70-Year-Old Accused of Stabbing Waives Prelim, Judge Grants Release

DC Superior Court Judge Robert Hildum granted an assault defendant release after accepting a waiver of her right to a preliminary hearing on July 23.

Shirley Chisholm, 70, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and aggravated assault with a knowingly grave risk, for her alleged involvement in an domestic incident that occurred July 18, on the 2300 block of Good Hope Court, SE. The victim, Chisholm’s boyfriend, sustained a two-inch cut on his head.

At the start of the hearing, Judge Hildum accepted Chisholm’s signed waiver of a preliminary hearing, which would have determined if there was probable cause for the charges against her.

Lola Ziadie, Chisholm’s attorney, asked for release, stating that at 70 years old, Chisholm never had trouble with the law.

“Both Ms. Chisholm and her live-in boyfriend had been drinking,” said Ziadie, arguing that Chisholm reported an assault from her boyfriend as well, although she was the only one arrested.

Ziadie then pointed to Chisholm’s daughter and her son-in-law in the courtroom, and said they “just want their mom to come home.”

“This really is an overcharge,” Ziadie concluded. “My client defended herself.”

“The facts are there was a disagreement,” stated the prosecution, requesting that Chisholm remain held.

The prosecution recognized Chisholm’s lack of criminal history, but stated “the injury is of concern,” and expressed worry about the victim’s safety. The prosecution also remarked that Chisholm had no visible injuries, while acknowledging the allegations of assault.

“These are very serious allegations” against Chisholm, said Judge Hildum.

The judge considered Chisholm’s age, lack of criminal history, and strong support system, and concluded he had “no doubt” that Chisholm would return to court.

Judge Hildum granted Chisholm’s release under specific conditions to ensure both the safety of Chisholm’s community and her return to court. Chisholm must report to the Pretrial Services Agency (PSA) by telephone once every two weeks, allow PSA to perform a substance abuse assessment, and cannot possess a firearm.

In addition, Judge Hildum ordered a stay-away order for Chisholm from the victim. He emphasized that “the order is from the court, not [the victim],” and she will go to jail if she violates the order. Chisholm will be allowed to collect items from the victim’s home with a police escort.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Aug. 20.

Defendant Accused of Box Cutter Stabbing Denied Release

DC Superior Court Judge Robert Hildum denied a stabbing defendant’s release after he waived his right to a preliminary hearing of the evidence against him on July 23.

Harold Jackson, 56, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon, for his alleged involvement in a stabbing that occurred on July 18, on the 3400 block of Connecticut Avenue, NW. The victim sustained a laceration on his arm from a box cutter.

At the start of the hearing, Judge Hildum accepted Jackson’s signed waiver of a preliminary hearing, to formally determine if probable cause existed for the charge against him. Then parties presented arguments regarding release.

Lola Ziadie, Jackson’s attorney, said that on the night of the incident, Jackson had been on a walk with his best friend in his “really nice neighborhood” when he ran into the victim. In arguing self-defense, Ziadie claimed the victim was intoxicated and allegedly “poking [Jackson’s] eyes.”

In response to the self-defense argument, Judge Hildum informed Ziadie that probable cause was previously found for Jackson committing assault with a dangerous weapon, and noted her request for release.

The prosecutor asked for Jackson to remain held. They argued that Jackson attacked the victim after allegedly trying to steal his bag. While the victim could not identify the suspect, multiple eyewitnesses reportedly identified Jackson as the alleged perpetrator, as well as CCTV camera footage of the incident that corroborated the victim’s story. In addition, Jackson was reportedly found in possession of a boxcutter.

The prosecutor augmented his argument with a mention of Jackson’s “dated criminal history,” most recently a probation noncompliance notice filed in 2011 for a 1999 heroin charge.

In addition, Jackson allegedly tested positive for cocaine at the time of his arrest.

“I think the weight of the evidence is strong at this point,” Judge Hildum stated. “For reasons that are unclear, the defendant felt the need to take out a boxcutter and cut the [victim].”

After he considered the case’s evidence and drug and firearm charges throughout Jackson’s criminal history, Judge Hildum found that he could not impose conditions of release that would ensure the safety of the community. The judge granted the prosecution’s request for Jackson to remain held.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Aug. 6.

‘If I Could Take it Back, I Would,’ Fatal Shooting Defendant Tells Victim’s Family at Sentencing

DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz sentenced a homicide defendant to 11 years of imprisonment under the Youth Rehabilitation Act (YRA) on June 24.

Judge Kravitz sentenced Caleb Padilla, 20, to 11 years in prison and five years of supervised release for his involvement in the fatal shooting of 31-year-old Damion Hill on the 1800 block of Benning Road, NE, on Dec. 30, 2024. Hill was shot in the head and neck.

Padilla pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter while armed on April 24, 2025. As part of the plea agreement, parties established that the sentence would be between 10-to-12 years of imprisonment, subject to Judge Kravitz’s approval at sentencing.

At the sentencing, the prosecution argued for a 12-year sentence with no YRA, while Padilla’s attorney, Christen Romero Philips, requested a ten-year sentence and the YRA.

The YRA allows defendants who commit an offense under the age of 25 to have their conviction sealed upon successful completion of requirements. In addition, the judge can sentence defendants below the mandatory minimum guidelines.

Padilla’s sentencing was initially delayed in November 2025 so he could complete high school at the DC Jail.

Philips, Padilla’s social worker, and his education aide attested to Padilla’s success at the DC Jail and his commitment to rehabilitation.

The defense explained that Padilla graduated on July 22, but that was not the only milestone of the day. Padilla was also able to hold his one-year-old daughter for the first time at the ceremony.

The defense also detailed Padilla’s commitment to his classwork. They said he graduated with honors, despite the lack of intervention and services he received as a child growing up in foster care.

Padilla’s social worker chronicled Padilla’s commitment to finding solutions to his mental health struggles, and his expressions of remorse.

Philips emphasized the social worker’s points. “In my time, that is incredibly unique,” she said, “that desire to take accountability.”

“He will live with those consequences, no matter what sentence the court imposes today,” Philips added.

Five members of Hill’s family provided impact statements at the sentencing.

Hill’s mother spoke to Padilla, saying that he’ll eventually be released, but “[her] sentence is lifelong.” In addition, Hill’s mother detailed her mental health challenges since her son’s death.

Hill’s mother described him as a deeply caring family member and said “He didn’t just honor the people in front of him, he inspired them to love.”

Hill was a father of five. Two of his children, a young twin boy and girl, provided statements for the prosecution to read.

“I miss my daddy,” the son’s statement said. “My family doesn’t feel right after he died.”

The prosecution argued that their proposed sentence was appropriate to reflect “the value of Damion’s life” and to protect the community.

“Our community, that’s already plagued by gun violence, deserves better,” the prosecution said.

The prosecution also pointed out Padilla’s juvenile record and expressed concern for recidivism.

Judge Kravitz said he issued a sentence between the parties’ recommendations because he didn’t believe he was in a better position to determine the appropriate time.

“Mr. Padilla has overcome a lot,” Judge Kravitz added. “That is something that he should be proud of.”

Padilla thanked Judge Kravitz for allowing him to finish his education. He also apologized to each member of Hill’s family present in the courtroom.

Addressing the twins, “I know what it’s like to not have a father,” Padilla said. “I know what it’s like to lose somebody.”

“If I could take it back, I would,” Padilla added.

There are no further hearings scheduled in this case.

Bus Stabbing Defendant Found Mentally Competent to Stand Trial

DC Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur found a stabbing defendant mentally competent to proceed in his court case on July 27.

Mercellus Thomas, 24, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for his alleged involvement in a stabbing at a Metrobus stop at the intersection of New Jersey Avenue and H Street, NW on Oct. 6, 2025.

According to court documents, Thomas reportedly believed the victim robbed his associate, an older woman. Thomas then allegedly swung a box cutter at the victim, severing a portion of his right ear. The victim reported that he raised his left hand in a defensive posture, resulting in a laceration to his left hand.

At the hearing, Judge Arthur explained that he reviewed a July 22 report from the Department of Behavioral Health (DBH), which determined that Thomas is mentally competent to stand trial. This means Thomas has the mental capacity to understand the charges against him and assist in his case. Neither Thomas’ attorney, Karen Minor, nor the prosecutor objected to Thomas’ competency finding.

The prosecutor noted that plea negotiations were ongoing but did not specify the terms.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Sept. 22.

Jail Stabbing Defendant Accepts Plea Deal

A defendant accepted a plea deal for a jail stabbing that left the victim with three wounds before DC Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur on July 27.

James Outland, 28, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for his involvement in a stabbing at the DC Jail on Aug. 28, 2025 on the 1900 block of D Street, SE.

At the hearing, Outland accepted a plea deal from prosecutors that required him to plead guilty to the charge against him. Under the plea agreement, the prosecution will not seek sentencing enhancements, or an indictment with greater or additional charges related to the offense.

Outland waived his rights to a trial and to independently test forensic evidence.

Had the case gone to trial, the prosecution stated they would have proven beyond a reasonable doubt that Outland approached the victim and stabbed him with a sharp metal object at the DC Jail. They added that video footage would have shown Outland committing the offense.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Nov. 30 for sentencing.

Defendant Accused of Domestic Shooting Rejects Plea Deal

A domestic shooting defendant rejected the prosecution’s plea offer before DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt on July 28.

Vashon Brunson, 26, 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 his significant other during a domestic dispute on Jan. 24 on the 1500 block of Benning Road, NE. The victim sustained one gunshot wound to her neck and cheek before she reportedly jumped out of a third-floor window to escape.

Brunson’s defense attorney, Alvin Thomas, informed the court that his client would be rejecting a plea deal offered by the prosecution. The deal would have required Brunson to plead guilty to an assault with intent to kill while armed charge that would carry a sentencing guideline of 90-to-180 months in prison. In exchange, the prosecution would not seek an indictment with greater or additional charges.

Thomas also told Judge Brandt that he and Brunson had not yet discussed Innocence Protection Act (IPA) rights and therefore needed more time before an IPA hearing. IPA rights afford all defendants the opportunity to conduct independent testing of forensic evidence against them.

In addition, Thomas requested a bond review hearing in the following weeks while he worked to submit a written motion. Judge Brandt said that she would be willing to hear the motion during a hearing but would also be comfortable reaching a decision through solely reading the document itself. Thomas claimed that “putting a voice to the papers” would make the argument more personal.

Judge Brandt set a bond review hearing for Aug. 25.

Defendant Sentenced to 18 Years for 2019 Fatal Shooting

DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz sentenced a fatal shooting defendant to 18 years imprisonment on July 24.

Tyree Irving, 29, was sentenced for second-degree murder while armed. The charges stem from his involvement in the fatal shooting of 22-year-old Davane Williams on Jan. 15, 2019 on the 1200 block of North Capitol Street, NW. Williams sustained multiple gunshot wounds.

Irving pleaded guilty on Feb. 2. Under the plea agreement, the murder charge was reduced from first-degree, and four other charges were dismissed. The plea agreement also mandated a sentence between 18-and-21 years, subject to Judge Kravitz’s approval at sentencing.

At the sentencing, the prosecution asked for 21 years, while Irving’s defense attorneys, Andrew Ain and Joseph McCoy, requested 18 years.

Judge Kravitz sentenced Irving to 18 years. Irving will be credited for the seven-and-a-half years he’s already served since his arrest, thus he has ten-and-a-half years imprisonment remaining. Irving also faces five years of supervised release after his sentence and must register as a gun offender in DC.

Judge Kravitz said he will recommend that the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BoP) place Irving at a facility that has grief counseling and is as close to DC as possible.

Williams’ father spoke at the sentencing. He appeared remotely, explaining that facing the defendant in-person would’ve been too painful.

“Davane was a caring and respectful young man,” with “a promising future and many goals,” Williams’ father said.

The father requested the “strongest sentence allowed by law.”

The prosecution noted how long ago the murder occurred, and how much has changed since. The case and circumstances may seem like “ancient history,” they said, but urged the court to “individualize” this case and remember that Williams’ death is still fresh for the family.

The prosecution also referenced Irving’s criminal history, and claimed he committed this offense less than 50 days after being released from jail for an unrelated offense. Every crime has been more severe than the last, they contended.

McCoy mentioned that Irving’s family was present in the courtroom. He also explained that Irving has successfully completed various programs in jail, including drug programs and a financial literacy course.

Irving spoke to Williams’ father at the end of the sentencing.

“Hopefully in the future you can forgive me,” Irving said.

There are no further hearings scheduled in this case.

Trial on Hold While Marshals Track Down Key Witness in Fatal Stabbing

The muder trial for defendant Vanessa Bonaparte, 34, was delayed on July 27, after DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz signed an arrest warrant for an eyewitness that prosecuting attorneys have been unable to contact.

Bonaparte is charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed and destruction of property valued at $1,000 or more, in connection to her alleged involvement in the murder of 31-year-old Dwayne Boyd on the 3500 block of East Capitol Street, SE. Boyd sustained two stab wounds to his chest on June 22, 2024, and was pronounced dead when police arrived at the scene.

Parties completed jury selection and were expected to begin opening arguments, however prosecuting attorneys said they tried and failed multiple times to make contact with a key witness who was set to testify.

According to court documents, the witness was Boyd’s romantic partner and present when he was stabbed.

Judge Kravitz signed a material witness arrest warrant, meaning US Marshals attempt to locate the witness, bring them into court, and hold them until they testify.

Bonaparte’s attorney, Kevann Gardner, indicated if the witness is not located by the following morning, he will file a motion to dismiss the case. Gardner said if the dismissal motion is not granted, he will file a motion to release Bonaparte.

According to court documents, Bonaparte was on release multiple times awaiting trial, most recently on May 5, 2025. However, her release has been revoked multiple times, most recently on May 30, 2025 for alleged failure to comply with drug testing, mental health screenings, GPS tracking, and court appearances.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on July 28.

Defense Argues Sexual Assault Linked to Fatal Shooting, Judge Denies Release

DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan denied a homicide defendant’s request for release at a hearing on July 24.

Jasson Vasquez Pineda, 30, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of Larry Thomas, 27. The incident occurred on Aug. 24, 2023, on the 3600 block of 16th Street, NW.

Vasquez Pineda’s attorney, Camille Wagner, argued for his release and called the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) detective who investigated the incident to testify. The detective presented surveillance footage of events leading up to the incident, which include the suspect, who the detective alleged was Vasquez Pineda, and Thomas, interacting inside and outside of an apartment complex.

The detective confirmed that, in one clip, the suspect is seen running with Thomas “chasing after” him. The detective also established that Vasquez Pineda lived in the apartment and he had no knowledge why Thomas would be there.

In another clip, the suspect can be seen going inside the apartment’s stairwell, and Wagner alleged that he was “pulled back inside” by Thomas. Thomas wraps his arm around the suspect’s neck in the surveillance footage.

Wagner highlighted that a third individual was reportedly present at the scene but was never identified by detectives. According to Wagner, the individual was “limping” and looking over his shoulder while he returned to the apartment from the scene of the incident.

The detective clarified that they looked into the possibility of an alternative suspect but concluded that there were only two people involved.

Wagner highlighted that one witness reportedly told detectives that Vasquez Pineda said Thomas tried to rape him. According to the detective, Thomas’ mom also called the detectives and said she heard rumors about sexual interactions between the two. Wagner asserted that, after the incident, Vasquez Pineda’s behavior was “upset,” and he had bruises on his neck.

The detective confirmed that Thomas did not have on boxers when his body was recovered.

Additionally, the detective established that he had not talked to any witnesses that lived at the apartment and did not speak to any of Vasquez Pineda’s co-workers about the bruising.

Wagner argued that the evidence for first-degree murder is not strong. She asserted that Vasquez Pineda was choked, grabbed, and subjected to “several minutes of assault” from Thomas. She conceded that the case might constitute voluntary manslaughter or imperfect self-defense, but that Thomas was not living in the apartment building and would not leave.

Judge Ryan denied Wagner’s motion for release, and said that the evidence was “pretty clear” about Vasquez Pineda “find[ing] and kill[ing] Thomas.” Judge Ryan said he could not “draw the inferences” that Wagner “wants [him] to draw.”

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on Aug. 21.

Defendant Sentenced to 9 Years After Robbery Offenses on Release and Jail Stabbing

A stabbing and robbery defendant was sentenced during a hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan on July 27.

Rodney Bennett, 20, pleaded guilty on March 23 to assault with a dangerous weapon for his involvement in a non-fatal stabbing on Nov. 10, 2025 at the DC Jail, on the 1900 block of D Street, SE. The victim sustained two stab wounds.

In a separate case, Bennett pleaded guilty to robbery and armed robbery for his involvement in two robberies, one that occurred on Aug. 28, 2024, on the 1300 block of Neal Place, NE. The second occurred on Aug. 29, 2024, on the 1900 block of 8th Street, NW.

The plea deal dismissed 55 of Bennett’s original charges and carried a total sentence range of seven-to-10 years in prison for both cases, subject to Judge Ryan’s approval.

At sentencing, Judge Ryan reiterated the facts in the cases. According to prosecutors, Bennett approached a victim on Aug. 28, 2024 pointed a firearm at him, took his wallet, and fled. A few hours later, on Aug. 29, he pointed a firearm towards two additional victims and took a watch and cash. In his other case, on Nov. 10, 2025, Bennett stabbed the victim repeatedly with a sharp object.

Judge Ryan highlighted that Bennett was formerly charged with carrying a pistol without a license in May 2024 and was sentenced in October 2024. He also established that Bennett is eligible for the Youth Rehabilitation Act (YRA), which allows defendants who commit a crime under the age of 25 to receive sentencing flexibility and the opportunity to have their records sealed upon successful completion of their sentence.

Prosecutors requested 10 total years of imprisonment and opposed the YRA, highlighting the “seriousness of the offenses.” They argued that Bennett committed two armed robberies “in the course of one hour,” with “planned and deliberate” actions. At the time of the robbery, Bennett was on release and GPS monitoring for his carrying a pistol without a license charge.

Prosecutors alleged that “the threat of confinement is not stopping” Bennett, as he committed the stabbing while he was in jail.

Bennett’s attorney, Wole Falodun, requested five years for Bennett’s robbery case, with a consecutive two years for his stabbing case. He acknowledged that “these are very serious charges,” but highlighted that Bennett has “accepted responsibility” and “has strong family support.” Falodun characterized Bennett as “intelligent, warm, kind, [and] respectful.”

Falodun also requested that the court impose the YRA.

Bennett acknowledged his responsibility, saying, “I’ve made mistakes.”

Judge Ryan agreed with implementing the YRA, highlighting that it gives Bennett “something to aim for as a goal.” He sentenced Bennett to seven total years in prison for his robbery charges, as well as two consecutive years for his assault charge.

Bennett will serve a total nine years in prison. Upon his release, Bennett will serve five years of supervised release.

No further dates were set.

Defendant Pleads Not Guilty at Arraignment to Killing Three Victims in Mass Shooting

A homicide defendant pleaded not guilty to all charges, including three counts of first-degree murder, at a hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan on July 24.

Rahsaan Smith, 29, is charged with three counts of first-degree murder while armed with an aggravating factor of more than one offense arising from the incident, assault with intent to kill while armed, four counts possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction.

The charges stem from Smith’s alleged involvement in a shooting that killed 34-year-old Reginald Gilbert, 27-year-old Tymea Cook, and 35-year-old Bernard Hodges, and injured two additional individuals. The incident occurred on Aug. 5, 2023, on the 1600 block of Good Hope Road, SE. Gilbert and Cook sustained single gunshot wounds to the chest and head, and Hodges sustained multiple gunshot wounds.

At the hearing, Smith’s attorney, Lisbeth Sapirstein, entered a plea of not guilty on all counts and invoked Smith’s right to a speedy trial. Sapirstein also consented to standard protective orders.

Prosecutors indicated they may offer a plea deal but are still in preliminary discussions.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on Oct. 23.

Lead Detective Testifies About Victim’s Ordeal in Traffic Shooting Trial

The lead detective in a traffic shooting case described his interactions with the victim and analyzed video footage in a continuing trial before DC Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur on July 22.

Marcus Reavenell, 48, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction greater than one year, unlawful discharge of a firearm, reckless driving, and destruction of a property less than $1,000. These charges stem from Reavenell’s alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting that occurred at the intersection of 58th and Foote Streets, NE on May 14, 2025. No injuries were reported.

The prosecution called a Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) detective who reported to the scene of the alleged assault. The detective said he spoke to the victim, who seemed “excited and grateful to have officers” help him.

The victim also provided footage from cameras on his van, which the detective said he used to identify the license plate of the suspect’s vehicle that the victim described as having shot toward his vehicle. In prior testimony, the victim said he had cameras on the front and both sides of his van.

Based on the footage, the detective said that he saw a silver “revolver-style pistol” fired outside of the driver seat window of a white van toward the vehicle directly in front.

The detective said he and other MPD officers scanned the surrounding area for shell casings and knocked on nearby doors asking for any other information to advance the case. While they were unsuccessful in finding any casings or additional witnesses, other officers were able to find the white van unoccupied the day after the incident. The van was towed and brought to an impoundment lot as evidence, according to the detective.

In the white van, the detective allegedly collected an employee handbook, employment application and formal employee grievance form from Reavenell’s then-employer, American Community Services, in the van.

The detective said he then went to Reavenell’s office and interviewed three of his co-workers. First, he showed them a still image from the video footage of the incident and no co-worker immediately identified the suspect. Then, after watching a slowed down video clip, one of the co-workers reportedly told the detective, “I know who it is” and stated it was a person said to be Marcus Reavenell.

According to the detective, he also filed a warrant to search Reavenell’s Instagram account. There he found a message reportedly sent by the defendant that read, “slim, my van got stolen from my job while I was at work.” The Instagram account also showed several videos that included an individual the detective later identified as Reavenell after meeting him in person.

A video displayed by the prosecution from the Instagram account reportedly showed a white van. The detective claimed the tag number and license plate matched the suspect vehicle.

The detective will continue testifying the next day of trial.

The prosecution also called a custodian of records for Meta Platforms Inc. (Meta), the parent company for apps including Instagram, to testify. He explained that Instagram preserves information about users’ accounts and post history in electronic records, which law enforcement may request to access for investigations.

The prosecution approached the witness with a flash drive with several of these records that MPD received from Meta in connection to the case. The records included direct messages sent from an Instagram account associated with an email of Marcus Reavenell.

On cross-examination, Reavenell’s attorney, Michael Bruckheim, clarified with the witness that while Meta’s records reflect what account made a post or sent a message, Instagram cannot keep track of what individual is using an account when something is posted.

Parties are scheduled to resume trial on July 23.

Coauthored by Benjamin Messinger, Nina Raj, Chloe Hockenson, Helena Berhe and Genevieve Geller

Judge Holds Homicide Defendant Despite Absent DNA

DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan denied a homicide defendant’s motion for release at a hearing on July 24.

Juan Adams, 41, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in a shooting that killed 38-year-old Michael Hansley. The shooting occurred on Dec. 2, 2023, the 1700 block of Benning Road, NE. Hansley sustained two gunshot wounds.

Adams’ attorney, Kevin O’Sullivan, argued an oral motion for Adams’ release, citing no DNA evidence placed Adams inside a car that a witness originally reported Adamas occupied. O’Sullivan classified this as a “material change in circumstances.”

According to court documents, the witness stated that they reportedly picked up Adams after the shooting in a silver two-door Mercedes.

O’Sullivan claimed that DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan’s original decision to hold Adams “wasn’t a close call.”

He alleged that this case is “certainly not as strong,” as video footage did not show the face of the shooter and there was no weapon recovered. Although one witness identified Adams as reportedly being in the area, there is no GPS or cell site evidence to corroborate the witness’ statements.

According to O’Sullivan, the “nature and circumstances” of the crime are in favor of detention, but not Adams’ character. O’Sullivan highlighted Adams’ “minimal” prior record, as well as the fact that the shooting occurred in December 2023, and Adams was not detained until October 2024. During that time period, O’Sullivan reported that Adams did not engage in criminal activity.

Judge Ryan said he was not sure that the absence of DNA is significant, given the other evidence from the witness. Judge Ryan denied O’Sullivan’s motion for release.

Parties indicated that there have been preliminary conversations about a plea offer but did not discuss any terms.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on Oct. 2.

Case Acquitted: Prosecutors Play Interview with Domestic Homicide Defendant

Editor’s note: Rayvon Slye was acquitted of all charges by a jury on August 5, 2026.

Prosecutors played footage before DC Superior Court Judge Danya Dayson on July 23 of a fatal stabbing defendant’s interview with detectives from the day of the incident.

Rayvon Slye, 34, is charged with second-degree murder while armed for his alleged involvement in the fatal stabbing of 30-year-old Andrea Bond on March 7, 2023, on the 1100 block of D Street, NE. Bond sustained one stab wound to her chest.

According to court documents and witness testimony, Slye and Bond were in a romantic relationship and had an infant together at the time of the murder. Court documents also allege that the couple was physically violent with each other on multiple occasions.

In court, the prosecution called a Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) homicide detective, who conducted an interview with Slye at the homicide branch on the evening of the incident. The detective testified that at the time of the interview, Slye had not been designated as a suspect nor had Bond’s death been classified as a homicide.

In video footage of the interview, Slye reported that he met up with Bond the night prior to her death in the Trinidad neighborhood. He reported that it appeared Bond had been drinking and she told him she got into a fight with another woman, resulting in an injury.

Slye noted in the video that Bond was wearing a white jacket and a green shirt, both of which had blood on them when he picked her up. He added that later in the evening, he reportedly placed two Band-Aids on Bond’s chest wound.

On cross-examination from Slye’s other attorney, Kevin Mosley, the detective confirmed that when Slye was left alone in the room, video footage captured him saying to himself that he would not have a wife after Bond’s death. The detective also agreed in her testimony that Slye was reportedly the only one to call 911 and the only non-medical personnel to perform CPR on Bond.

The detective described Slye as “cooperative” throughout the interview.

After the detective’s testimony, prosecutors played about 90 minutes of the footage from the same interview of Slye, including portions the jury had already seen. During the interview, Slye claimed to the detectives that he had met up with Bond in the Trinidad neighborhood the day before, and she already had the stab wound.

In the video, Slye claimed to a detective that Bond had started speaking to him at 8:00 a.m., but he could not discern what she said.

After the interview, Slye sat alone, talking to himself about the loss of his loved ones and contemplated if he should “drink [his] life away.” In the video, Slye repeatedly stated “I don’t know what to do.”

At one point, Slye said in the video “I should have just called” 911 immediately after he noticed Bond was stabbed. Slye had told detectives earlier in the video that Bond adamantly told him not to call 911 when he met her in the Trinidad neighborhood.

The prosecution also called Bond’s cousin’s then-girlfriend, an eyewitness, to testify about the events on the night of March 6 through March 7, 2023.

When questioned by prosecutors, the eyewitness claimed that she had met Bond before, but “didn’t know her.” She also alleged that she had never seen the person Bond was dating.

The eyewitness said that she slept at Bond’s home the night prior to her death, then left for a doctor’s appointment the next morning. In contrast to her previous statement, the eyewitness claimed that when she was returning to the home, the person she knew as Bond’s boyfriend was walking toward it.

In addition, the eyewitness stated that she let Bond into the home on the night of March 6, they engaged in a brief conversation, and she saw Bond walking towards the living room.

During questioning from the prosecution, the eyewitness initially claimed that she did not see Bond enter the living room. She confirmed this again during questioning by Slye’s attorney, Kayla Wyatt. However, the eyewitness later stated to the prosecution that she thought Bond went to the couch farthest from the living room’s entrance and grabbed blankets to “lay low” on the couch.

Furthermore, Wyatt pointed out discrepancies in the times certain events occurred in the eyewitness’ story compared to how she described them in her grand jury testimony. In one instance, the eyewitness claimed that she let Bond into the house and spoke with her around 9 p.m. then later agreed this happened around midnight.

Parties are scheduled to continue with Slye’s trial on July 27.

Judge Finds‘Nothing Suggesting Bad Faith,’ Leaving Jury to Decide Shooting Investigation

DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman denied a defense attorney’s request to dismiss a non-fatal shooting case after a reported failure to preserve video evidence at a hearing on July 17.

Guy Johnson, 59, is charged with assault with intent to kill while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting that injured one individual on July 9, 2023, on the 300 block of P Street, SW.

Johnson’s attorney, Kevin Mosley, filed a motion to dismiss the case on Jan. 21, citing the prosecution’s “failure to preserve video evidence.” According to Mosley, CCTV video footage was not preserved by detectives or special police officers (SPOs) at the scene. Instead, the responding detective reportedly recorded four CCTV clips on an iPhone out of the existing 37.

Prosecutors called the lead Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) detective in the case, who testified that he reviewed the iPhone recordings of the CCTV footage and confirmed he had access to all four clips.

When asked by Mosley, the detective said he could not remember if he went to the scene to retrieve the footage and was unaware of how the responding detective retrieved the footage. The detective clarified that he did not take any additional steps to preserve the footage and was certain that it was never obtained by the MPD.

The lead detective asserted that he did not have direct access to the CCTV cameras. The incident occurred at a private apartment complex, so he claimed that he would most likely have had to request it from the apartment’s management.

The lead detective believed he spoke to the private security company to retrieve the footage, but it had already been recorded over.

Mosley confirmed the four recorded iPhone clips do not capture the shooting or anyone holding a firearm. Mosley asserted that all MPD had is “four limited views of a general scene.” The lead detective countered that the footage shows a suspect walking behind the victim.

The lead detective asserted that there are no rules that forbid the responding detectives from recording the footage with another device.

The responding MPD detective, who recorded the footage on his iPhone, testified that he viewed the CCTV camera angles at the security desk. He claimed he recorded what he considered to be potential evidence, and he viewed other footage as well, but could not see the actual shooting. He asserted that if video footage of the shooting existed, he would have recorded it.

In cross-examination, Mosley confirmed the detective did not take any notes of the unrecorded footage at the time of the incident. The detective clarified that he viewed additional camera angles in March 2024 and was unaware if these were available at the time of the incident.

The detective claimed that, once he arrived on the scene, the SPOs were already viewing the footage. He could not recall if the footage he later recorded was shown to him by the SPOs, or if he looked through them all with the SPOs.

Johnson’s other attorney, Charlotte Gilliland, argued MPD was in possession of the footage the night of the incident and able to record and view the footage for as long as they wanted.

When asked by Judge Edelman, Gilliland clarified that neither detective had the right to subpoena the footage, but they were capable of exercising their duties to preserve evidence.

Gilliland presented an email that she claimed indicated the SPOs were working with the prosecution in January 2024.

The prosecution countered that the SPOs were “cooperating witnesses,” not part of their team.

Gilliland requested that Judge Edelman dismiss the case with prejudice, meaning prosecutors cannot file the charges again. In the alternative, she asked for the suppression of video evidence, claiming they are “completely unable” to enhance the footage.

She argued that Johnson is “already facing hurdles” and that the footage could have indicated an alternative suspect, but they have “no way of knowing.”

Prosecutors argued there was a blind spot in the footage. After the reported blind spot, Johnson can allegedly be seen running behind the victim.

Judge Edelman asserted that there was “nothing suggesting bad faith” from prosecutors or intention of harming Johnson. He described the iPhone “partial preservation” as “simple negligence” from MPD.

The judge claimed that prejudice was “plausible but still fairly hypothetical” and not enough to justify Gilliland’s request of dismissal or the suppression of video evidence. He predicted they may be entitled to a missing evidence instruction at trial, but countered that it is “impossible to determine that now.”

Judge Edelman denied the defense’s motion in part, but also held it in abeyance in part. He asserted that prejudice cannot be weighed without knowing relevant context in trial. He will allow Johnson’s attorneys to make arguments about the “shoddy nature” of the investigation at trial.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on Aug. 19.

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