‘I Want You to Burn in Hell,’ Says Victim’s Grandmother at Sentencing

DC Superior Court Judge Robert Okun sentenced Quanisha Ramsuer to 36 months in prison on March 28 for obstruction of justice in a murder case.

Ramsuer, 31 was convicted of obstruction of justice for a mass shooting on July 16, 2018, on the 5300 block of 53rd Street, NE. The incident in the Clay Terrace neighborhood left ten-year-old Makiyah Wilson dead and four other individuals with non-fatal gunshot wounds.

Wilson’s mother spoke to the court via Zoom, urging Judge Okun to sentence Ramsuer harshly.

“I have one kid who is in heaven and another who is a survivor,” she said. “Everyone must be accountable for their actions.”

Wilson’s grandmother also spoke in court, stating that what Ramseur did was a disgrace to all women and that obstructing justice was an evil act.

“I want you to burn in hell!” Wilson’s grandmother said to Ramsuer. She told Judge Okun, “Your honor, throw the whole goddamn kitchen sink at her.”

Darryl Daniels, Ramsuer’s attorney, asked the court to depart from the sentencing guidelines and sentence Ramsuer to probation and community service without prison time. Daniels argued that having a felony on her record was a harsh punishment in itself, and that prison would ruin not only Ramsuer’s life but also her family’s.

Ramseur told the court that she had no intention of causing harm to Wilson or her family. She said prison would be very bad for her, as she has to take care of her children, her siblings, and her mother.

Expressing his condolences to Wilson’s family and all the other victims, Judge Okun delivered a sentence of 60 months of imprisonment with 24 months suspended, followed by five years of probation.

“I am not saying you are a bad mother or a bad person,” Judge Okun told Ramsuer. “What I am saying is you made a very bad mistake.”

No further dates were set.

‘My Life Has Been Turned Upside Down,’ Stabbing Victim Says at Sentencing

DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park sentenced a stabbing defendant on March 28 to ten years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release.

Ray Stover, 45, was charged with assault with intent to kill for his involvement in a non-fatal stabbing that occurred on June 5, 2024, at the 1100 block of 45th Street, NE. He pleaded guilty on Feb. 4.

The victim of the incident gave a victim impact statement highlighting how the incident has affected his quality of life and has led sleeplessness and PTSD.

“My life has been turned upside down,” the victim said.

He told the court that he was doing his school job monitoring an entrance and exit when a complete stranger approached him and chased him with a knife before stabbing him.

“Get some help, because there is something desperately wrong with someone who can do that to a complete stranger,” the victim said to Stover.

The prosecution shared surveillance footage of Stover chasing the victim before stabbing him. They also presented photos of the stab wounds and the shirt the victim was wearing.

The prosecution called this incident a “serious, heinous, and random” attack, as Stover perpetrated it on a victim he didn’t know. They also said that Stover has an extensive violent criminal record, including shooting his stepfather, and that probation has not succeeded

Stover’s defense attorney, Quo Mieko Judkins, argued that Stover’s violent behavior is connected to substance abuse and mental illness. She told the court that Stover experienced abandonment and abuse during his childhood. Furthermore, he was a victim of a robbery during which he sustained six gunshot wounds. Judkins requested that Stover be placed in RDAP, a substance abuse treatment program run by the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP).

Judge Park acknowledged that Stover suffered a difficult childhood and has taken responsibility for his actions. However, he said that an unprovoked assault on someone doing their job warrants incarceration. Stover was sentenced to 120 months of incarceration and three years of supervised release.

No further dates were set.

Defendant Pleads Guilty to Shooting Victim

A shooting defendant pleaded guilty to two charges before DC Superior Court Judge Jennifer Di Toro on March 31.

Daniel Griffin, 31, was initially 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 for his involvement in a non-fatal shooting on May 27, 2024 on the 4300 block of Burroughs Ave, NE. The incident left one victim injured.

Griffin’s attorney, Mark Rollins, shared with the court that Griffin would be entering a plea.

After reviewing the deal, Griffin pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon and unlawful possession of a firearm, with the possession of a firearm during a crime of violence charged dropped. In exchange, the prosecution agreed to not seek an indictment, and stated they’ll limit their sentencing requests to 60 months of incarceration.

Parties are slated to reconvene on June 12.

Prosecution Suggests Revenge Was Motive in Foster Sister’s Murder

A friend’s murder may have triggered a revenge killing according to evidence in a murder case argued before DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park on March 28.

Michael Wells, 53, is charged with first-degree murder while armed, second-degree murder while armed, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, tampering with physical evidence, and arson. The charges stem from his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 23-year-old Makia Mosby on Nov. 24, 2005, on the 1200 block of Valley Avenue, SE.

A detective from the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) told Hannah Claudio, one of Wells’ attorneys, that a witness disclosed that Wells is Mosby’s foster brother. The detective said the witness heard Wells’ voice in the background of a phone call with Mosby on the day of the incident. The witness believed the case was connected to the murder of Michael Carter.

During the prosecution’s cross examination, the detective said that Wells and Carter were friends and that Wells might have killed Mosby after she allegedly confessed to murdering Carter. According to the detective, Mosby and Carter were killed in the same fashion.

The detective testified that a second witness claimed Wells confessed to Mosby’s murder. This witness also believed that the case was related to another homicide case and claimed Mosby was “in” on the other case.

Molly Bunke, another attorney for Wells, challenged the witnesses’ reliability saying Wells was incarcerated when the witness claimed the confession occurred in the community.

The detective said a third witness was allegedly at the apartment on the day of the incident and told MPD that Mosby was there, arguing with a man.

Bunke said the witness statements were uncorroborated and plagued by inconsistencies.

She argued Wells should be released pending trial because the prosecution allowed him to remain in the community for over a decade before bringing charges against him, despite already knowing most of the information in the case. According to Bunke, the prosecution’s inaction demonstrated Wells didn’t pose a risk to the community.

Arguments over Wells’ detention will continue at the next hearing, which is scheduled for April 2.

Prosecution Can Use Gun Evidence in Murder Trial

DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park ruled prosecutors can use a recovered gun as evidence as in a homicide case but didn’t preclude a possible self-defense claim on March 28.

Ranje Reynolds, 27, is charged with first-degree murder while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 27-year-old Tarek Boothe on Jan. 31, 2022, on the 3200 block of M Street, NW.

Initially, the prosecution wanted to preclude self-defense as an argument. Judge Park didn’t rule on the issue saying it was inappropriate before trial.

The prosecution also filed a motion to admit evidence Reynolds was a flight risk in that he canceled a romantic trip to leave for Jamaica. Judge Park granted the motion.

Finally, the prosecution motioned to admit evidence of a prior altercation and recovery of a gun.

Reynolds’ defense attorney, Cheryl Stein, didn’t dispute the prior altercation but challenged introducing a gun since there’s no indication it was used in the crime.

The prosecution said that a witness saw Reynolds grab a gun and use it on many occasions.

Judge Park granted the motion, saying the color and shape of the gun described by the witness formed a reasonable basis for inferring it was Reynolds’ gun.

Stein objected to the prosecution’s intention to introduce testimony that Reynolds was seen with guns on other occasions, arguing that gun ownership is completely irrelevant, She said it’s an attempt to impugn Reynolds’ character.

However, Judge Park said that Reynold’s gun ownership is important to the prosecution’s case, as it indicates Reynolds knew where the gun was and suggested Boothe’s killing could have been premeditated.

The defense filed a motion to exclude the prosecution’s second round of testing of DNA evidence.

According to Stein, the lab that conducted the prosecution’s first round of testing failed to report the results for two months. When the results finally became available, the defense asked for the trial to be delayed so they would have time to conduct independent testing.

The prosecution used this delay to conduct a second round of testing.

Stein argued that the slow reporting by the prosecution’s lab violated Reynolds’ constitutional rights by forcing him to choose between his right to independent DNA testing and his right to a speedy trial. She said the prosecution should not be allowed to benefit from this situation by pursuing further testing.

Judge Park denied the motion, reasoning that there was no basis to exclude the test results and no case law requiring the prosecution to cease their investigation.

Parties are expected to reconvene on April 14.

Accused of Shooting Victim 17 Times, Suspect Pleads Innocent

A shooting defendant facing five charges pleaded not guilty to all counts in front of DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt on March 28.

Marcus Martin, 28, 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, and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction. The charges stem from his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting on the 4200 block of East Capitol Street, NE, on Jan. 11, 2024, where one person was injured.

During the hearing, Martin’s attorney, Quo Judkins, stated her client’s decision to plead not guilty. Judkins stated that the defense intends to prepare for the July 7 trial date, but Judge Brandt asserted that this trial date is subject to change due to the court’s busy schedule.

The prosecution also disclosed all items eligible for testing which include two apparent projectiles and five shell casings recovered at the scene that both parties plan on testing.

Parties are slated to reconvene on April 22.

Stabbing Defendant Pleads Not Guilty at Arraignment

A stabbing defendant pleaded not guilty in front of DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt on March 28.

Maurice Felder, 53, is charged with assault with intent to kill while armed, aggravated assault with a grave risk while armed, assault with significant bodily injury, possession of a prohibited weapon, and assault with a dangerous weapon for his alleged involvement in a stabbing incident on the 1900 block of 7th Street, NW on Nov. 10. One person sustained a stab wound to his chest.

According to court documents, the altercation came after a verbal argument between the victim and Felder.

During the hearing, Felder’s attorney, Matthew Rist, stated his decision to plead not guilty on all counts and exercise his right to a speedy trial. According to the defense, the trial should not take longer than three-to-four days.

Parties are slated to reconvene on April 11.

Murder Defendant Thinks He’s, ‘Above The Law,’ Say Prosecutors

‘The prosecution described the defendant in a murder trial as someone who “made a choice, and believes he is above the law” in closings before DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan on March 27.

Deonte Patterson, 29, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and obstructing justice by influencing or delaying of a witness or officer for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 32-year-old Ali Jamil Al-Mahdi on Aug. 23, 2021, on the 1800 block of 9th Street NW.

During their closing arguments, the prosecution pointed to Patterson’s decision to flee the area after the shooting, the use of a fellow inmate’s account to make a jail call allegedly instructing his girlfriend to lie to officials, and testimony from multiple witnesses that placed Patterson at the scene with a gun.

They also emphasized that there were no mitigating circumstances for Patterson’s actions, and stated “any danger he might have been in came after he started firing.”

In her closing, Cheryl Stein, Patterson’s defense attorney, argued that the prosecution was saturating their evidence with photos and DNA analysis in order to hide the fact that they cannot prove Patterson was the first one to shoot.

Stein also stated that Al-Mahdi was drunk at the time, and Patterson was scared because he “knows how he can act [under the influence]”.

In their rebuttal, the prosecution argued that the defense’s theory of the case was purely speculative, and the evidence clearly pointed to premeditated murder.

Parties are set to return once the jury reaches a verdict.

‘My Life Has Never Been the Same,’ Homicide Victim’s Mother Says at Sentencing

A homicide defendant was sentenced to 124 months by DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park on March 28 after an emotional statement by the victim’s mother.

On Jan. 22, Dohn Harmon, 26, pleaded guilty under a deal with prosecutors to voluntary manslaughter while armed for his involvement in the fatal shooting of 18-year-old Kevin Goggins on the 1800 block of Q Street, SE on July 1, 2020.

According to court documents, Harmon participated in the murder as the driver of a stolen vehicle.

Goggins’ mother gave a victim impact statement to the court emphasizing the kind and protective person Goggins was and explaining how his death has affected her.

“I just wanted him to understand what he did, the damage he’s done, the hearts he’s broke,” Goggins’ mother said. “My life has never been the same since that day.”

The prosecution acknowledged that Harmon has shown remorse, does not have a criminal record, has been compliant with release conditions, and has significant family support. They said that there is a lot that makes the prosecution hopeful that Harmon will not engage in violence once he’s released.

However, the prosecution feared that Harmon may return to the same environment and influences that put him in this situation. Furthermore, Harmon has not completed his education nor does he have steady employment, according to the prosecution.

Finally, the prosecution emphasized that the sentence must be proportionate to the seriousness of the offense and its impact on the community. They argued that the offense couldn’t have taken place without Harmon, as he was the driver, and many more people could have been harmed.

Harmon’s defense attorney, Megan Allburn, said that, in many ways, the defense is in agreement with the prosecution.

Allburn requested a sentence under the Youth Rehabilitation Act (YRA) which would seal Harmon’s case if he completed all sentencing requirements successfully.

She highlighted Harmon’s lack of education arguing that he’s just being “passed along,” which has led to major learning gaps. Allburn said he is excited about getting tutoring and other possible opportunities.

Allburn also mentioned Harmon’s good behavior on home confinement and jail, which she argued illustrates his ability to conform to behavioral norms.

Judge Park added that the prosecution’s sentencing request wasn’t a reflexive one but a result of deliberation over the nuances of the case which is reflected in the plea agreement. As a result, he denied the defense’s request for sentencing under the YRA in favor of the prosecution’s recommendation.

Harmon was sentenced to 124 months of incarceration and five years of supervised release. Judge Park also said he would make a recommendation for rehabilitation programs, including mental health and anger management.

No further dates were set.

Document: MPD Makes Arrests in Columbia Heights Shooting

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) announced the arrest of three individuals following a shooting on March 27 in Columbia Heights. A 17-year-old male was injured and later charged alongside two other juveniles, aged 16 and 17, with various firearm-related offenses. The incident, which occurred in an alley on the 1400 block of Girard Street, Northwest, involved an armed dispute, and firearms were recovered at the scene.

Document: MPD Arrests Suspect in 2023 Armed Carjacking

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) announced the arrest of an 18-year-old male suspect in connection with an armed carjacking that took place on Jun. 17, 2023, in the 100 block of K Street, Southeast. The suspect, who was a juvenile at the time, allegedly brandished a handgun, assaulted the victim, and fled with the vehicle, which has since been recovered. The suspect has been charged with Armed Carjacking (Gun).

Document: MPD Makes Arrest in Northeast Assault

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) announced the arrest of a 13-year-old juvenile female from Hyattsville, MD, in connection with a shooting incident that occurred on March 26 in the 5600 block of East Capitol Street, Northeast. The altercation between the suspect and the victim escalated to gunfire, though the victim was not injured. The juvenile turned herself in and was charged with Assault with a Dangerous Weapon (Gun).

Document: 03.30.25 MPD Investigating Southeast Homicide

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) announced they are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred on March 29 in Southeast D.C. Officers responded to the 3300 block of 10th Place, where they found 18-year-old Jose Walters suffering from a life-threatening gunshot wound. Despite being transported to a hospital, Walters was pronounced deceased. No suspect information is available at this time.

Attorneys Fail to Sever Two Defendants in Gang-Related Homicide Case

Defense attorneys in a homicide case filed an unsuccessful motion to sever two defendants from the complex litigation before DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan on March 31. “According to the third superseding indictment, the five defendants are members of a crew called ‘Get Back Gang,'” according to a 2024 release from the US Attorney’s Office.

Dionzai Parker, 21, and Demarco Robinson, 20, are two of five individuals charged with conspiracy. Parker is also charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed, two counts of possession of firearm during crime of violence, assault with intent to kill while armed, and two counts of carrying a rifle or shotgun (outside home or place of business).a

The charges stem from their alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 32-year-old Clayton Marshall on April 12, 2022, the fatal shooting of 16-year-old Justin Johnson on May 26, 2022, and 37-year-old Brice Djembissi on Feb. 25, 2023. All incidents occurred on the 2200 block of Savannah Terrace, SE

During the hearing, Dionzai Parker’s attorney, Karen Minor, requested he be severed from the rest, arguing that his involvement in the murders for which he is not charged are only group chats in which he did not participate. Additionally, she argued that all these murders are not connected, “Parker is only charged with one murder… this becomes guilt by association.”

Wole Falodun, representing Robinson, adopted Minor’s argument and additionally stated that Robinson is only charged with conspiracy. “The evidence against Demarco mainly consists of appearances of text chat and a rap video, this risks guilt by association… there is no evidence that shows Mr. Robinson participated in any kind of murder or any type of assault,” he told Judge Ryan.

This all stems from Parker’s and Robinson’s alleged involvement in gangs is said to operate in the Henson Ridge Neighborhood.

Judge Ryan stated neither of the arguments made by the defense attorneys get close to proving severance is applicable. Judge Ryan stated, “The evidence the [prosecution] proffers and the overt acts that accompany the grand jury’s indictments are sufficient to keep Mr. Robinson and Mr. Parker in the trial.”

All five defendants are set to reconvene on April 18.

Document: 3.31.25 MPD Homicide Detectives Make Arrest in Southeast Homicide

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) announced the arrest of 37-year-old Cornell Day, who is alleged to have been involved in the fatal shooting of 33-year-old Darius Young on March 13 in Southeast D.C. The incident occurred outdoors in the 5000 block of H Street, Southeast, and Young was pronounced deceased after being transported to a hospital. Day has been charged with First-Degree Murder while Armed.

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