passed since the Jackson finding, but because of the seriousness of the charges, the law did not require him to dismiss the case.

Brandon’s attorney, Craig Hickein, made an oral request to dismiss the charges without prejudice, meaning the prosecution can refile them at a later date. Hickein argued it would cause no harm to prosecutors and noted Brandon’s in-patient commitment to Saint Elizabeths for at least the next year.

The prosecutor opposed dismissal but said if Hickein filed a written motion, they would respond, and parties could litigate the issue. Judge Kravitz agreed that the defense should file their request and if necessary, he would schedule a hearing.

The parties are scheduled to reconvene on May 14, 2027.

Defendant Waives DNA Testing in Confessional Intern Murder Case

One of three suspects in the murder of a Congressional intern waived his right to perform independent DNA testing on May 15 before DC Superior Court Judge Danya Dayson.

Naqwan Lucas, 19, his brother Jailen Lucas, 17, and Kelvin Thomas, 17, are charged with conspiracy, first-degree premeditated murder while armed in a drive-by or random shooting, four counts of assault with intent to kill while armed, three counts of aggravated assault knowingly while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, and nine counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, for their alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 21-year-old Eric Tarpinian-Jachym on June 30, 2025 on the 1200 block of 7th Street, NW.

The shooting also injured a woman and a 16-year-old juvenile male.

According to a release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Tarpinian-Jachym was caught in the line of fire when “three armed suspects exited a stolen vehicle and began firing shots at two young men” in downtown DC. Tarpinian-Jachym was hit four times and died the following day.

Jailen and Thomas are charged under Title 16, which allows prosecutors to try juveniles as adults for certain serious offenses.

Judge Dayson explained to Naqwan that if he chose not to do his own DNA testing, he would not likely be able to do so if he were convicted.

Represented by Megan Allburn, Naqwan declined to test the prosecution’s evidence in the high-profile case, an option guaranteed by the Innocence Protection Act (IPA). Judge Dayson accepted his decision.

At a hearing on April 16 the prosecutor detailed DNA testing of items conducted after the co-defendants were arrested. They include two firearm cartridge casings reportedly implicating Jailen, a Bic Lighter linked to Jailen and Naqwan Lucas, and recovered DNA from the car allegedly tied to Kelvin Thomas.

Profiles derived from DNA analysis can generate a high statistical probability that evidence in a case comes from the defendant.

An eight-page filing submitted by the U.S. The Attorney’s Office also in April listed hundreds of pages of evidentiary items to be introduced at trial including a mouth swab to extract Naqwan’s DNA. The prosecution sent the results to the defense teams for each co-defendant.

The next hearing in the case is scheduled for Aug. 28

Stabbing Defendant on Suicide Watch Misses Hearing

A defense attorney informed DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz that his client in a stabbing case was on suicide watch after he failed to appear for his hearing on May 15.

Rubin Holman, 32, is charged with assault with intent to kill while armed and aggravated assault knowingly while armed for his alleged involvement in a stabbing on Oct. 4, 2022 on the 600 block of Pennsylvania Avenue, SE. The victim sustained a wound to his neck.

Throughout his case, Holman missed hearings on multiple occasions. According to court records, since Holman’s arrest in the case in December 2023, he refused to appear in court for at least seven hearings as well as being a “medical scratch” at least seven times.

At the current hearing, Judge Kravitz noticed Holman’s absence and asked his attorney, Kevin Mosley, whether Holman would be present. Mosley informed parties that Holman was on suicide watch at the Correctional Treatment Facility (CTF), a medium security facility in the DC Department of Corrections (DOC) adjacent to the DC Jail.

Mosley elaborated that Holman had one-on-one observation with a medical personnel at CTF and they could not transport him to the courthouse for the hearing. According to Mosley, it was not an isolated incident because Holman attempted to take his own life several times since his incarceration.

Judge Kravitz asked whether the court could take any action to alleviate the situation. Mosley requested Holman remain held at CTF after he’s off suicide watch because most of Holman’s complaints related to his unit at the DC Jail. Judge Kravitz granted Mosley’s request and recommended Holman remain at CTF.

The prosecutor also revoked a plea agreement they extended to Holman because of the length of time without a decision. They did not read the terms of the offer on the record since Holman was absent.

To allow time for Holman’s health to improve, Judge Kravitz suggested scheduling a new hearing a month later.

The parties are scheduled to reconvene on June 12.

Search