Guilty Plea in Sexual Encounter Turned Armed Carjacking

A carjacking defendant, who after a sexual encounter threatened to shoot the victim in the head if he did not comply with a robbery, accepted a plea deal before DC Superior Court Judge Robert Salerno on March 12.

Da’Andre Pardlow, 31, was originally charged with carjacking while armed, kidnapping while armed, and robbery while armed for his involvement in a carjacking. The incident occurred on Sept. 13, 2024 at Fort Dupont Park, SE.

In court, Pardlow accepted a plea agreement that required him to plead guilty to unarmed carjacking and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence and register as a gun offender. In exchange, the prosecution agreed to not seek indictment and drop all other charges.

Through the deal, parties agreed 84 months in confinement and three years of supervised release as appropriate for the charges against Pardlow. Judge Salerno will review the sentencing recommendation. Should Salerno reject it, Pardlow can rescind his guilty plea.

According to the prosecution, had the case gone to trial, they would have proved beyond a reasonable doubt that Pardlow knowingly, voluntarily, and without legal justification by force and violence stole a motor vehicle. The prosecution said Pardlow put a gun to the victim’s head and threatened to shoot him if he did not comply.

According to court documents, the victim and Pardlow reportedly met in the park for a sexual encounter. Pardlow threatened to shoot the victim while forcing him to surrender his phone. Then, he forced the victim into the passenger seat of his car, at which point Pardlow drove the vehicle to a bank, and withdrew money from the victim’s account.
Parties are slated to reconvene for sentencing on May 29.

Judge Continues Motions Hearing for Fatal Shooting

DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz continued a pretrial motions hearing for a murder case on March 10.

Jaime Macedo, 24, is charged with first-degree felony murder while armed, robbery while armed, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 25-year-old Maxwell Emerson. The incident occurred on the 600 block of Alumni Lane, NE on July 5, 2023.

The hearing opened with Judge Kravitz’s ruling on the defense’s motion to preclude a witness’ testimony.

The prosecutors wanted to call Emerson’s parents to testify before the jurors about Emerson’s life and his background as a teacher and a wrestling coach. However, the defense argued that testimony from both parents on the victim’s character would be duplicative and unnecessary.

Judge Kravitz said it was unfair to have two grieving parents on the witness stand, creating prejudice towards the defense.

The judge partially granted the motion, stating he would not let the father testify, because his would be duplicative to the mother’s testimony. Instead, Judge Kravitz would allow prosecutors to ask the mother questions that they would have asked the father.

According to court documents, security footage shows Macedo and Emerson allegedly walking together towards a park bench. Macedo is seen taking Emerson’s bookbag before returning it. Emerson then texted a family member he was being robbed at gunpoint. Macedo reportedly tried to snatch something else from Emerson, which resulted in Emerson tackling Macedo to the ground. It was at this point that Macedo allegedly shot Emerson in the abdomen before witnesses saw him flee the scene.

Judge Kravitz also brought up the prosecution’s motion to preclude the argument for self-defense, which was filed on Feb. 20, 2026.

Prosecutors stated that if the incident is brought to the jurors attention as an armed robbery turned murder, then Macedo’s defense attorneys, Jessica Willis and Rachel Cicurel, could not argue self-defense.

Judge Kravitz denied the motion to preclude self-defense out of concern for prejudice towards the defense.

Willis and Cicurel filed a motion to exclude asking potential jurors questions about their arrest records on Feb. 21, 2026.

Willis objected to the questioning of being arrested or being a witness to an arrest because it is racially charged. She said that in D.C. Black people are more likely to answer “yes” to the question than Caucasions. She said she believed that it ultimately leads to the prosecution being able to strike more Black people out of jury selection.

“We would want to know,” Judge Kravitz replied, denying the defense’s motion.

The prosecution also filed another motion for a toxicology report on Emerson.

Cicurel and Willis objected, stating that there are a lot of unknowns and that they didn’t have adequate time to ask questions to fully understand the report. Cicurel stated that problem prejudices the defense.

The prosecution stated that a toxicology report was not novel testimony and an investigation into the report could be done with a simple conversation with the toxicologist.

They said that they would help the defense get in touch with the toxicologist and push back his testimony until the end of the trial to give the defense more time to figure out the report.

Judge Kravitz granted the prosecution’s motion without prejudice.

Cicurel and Willis also presented a motion to sever mention of Macedo’s prior convictions from the charges in the current trial. They stated that it would be unfair to their client if the jury knew about his prior felon in possession conviction. However, the judge said that if Macedo were called to testify, the jury would need to know about the prior conviction anyway.

Judge Kravitz granted the defense’s motion in part, agreeing to sever the prior conviction, with the stipulation that if Macedo was called to testify, he would tell the jury about it.

Parties also discussed a motion filed by the defense to dismiss evidence allegedly destroyed by the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). According to the motion, “the government intentionally and deliberately failed to preserve material.”

A former lead detective on the case was questioned about his decision to not classify Emerson’s tablet as evidence.

According to the detective, the glare from the tablet was seen in video footage. This footage took place one minute and 22 seconds before Emerson’s mother received a text message from her son that he was being robbed at gunpoint.

Judge Kravitz did not rule on the motion to dismiss the evidence during the hearing.

Parties are slated to reconvene on March 12 to resume motions.

Jury Delivers Mixed Verdict in Non-Fatal Shooting Trial

A jury delivered a mixed verdict in a non-fatal shooting case before DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt on March 11.

Derrick Gladden, 55, was originally charged with assault with intent to kill while armed, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction, and unlawful possession of ammunition for his involvement in a shooting on the 2300 block of Marion Barry Avenue, SE on April 15, 2024. The victim sustained a gunshot wound to the shoulder.

Following less than two days of deliberations, jurors found Gladden not guilty of assault with intent to kill while armed and one count of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence.

The jury found Gladden guilty of aggravated assault knowingly while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction, and unlawful possession of ammunition.

Following the verdict, defense attorney Alvin Thomas asked the court to release Gladden to home confinement pending sentencing. Thomas noted that Gladden spent approximately one year incarcerated for this case and wanted to spend time with his mother.

The prosecution opposed the request, arguing that the convictions and Gladden’s prior criminal history raised concerns about community safety.

Judge Brandt denied the request, stating that the statute governing the firearm offense presumes detention after conviction. She said Thomas could file a written motion for release if they wished to revisit the issue.

Sentencing is scheduled for May 15.

Judge Denies Stabbing Defendant’s Request to Dismiss His Attorney

DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz denied a stabbing defendant’s motion to dismiss his defense attorney on March 11.

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.

Judge Kravitz said it was “good” that Holman was present in court today. For at least 12 hearings since the case was opened in December 2023, Holman refused to appear or was classified as a medical scratch, according to court records.

Holman’s attorney, Terrence Austin, informed the court that Holman wished to dismiss him as his defense counsel. Austin said he spoke to his client again, and Holman still wished to proceed with new counsel.

After a conversation with Holman and Austin that was put under seal, Judge Kravitz informed parties that he was not compelled to grant Holman’s motion for new counsel. However, the judge said that there is a possibility that the case could be transferred to another attorney within the Public Defender’s Service (PDS).

Judge Kravitz denied the motion without prejudice, meaning that Austin could refile the motion at a later date.

The judge told Holman that it was in his best interest to “cooperate” and attend his next court date. Holman is currently held at DC Jail.

Parties are slated to reconvene on March 27.

Shooting Defendant Rejects Plea Offer

A shooting defendant rejected a plea offer and trial dates were set in a felony status conference on March 11 before DC Superior Court Judge Jennifer Di Toro.

Derrick Carter, 33, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction greater than one year. These charges stem from Carter’s alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting that occurred on the 1400 block of Canal Street, SW on Dec. 2, 2025. One shot was fired at the victim.

Carter rejected the plea offer extended by the prosecutor, which would require that he plead guilty to robbery and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence. In exchange, prosecutors would have dismissed any greater and remaining charges and agreed to limit their sentencing request to the bottom of the applicable guidelines.

The prosecutor stated that the plea offer would be revoked, but that “didn’t matter” since Carter rejected the plea.

Additionally, Carter’s attorney, Emma Mlyniec, alerted the court that she planned to file a motion regarding the prosecutor’s alleged failure to preserve surveillance footage, and that there was still outstanding evidence she had not received.

The parties are scheduled to reconvene on Aug. 13.

‘God Used Him to Protect Me,’ Victim Says of Carjacker Sentenced to 29 Years

DC Superior Court Judge Andrea Hertzfeld re-opened the 29 year sentence of a carjacking defendant after hearing the victim say the suspect was actually her defender on March 9.

Jerome Israel, 22 pleaded guilty to armed carjacking and two counts of unarmed carjacking in Aug. 2025. He was initially charged with conspiracy, six counts of armed carjacking, six counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, five counts of unauthorized use of a vehicle during a crime of violence, and one count of unauthorized use of a vehicle for his involvement in a carjacking at the intersection of 7th and D Street, SE on Aug. 29, 2022.

Judge Hertzfeld sentenced Israel on March 3, but the victim was not able to give an impact statement since there was confusion about the time of the proceeding and she arrived too late.

“I have forgiven him,” the victim said, asking the judge to show mercy on the defendant.

In her story, the victim told the court how Israel potentially saved a carjacking from turning into a homicide. “Despite what happened, I see the defendant as a protector” and “God, used him to protect me,” she said after describing how Israel stepped between her and the armed perpetrator when she was struggling to unlock and hand over her phone.

“Looking at you now, you were not the one pointing the gun at me,” the victim said. “Thank you for protecting me.”

Israel also read an apology letter for what he did and the people he hurt. He said he regrets his action and understands he cannot undo it.

Judge Hertzfeld re-opened sentencing to consider the victim’s impact statement and Israel’s letter. She will also consider re-sentencing under DC’s Youth Rehabilitation Act (YRA) which gives judges more flexibility about the terms of confinement and expunges the record of the defendant if he satisfies the legal requirements.

Sentencing is scheduled to continue on April 9.

Metrobus Carjacking Defendant Considering a Mental Plea

On March 12, a carjacking defendant, who allegedly attempted to take control of a DC Metrobus and crash it into another bus, alerted DC Superior Court Judge Robert Salerno she intends to enter into a plea during a hearing later in March.

Kaprice Steward, 27, is charged with carjacking and unauthorized use of a vehicle in connection to her alleged involvement in a Metrobus carjacking that occurred at 1100 block of Howard Road, SE, Anacostia Metro Station, on Sept. 15, 2025.

Steward’s defense attorney, Lauckland Nicholas, told DC Superior Court Judge Robert Salerno on March 12 that Steward intends to accept a plea offer from the prosecution.

According to court documents, a Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officer responded to a call to investigate a disorderly individual on a Metrobus. The bus operator reported that Steward tried to take over the vehicle’s steering wheel and nearly crashed into an another bus. Steward was reportedly “highly intoxicated.”

“[Steward] stated multiple times that she did not feel safe, expressed suicidal thoughts, and began banging her head against the police cruiser,” court documents indicated. MPD advised that Steward be seen by a psychiatrist.

Judge Salerno transferred Steward’s case to Mental Health Community Court. “Good luck to you there,” the judge said.

Parties are slated to reconvene March 31 in the Mental Health Community Court.

Carjacking Defendant Rejects Second Plea Offer

A carjacking defendant facing multiple charges in five incidents rejected another plea offer before DC Superior Court Judith Pipe on March 11.

Kwesi Pyne, 20, is charged with assault with intent to commit robbery while armed, armed carjacking, six counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, two counts of carrying a pistol without license, possession of unregistered firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition, five counts of robbery while armed, first-degree theft, second-degree theft, destruction of property less than $1,000, unlawful entry of a vehicle, unauthorized use of a vehicle during a crime of violence, and misdemeanor receiving stolen property for his alleged involvement in multiple carjackings.

Pyne is accused in the following incidents:

Armed carjacking at the 900 block of Randolph Street, NW on Oct. 30, 2023
Assault with intent to rob at the 3100 block of Mount Pleasant Street, NW Feb. 7, 2024
Armed robbery at the 3600 block of 16 Street, NW on Feb. 7, 2024
Theft from auto with gun stolen on Feb. 10, 2024
Armed robbery at the 3200 block of Mount Pleasant Street, NW on Feb. 12, 2024

According to the prosecution, if Pyne pleaded guilty to two counts of armed robbery, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, lesser charges of assault with intent to commit robbery while armed, robbery while armed, and carrying a pistol without license, they would drop all remaining charges. The prosecution would also drop a separate case and not seek further indictments.

Pyne rejected the offer. He also rejected a plea offer on April 23, 2025.

Pyne’s attorney Bryan Bookhard noted he filed a motion on Sept. 22, 2025 to separate some of the charges for disposition in different trials.

Judge Pipe responded they will discuss the motion at the next hearing, which is scheduled for March 27.

Judge Delays Stabbing Defendant’s Sentencing

DC Superior Court Judge Andrea Hertzfeld appointed a new defense attorney for a stabbing defendant awaiting sentencing during a hearing on March 11.

Tara Bellinger, 40, pleaded guilty on March 5 to assault with a dangerous weapon and misdemeanor assault on law enforcement for her involvement in a stabbing on the unit block of Forrester Street, SW on Feb. 10.

During the hearing, Bellinger informed Judge Hertzfeld that her uncle recently passed away and she has been going through a hard time.

“My head isn’t in this space,” Bellinger said. She explained she was unable to visit him before he passed away due to her incarceration.

According to Bellinger’s attorney, Louis Kamara, his motion to withdraw filed on May 12, since their relationship was deteriorating causing a breakdown in communication.

Judge Hertzfeld asked Kamara to transfer his case materials to the new appointed attorney.

As a result of the new developments Judge Herzfeld paused Bellinger’s sentencing.

“It sounds like you are going through a lot so let’s schedule for next week,” Judge Hertzfeld said.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on March 18 for Bellinger to receive new counsel.

Judge Issues Bench Warrant for Stabbing Defendant Gone Missing

DC Superior Court Judge Jennifer Di Toro issued a bench warrant for a stabbing defendant whose attorney said he lost contact with in a status hearing on March 11.

Billy Williams, 69, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon, assault with significant bodily injury, threatening to kidnap or injure a person while armed, and aggressive panhandling for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal stabbing on Dec. 7, 2023 at the intersection of Rock Creek Parkway and Virginia Avenue, NW.

Williams was not present for the hearing, and his defense attorney, Henry Escoto, told the court he was unable to get ahold of him that morning.

Escoto requested a delay until the end of the day, but Judge Di Toro stated her intention to move forward with a bench warrant.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene June 5.

Fork Stabbing Defendant Waives Right to Test DNA

A defendant accused of stabbing a victim with a fork waived her right to conduct independent DNA testing before DC Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur on March 12.

Bianca Young, 36, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for her alleged involvement in a domestic violence related stabbing that occurred on the 1600 block of K Street, NE on Dec. 10, 2025. The victim sustained a stab wound to her head from a fork.

At the hearing, prosecutors identified five items found at the incident location that were candidates for DNA testing. The evidence included a silver fork with food residue found on the kitchen floor, blood swabs from the kitchen wall and the entry way floor, size extra large black pants with suspected blood stains found on the kitchen chair, and size medium black pants with suspected blood stains found on the kitchen chair.

Prosecutors have no plan to conduct DNA testing on these items.

Alvin Thomas, Young’s attorney, stated that the defense had no intentions of conducting independent DNA testing of the items at this time.

After confirming that Young understood the rights, Judge Arthur accepted her waiver to independently test DNA evidence.

The parties are scheduled to reconvene on May 26.

‘This is an Obviously Invalid Search Warrant,’ Says Judge Regarding Cell Phone Evidence in a Homicide

DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz granted a homicide defendant’s motion to suppress virtually all data extracted from his cell phone in a motion hearing on March 9. However, he allowed a witness’s description of the suspect over defense objections in other pre-trial legal maneuvers.

Jaime Macedo, 24, is charged with first-degree felony murder while armed, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, unlawful possession of a firearm, and robbery while armed for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of Maxwell Emerson, 25. The incident occurred on the 600 block of Alumni Lane, NE on July 5, 2023.

Judge Kravitz granted Macedo’s motion, filed on Feb. 9, to suppress his cell phone data. He ruled that the search warrant allowing the data extraction was invalid under the Fourth Amendment banning unreasonable searches and seizures.

Judge Kravitz ruled that the search warrant from the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) was non-specific and “mostly unsupported by probable cause.” He stated officers used the warrant as an “investigative tool,” with immense discretion in their execution.

Judge Kravitz concluded the executing officer’s written request in support of the warrant consisted only boilerplate statements, and didn’t justify the rationale for the search of Macedo’s cell phone. He stated that several categories of the search were “over broad.”

“This is an obviously invalid search warrant,” said Judge Kravitz, and that the warrant “should’ve never been issued.”

In their opposition, the prosecutors argued that DC Superior Court judges have authorized many phone search warrants in the past similar to this case. Prosecutors also argued that the officers’ written request gave probable cause for the search, even if the warrant was invalid.

“I’m not convinced,” said Judge Kravitz in response.

Judge Kravitz stated that any well-trained officer would know that the search was illegal, “notwithstanding the magistrate’s [judge’s] authorization.”

Judge Kravitz ruled only a small fraction of the 19,000 pages of data from the extraction was valid evidence.

Macedo’s attorney, Jessica Willis, filed another motion on Feb. 9 to suppress a witness’ testimony and exclude her identification of Macedo from trial.

Willis argued that the identification was a result of confirmation bias, claiming that the witness only became confident in her identification after conferring with her romantic partner and calling in a tip to an MPD officer. According to Willis, the critical photo the MPD officer showed her was “clearly a mugshot”–a proposition the prosecution disputed.

Willis also argued that the witness’ testimony should be suppressed on the grounds that it was unreliable, claiming MPD’s information on the wanted and reward flyer was unduly suggestive of Macedo.

The prosecution countered the witness was “never unsure” of whom she saw.

Judge Kravitz stated that there was no undue bias in MPD’s flyers, and there were no constitutional issues challenging the fairness of the identification.

He indicated he would deny both of the defense’s motions to suppress the witness’ testimony and exclude her identification of Macedo.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on March 10 to continue discussing motions.

Prosecutor Calls Shooting Self-Defense Claim ‘Concocted’ During Closing Arguments

Parties disputed whether a shooting occurred in self-defense during closing arguments in trial before DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt on March 10.

Derrick Gladden, 55, is charged with assault with intent to kill while armed, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, unlawful possession of a firearm, and unlawful possession of ammunition for his alleged involvement in an April 15, 2024 non-fatal shooting on the 2300 block of Marion Barry Avenue, SE. One victim sustained a gunshot wound.

In his closing argument, defense attorney Alvin Thomas said Gladden acted in self-defense. Thomas described the incident as a conversation that quickly turned to a shooting after Gladden was allegedly punched by the victim and saw him brandish a knife.

In contrast, the prosecution said that Gladden’s testimony and claim of self-defense were part of a “concocted” story formulated in response to witness statements and evidence presented against him.

“You don’t get to just come in here and make up a story about self-defense,” the prosecution said.

“You know what happened on April 15, 2024 and you know it’s not what [Gladden] told you happened,” prosecutors told the jury.

Prosecutors explained that no knife was recovered from the crime scene nor the victim, referencing body-worn camera footage that showed a responding Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officer searching the victim’s pockets.

“If anyone had a right to claim self-defense, it was the victim,” the prosecution added.

According to the prosecution, the incident between the two men arose from a dispute after the victim loaned Gladden a car. Gladden, who knew the victim for many years, paid for tires and a battery during his possession of the car. A witness previously testified that at the time of the incident, Gladden approached the victim and said that he “better give me that money.”

Thomas questioned prosecutors’ narrative, saying it proved that Gladden didn’t have intent to kill the victim.

“A dead man can’t pay,” Thomas said.

The defense also submitted a motion for judgement of acquittal, denied by Judge Brandt.

Parties will reconvene when the jury reaches a verdict.

Minister Remains Detained in Shooting Case

DC Superior Court Judge Robert Hildum denied a release request from a minister in a shooting case on March 10.

Marcellos Harris, 30, is charged with aggravated assault while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting at the 3000 block of Stanton Road, SE on March 6.

According to court documents, the incident reportedly began as a verbal confrontation between Harris and the victim. At this point Harris pulled out his firearm allegedly and fired two shots at the victim. The victim sustained gunshot related injuries to the abdomen and upper leg.

After Harris waived his right to a preliminary hearing, his attorney Frances D’Antuono requested Judge Hildum grant his release.

D’Antuono argued Harris was not a danger to the community because of his profound positive impact on the community. According to D’Antuono, Harris is a minister and leads multiple philanthropic projects including housing programs, food kitchens, homeless assistance, and addiction counseling.

“[Harris] lives a stable, productive and law-abiding life,” said D’Antuono.

The prosecution argued against releasing Harris because of the nature and circumstances of the offense. Additionally, the prosecution said they have strong evidence against Harris, including video footage from the victim’s phone from the incident, body-worn camera footage from responding officers, and statements made by Harris when officers responded to the scene.

According to the prosecutor, Harris said “I messed up, don’t shoot me,” before he was arrested.

“This is a crime of violence with a firearm” said Judge Hildum. He stated the weight of the evidence is strong and “there is not much doubt” in the evidence.

“This is a disturbing incident where the victim could have been killed,” Judge Hildum said before denying Harris’ request for release.

The parties are scheduled to reconvene on April 29.

Judge Releases Shooting, Robbery Defendant on GPS Monitoring

DC Superior Court Judge Carmen McLean released a non-fatal shooting defendant on GPS monitoring on March 11.

McKinley McClain, 19, is charged with assault with intent to commit robbery while armed for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting on the 1600 block of W Street, SE on Dec. 30, 2025.

According to court documents, the victim was allegedly buying shoes from McClain when one among two other suspects pointed a gun at him. The victim attempted to run away, was tackled by one of the suspects, before they allegedly beat the victim and attempted to steal his keys. The victim managed to escape to his car and reported hearing one gunshot behind him as he drove away.

During the hearing, Judge McLean stated that McClain would be released, placing him on GPS monitoring. She also instated a curfew for McClain from 6 p. m. to 7 a. m., to allow him to finish his senior year of high school.

Parties are slated to reconvene on April 28.