Defense Challenges Mental Competency Finding for Fatal Arson Defendant

DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz ordered another mental assessment for a homicide defendant after the defense challenged his competency in an April 3 hearing.

Dayshawn Nolan, 24, is charged with second-degree murder while armed for his alleged involvement in an arson that killed Antoinette Davis at the 400 block of Condon Terrace, SE on July 3, 2022. Davis succumbed to her injuries and died on July 17, 2022.

Nolan’s attorney, Christen Philips, requested a contested competency hearing to refute the Department of Behavioral Health (DBH)’s assessment that declared Nolan to be competent to stand trial Nov. 21, 2025. Philips told Judge Kravitz that the Public Defender Service (PDS) had a third party expert assess Nolan and deemed him incompetent to stand trial.

To stand trial, Nolan must understand the charges against him and be able to assist his attorney in his defense.

“Competency is fluid,” Philips said. “There was about eight months of [Nolan] not being competent.”

The prosecution argued the defense is using competency “almost as a weapon,” possibly pushing back the trial date by continuous competency checks.

Additionally, the prosecution claimed requests sent to Nolan to move the case forward were “widely unanswered.”. The purpose of the present hearing, the prosecution told Judge Kravitz, was to resolve the case in “good faith” effort. “This can’t happen when emails are being ignored,” the prosecution said.

“I appreciate your frustrations,” Judge Kravitz said but “I encourage you to be more thorough. I would discourage you from assuming the worst, people are busy.”

Judge Kravitz ordered another full mental competency assessment from DBH to be done at the DC Jail. According to the judge, DBH was supposed to check Nolan’s competency weekly, however, the defense claimed the check-ins were not occurring. Judge Kravitz agreed to reach out to DBH about the situation.

Parties are slated to reconvene on May 1.

Judge Grants Defense Request For Mental Competency Screening in Stabbing Case

DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz ordered a mental competency screening for a stabbing defendant on April 3.

Corey Bridges, 31, is charged with assault with intent to kill while armed, assault with significant bodily injury while armed, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, threatening to injure or kidnap a person, and assault with a dangerous weapon, tampering with physical evidence for his alleged involvement in the non-fatal stabbing of a victim at 1400 block of Morse Street, NE on June 7, 2025. The victim sustained multiple lacerations to his neck.

In court, Bridges’ attorney, Molly Bunke, asked Judge Kravitz to order a competency screening, an examination of a defendant’s current mental state determining whether they can understand court proceedings enough. To stand trial, Bridges must be able to understand the charges against him and assist his attorneys in his defense.

Judge Kravitz agreed, and ordered Bridges undergo an evaluation with the Department of Behavioral Health (DBH).

Parties are slated to reconvene on April 9.

‘This Whole Case is About Choices,’ Defense Says in Triple-Homicide Closings

Parties presented their closing arguments both focused on the issue of choice in a jury trial for a triple-homicide defendant before DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt on April 2.

Nakita Walker, 46, is charged with three counts of second-degree murder, assault with a dangerous weapon, and fleeing a law enforcement officer. The charges stem from her alleged involvement in a fatal car crash that killed Mohamed Kamara, 43, Jonathan Cabrera Mendez, 23, and Olvin Josue Torres Velasquez, 22, on March 15, 2023 on Rock Creek Parkway, NW.

The prosecution’s closing statement framed the incident as a series of choices made by Walker. Walker chose to drive under the influence, to flee a law enforcement officer, and to drive at an “indefensible” speed, asserted prosecutors.

The prosecution outlined the evidence and witness testimony they presented throughout the trial, including data that Walker was driving at an extremely high speed when she collided with Kamara’s vehicle and video evidence of her vehicle moving at a high speed after she was warned to slow down by a police officer.

Prosecutors directed the jury’s attention to evidence that Walker was under the influence of alcohol during the crash, and asked jurors to consider this in addition to Walker’s speeding.

Walker’s attorney, Albert Amissah, said justice for the victims in this case was equally important as justice for Walker.

“This whole case is about choices,” Amissah said. He claimed that the prosecution called two witnesses to testify whose credibility was questionable because they were both under the influence of substances at the time of the incident. Amissah also noted the prosecution granted one of those witnesses immunity for marijuana possession charges, removing his legal liability for a drug charge. He asked the jury to consider the witness’ immunity might be motivation for him to lie.

Amissah questioned the evidence and witness testimonies brought by the prosecution, including blood samples he claimed were improperly preserved and could have produced inaccurate blood alcohol results. He questioned why prosecutors did not call hospital staff to testify about how Walker appeared in the hospital on the night of the incident.

According to Amissah, a toxicology report showed that Kamara had enough alcohol in his system to be considered under the influence if he drove a commercial vehicle. Kamara was driving a Ride Share on the night of the crash, which would be considered a commercial vehicle.

Amissah claimed that the prosecution did not account for Walker’s injuries in their argument and failed to note that Walker sustained multiple fractures and a lacerated lung as a result of the collision.

In conclusion, Amissah told the jury, “Justice for the victims cannot mean injustice for Walker.”

The prosecution insisted the immunity granted to their witness would not protect him from the consequences of lying in court. They also contested Amissah’s statement about how the prosecution they chose their witnesses, saying that they could only call people present at the scene of the incident, aside from the expert witnesses.

Additionally, the prosecution denied ignoring Walker’s injuries, acknowledging that her injuries were consistent with a car crash. They said that hospital staff and the blood test results from the hospital both indicated that Walker was impaired on the night of the incident, and that none of the evidence related to the blood tests indicated improper preservation.

The prosecution concluded by reminding the jury of the importance of looking at the evidence and the law before making their decision.

Parties will reconvene when the jury reaches a verdict.

Judge Releases Teen Carjacking Defendant With Gunshot Injuries

DC Superior Court Judge Judith Pipe granted release for a teen carjacking defendant with gunshot wounds on March 27.

Kurt Downs, 17, is charged with armed carjacking and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in an incident at the 2700 block of Marrion Barry Avenue, SE on March 8.

Downs is charged under Title 16, which allows prosecutors to try juveniles as adults for certain serious offenses.

According to court documents, Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officers detained Downs after he allegedly matched a lookout description for an armed carjacking. While escorting him to the MPD station, officers said they noticed that Downs limping. Downs reportedly told the police that he recently suffered from gunshot wounds and needed to change his bandages.

At the hearing, Down’s attorney, Quiana Harris, told the court that she needed to step down from the case, for reasons discussed under seal. Instead, Gemma Stevens will represent Down’s going forward.

According to a motion filed by Harris, the Public Defender Service (PDS) represents another defendant in a case in which Downs is the victim. Therefore, Harris withdrew because of a PDS conflict of interests.

In the motion, Harris also mentioned the medical issues Downs was experiencing as a result of several gunshot wounds. Harris requested Down’s release at the hearing.

Judge Pipe said that she was concerned about the lack of medical attention that Downs could receive at the Youth Services Center (YSC) at the Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services (DYRS) for the metal rod in his leg.

The prosecutor said that Down’s injuries did not prevent him from allegedly stealing a victim’s car, so he does not see why it should be a concern now.

However, Judge Pipe was not convinced that the prosecution had strong enough evidence that tied Downs to the incident. The only person that identified Downs from the security footage was a detective who identified him based on his clothing, the prosecutor said.

Judge Pipe placed Downs on home confinement, with the exception of school, medical appointments, and hearings. Any violation of conditions would result in his detainment.

The prosecutor requested that Judge Pipe issue a stay-away order from the victim and the offense location, which was granted.

Judge Pipe noted that the case was improperly filed under Title 16 as an armed carjacking given the circumstances. If the prosecution does not file a proper complaint to a charge permissible under Title 16, Judge Pipe said that she will dismiss the case.

Parties are slated to reconvene on April 28.

Teen Homicide Defendant Remains Compliant With Release Conditions

A 16-year-old homicide defendant demonstrated compliance while on release in a hearing on April 2 before DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan.

Keyonte Johnson, 16, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed for his alleged involvement in a shooting that resulted in the death of 20-year-old Roy Bennett Jr. at the 300 block of Morse Street, NE on Dec. 5, 2025. Bennett sustained seven gunshot wounds to his head, chest, shoulder, and forearm.

Johnson is charged under Title 16, which allows prosecutors to try juveniles as adults for certain serious offenses.

According to a representative from the Pretrial Services Agency (PSA), Johnson reported to orientation and has been in full compliance.

Judge Ryan released Johnson on March 26 in light of his health. According to Johnson’s attorney, Jesse Winograd, Johnson was able to attend several medical appointments and intends to continue receiving treatment.

Winograd also noted Johnson’s wish to return to school. However, Judge Ryan stated his intent to wait until the next hearing, saying he wants to see more compliance.

Before leaving, Judge Ryan said to Johnson “Please keep up the good work. It is very very important you stay compliant.”

The parties are scheduled to reconvene on May 6.

Defendant Waives Insanity Defense in Fatal Beating Case

A defendant charged in a fatal beating, formally waived his right to an insanity defense during a hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park on April 2.

Walter Parker, 49, is charged with first-degree murder of a senior citizen, unlawful discharge of a firearm, unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction, and three counts of destruction of property less than 1,000 dollars for his alleged involvement in the fatal beating of 77-year-old Bernard Williams on the 400 block of M Street, SE, on April 23, 2025. Williams succumbed to his injuries on April 28, 2025.

Parker’s attorney, Howard McEachern, informed Judge Park that he would not proceed with an insanity argument. Judge Park placed Parker under oath to evaluate his competency and understanding of the law regarding insanity defenses.

Judge Park said that an insanity argument would require the defense to prove that, due to mental illness, Parker could not distinguish between right and wrong during the incident.

When asked if Parker wished to raise the insanity defense, Parker replied, “no.” Judge Park, confirmed that the waiver was made knowingly and voluntarily, noting that that the decision can’t be changed later.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on Oct. 15.

Popeyes Stabbing Defendant is Found Mentally Competent

A stabbing defendant was found competent to stand trial before DC Superior Court Judge Carmen McLean on April 1 but remains detained.

Sarita Middleton, 45, is charged with two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon for her alleged involvement in a stabbing at a Popeyes on the 1700 block of Columbia Road, NW on Feb. 11.

During the hearing, Judge McLean stated she received a report from the DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) finding Middleton competent to stand trial. To stand trial a defendant must understand the charges and be able to help in their defense.

Middleton’s attorney, Russell Hairston, requested Judge McLean release Middleton pending trial. Hairston argued that Middleton’s criminal record was minimal, stemming from her mental health issues.

According to Hairston, Middleton is taking medication and is eligible for Specialized Supervision Team (SST) services provided by the Pretrial Services Agency (PSA). SST would provide support for Middleton with getting specialized services and supervision for her mental health.

Judge McLean stated she will not visit the decision to hold Middleton because she has not had enough time to review the previous ruling. She plans to address this matter at the next hearing.

Parties are slated to reconvene on April 24.

Judge Rules to Detain ‘Serial Offender’ in Stabbing and Sex Abuse Case

DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman ruled on April 2 to detain a “serial offender,” a stabbing and sex abuse defendant.

Micheal Louis, 60, is charged with assault with intent to commit first degree sexual abuse while armed in connection to his alleged involvement in stabbing of a victim at the 400 block of Florida Avenue, NE on Oct. 2, 2023. The victim sustained a laceration to her leg.

Louis is also charged with first degree sexual abuse while armed in connection to his alleged involvement in the sexual abuse of another victim while brandishing a knife on Feb. 14, 2023.

According to court documents, the victim reported being intoxicated outside of a bar on Oct. 2, 2023, when Louis approached her and invited her to ride on his scooter to his apartment. When they arrived, Louis allegedly asked her to bend over and picked up a knife when the victim refused. The victim said she fought back and escaped, calling 911, and leaving with a cut on the back of her leg and bites on her hand and shoulder.

In court, Louis waived his right to a preliminary hearing, meaning parties will move forward in the case without presenting evidence for and against probable cause.

Following the waiver, the prosecution argued to keep Louis in jail, calling him a “serial offender.” According to the prosecution, Louis was on supervised release for a 1999 sexual assault case when both the assault and sexual abuse incident occurred. He was released from prison in 2020.

The prosecution noted each incident involved strangers, a continued pattern since his 1999 case. Louis’ alleged actions on supervised release pose him as a danger to the community, asserted prosecutors.

Louis’ attorney, Michelle Stevens, focused on Feb. 14, 2023 sexual abuse case. She said the situation was “not as we say, ‘stranger danger’” and in both cases, the women went into Louis’ home. Additionally, she questioned the reliability of the sexual abuse victim’s account, saying she wanted to “speak carefully about this case,” paused, and “while there is DNA evidence from the first encounter, there is not DNA where one would expect it to be. It’s on the neck.” The sexual abuse case reportedly involves vaginal involvement and forced oral copulation.

Judge Edelman considered the reliability of the accounts, saying the “facts of this case are very complicated,” with one victim having some reliability issues and the other being intoxicated.

“This case is more about danger than it is flight risk,” Judge Edelman said, considering the reasons for detention. According to the prosecution, Louis had failed to report he had changed addresses following a rent issue.

Judge Edelman acknowledged the series of incidents, from the 1999 case, another 1998 assault case in Fairfax, and the two incidents before him. The case is “very serious and disturbing,” Judge Edelman said. He ruled for continued detention.

The parties set a date to discuss negotiations of a plea.

Parties are slated to reconvene on April 24.

Judge Releases Defendant to Home Confinement in 15-Year-Old Shooting Case

DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman released a shooting defendant accused of a 2010 shooting to home confinement after finding he was not a risk to the community on April 3.

Terry Greene, 35, is charged with assault with intent to kill while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in the non-fatal shooting of a man on the 5800 block of Fields Place, NE, on June 17, 2010. The victim suffered multiple gunshot wounds to the body.

Judge Edelman said he received and reviewed records from the Maryland Department of Corrections relating to Greene’s incarceration there. According to Judge Edelman, the records showed no violent conduct or contraband weapons violations.

The prosecutor requested Judge Edelman consider the nature of the offense and not alter Greene’s confinement.

Judge Edelman noted that, while he did find probable cause Greene committed the crime, it has been more than 15 years since the incident. This weakened the assumption that Greene was a risk to the community, Judge Edelman said.

Greene had strong family support at his prior hearings, according to Judge Edelman, and Greene’s family was present in the courtroom.

Judge Edelman granted Greene’s release on home confinement with a GPS monitor to be attached before he left the courthouse. Greene will live with his wife and will only be allowed to leave for medical appointments, meetings with his lawyer, court hearings, or verified employment purposes.

Greene is not allowed to own dangerous weapons, firearms, or simulations, said Judge Edelman.

Judge Edelman told Greene restrictions could be relaxed if he is complaint, but he could be sent back to jail if he violates the conditions of his release.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on July 10.

Pending Global Plea Could Erase Jail Stabbing Case

A jail stabbing defendant received a plea offer in a separate, U.S. District Court case that could dismiss another matter before DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman on April 2.

Cedae Hardy, 21, is charged with assault with intent to kill while armed in connection to his alleged involvement in a stabbing at the DC Jail on the 1900 block of D Street, SE on Oct. 12, 2025. The victim sustained 10 wounds.

Chidi Ogolo, Hardy’s defense attorney, notified the court there is a possible global resolution–a plea that combines the District Court case with the one pending in DC Superior Court–that would terminate the stabbing case. However, Ogolo isn’t aware of the details.

The prosecution informed the defense and Judge Kravitz that the the District Court case is working separately from Ogolo’s. Judge Edelman asked about an approximate timeline for a decision, but the prosecutor couldn’t provide a specific date.

Judge Edelman set another hearing three weeks out to give time for the other case to resolve.

Parties are slated to reconvene on April 20.

Defendant Pleads Not Guilty to Fatally Shooting 3-Year-Old

A homicide defendant pleaded not guilty to 10 indictment charges involving the death of a toddler before DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt in a hearing on April 3.

Charles Rucker, 25, is charged with first-degree murder while armed against a minor, three counts of assault with intent to kill while armed, four counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, tampering with physical evidence, and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of three-year-old Honesty Cheadle, on the 1000 block of 14th Street, SE, on July 5, 2025. Cheadle sustained a gunshot wound to her head and succumbed to her injuries on July 7, 2025.

At the hearing, the court arraigned Rucker reading the indictment charges against him. Rachel Cicurel, Rucker’s defense attorney, pleaded not guilty on his behalf and requested that they receive all evidence relating to the case.

The prosecutors informed parties that almost all evidence for the case have been turned over to the defense, besides the DNA results, which are currently being tested. Once they have the results, they will turn them over.

Parties are slated to reconvene on June 26.

Judge Okays Release of Homicide Defendant for Medical Care

DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park will order the release of a homicide defendant in order for him to receive medical care at MedStar Washington Hospital Center in a hearing April 1.

Desmond Barr, 25, is charged with second-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction greater than one year for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 21-year-old Ambria Farmer on the 3300 block of Fort Dupont Drive, SE, on July 13, 2024. The charges face an aggravating factor of allegedly being committed during Barr’s release for another case.

Barr, not present at the hearing, is currently receiving medical care at Howard University Hospital, according to Hannah Claudio, one of his attorneys.

Claudio and Dominique Winters, Barr’s other defense attorney, drafted a release plan to ensure he is able to receive medical care. Judge Park reviewed their plan before the present hearing.

According to Winters, the defense does not have a way to transport Barr to MedStar Washington Hospital Center. She proposed the Department of Corrections (DOC) transfer Barr before he is released from their custody.

The release plan would require GPS monitoring, and Barr would also have to stay at the treatment facility 24 hours a day, according to Judge Park

Jodi Metz, Chief of the Office of Rehabilitation and Development (ORD) at the Public Defender Service (PDS), said Barr would be eligible for Medicare and Medicaid after his release.

Judge Park said that Barr is facing an “acute medical issue” and has been hospitalized for five-to-six days. He said the proposed release plan seems “appropriate and sensible.”

However, Judge Park said he is “not confident” that home confinement would be appropriate after Barr is released from treatment. He said there are “severe indications of danger in this case.”

Prosecutors said the safety of the community and Barr’s health are equally important. They said the victim’s next of kin agrees with their position and would fear for their safety if Barr was to be released.

Judge Park said the prosecutor’s strength of evidence has increased and said the plan is “efficient” to ensure the safety of the community at “this specific time.”

Judge Park set a bond review hearing for April 14 to discuss Barr’s release status.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on April 3.

Case Acquitted: Judge Denies Shooting Defendant’s Request For Dismissal Despite Rouge Witness

Editor’s Note: Marquis Allen was acquitted of all charges by a jury on April 9, 2026.

DC Superior Court Judge Carmen McLean denied the defense’s request to dismiss a shooting case after claims the prosecution is making insufficient efforts to bring their witness to court on April 1.

Marquis Allen, 32, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon, possession of firearm during crime of violence, threats to kidnap or injure a person, and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction greater than a year for his alleged involvement in a shooting that occurred on Aug. 19, 2025 at the 3500 block of East Capitol Street, SE.

During the hearing, the prosecution mentioned that their witness agreed to appear for the trial, but was not present in court.

Allen’s defense attorney, Shawn Sukumar, argued that the prosecution has been making insufficient efforts to bring the witness in and is not prepared for trial. Sukumar requested Judge McLean dismiss the case.

Judge McLean denied Sukumar’s request for dismissal and said that the prosecution is making reasonable efforts to communicate with the witness. The judge cited text messages where the witness stated that she would come into court and that she received the subpoena through an email.

Judge McLean told the parties that the US Marshals will try to find the witness and bring her in court to testify. The prosecutors notified their intent to submit a material witness form, a warrant for the arrest of a witness to secure their testimony, which Judge McLean said she will approve.

Parties are set to reconvene on April 2.

Scissors Stabbing Defendant Rejects Plea Offer Before Trial

A stabbing defendant rejected a plea offer and parties selected a jury before DC Superior Court Judge Robert Salerno on April 1.

Stephanie Fawbush, 51, is charged with two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon and threatening to kidnap or injure a person. All charges originally faced an aggravating circumstance of the victim being a Metro Transit officer and a station manager. The charges stem from her alleged involvement in a stabbing that occurred on the 900 block of 17th Street, NW on Aug. 14, 2023.

According to court documents, Fawbush reportedly approached the female victim, arguing with her unprovoked. A fight broke out, Fawbush then pulled a pair of scissors out of her bag and allegedly tried to stab the female victim. The male victim intervened and Fawbush allegedly stabbed him in the arm.

During the hearing, the prosecution stated that they sent a new plea offer to the defense, which Fawbush rejected over email. The plea offer would’ve had Fawbush plead guilty to two counts of simple assault, misdemeanor threats, and possession of a prohibited weapon. If Fawbush accepted, the prosecution would have dismissed the other charges.

Judge Salerno clarified that the plea offer the prosecution extended would convict Fawbush on misdemeanor charges. He warned her that, if she were convicted at trial, she would face felony charges. Fawbush told Judge Salerno she understood and still rejected the plea offer.

Fawbush’s attorney, Tammy Thom, stated that she filed a motion on March 26 to dismiss the charge of threatening to kidnap or injure a person committed against a transit operator. According to the motion, T an enhancement was not applicable because the charge of threats is not a crime of violence.

Judge Salerno agreed, dismissing the enhancement on the charge of threatening to kidnap or injure a person.

After Fawbush rejected the plea, parties selected a jury for her trial.

Parties are slated to reconvene on April 2.

Judge Amends Teen Carjacking Defendant’s Release Conditions

DC Superior Court Judge Carmen McLean granted a carjacking defendant’s request to relax his release conditions to a curfew allowing time for work and school on April 1.

Kavon Johnson, 19, is charged with unarmed carjacking and assault with intent to commit robbery, both committed against a transportation provider, strangulation, and threatening to kidnap or injure a person for his alleged involvement in a carjacking on Dec. 13, 2025 on the 4600 block of Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SW.

According to court documents, a physical altercation started between Johnson and the driver in an Uber vehicle. Johnson allegedly pulled on the victim’s shirt, disrupting normal breathing and blood circulation, before taking the victim out of the car and striking him in the head. Then, Johnson allegedly entered the victim’s vehicle and threatened him for his keys.

The victim sustained a fractured collarbone, skull injuries, and visible abrasions to the side of the neck from the incident.

According to Janai Reed, Johnson’s attorney, Johnson is currently released on home confinement with GPS monitoring. A representative from Pretrial Services Agency (PSA), reported that Johnson was in full compliance with his release conditions.

Reed requested Judge McLean to amend Johsnon’s release conditions to a curfew, so Johnson can work again and continue school. She expressed that prior to the incident, Johnson nearly completed high school and was employed at Amazon. Johnson didn’t work at Amazon during normal curfew hours, he started work at 1:20 a. m., according to Reed.

The prosecution did not object to the defense’s request, but they requested Johnson pre-approve leaving his house with PSA, which Judge McLean agreed to.

“[Johnson] has potential to resume work and resume school,” said Judge McLean.

As a result, Judge McLean stated Johnson will remain in home confinement until he pre-approves his work and school with PSA.

Parties are slated to reconvene on May 28.

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