Judge Says, ‘Let’s Just Leave it Where it Is,’ Dismissing Nightclub Stabbing

DC Superior Court Judge Robert Hildum found there wasn’t enough evidence– including questionable identification–to justify a trial in a Nov. 27 preliminary hearing about a nightclub stabbing.

Raymond Price was charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for his alleged involvement in a stabbing that occurred on Nov. 23 on the 1400 block of Okie Street, NE.

During the hearing, the prosecution called a responding officer from the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and the defense introduced an investigator to review the evidence.

According to court documents, Price was identified as the suspect by a witness and the victim after a verbal altercation. Price allegedly had a knife when arrested.

Both parties presented the club’s video footage and the body-worn cameras of other responding officers.

The blurry video evidence included another individual who was involved in the altercation and left the scene very quickly, passing by police and commenting, “They be tripping in there.”

Alternatively, Price allegedly stayed back, checking up on the victim and cooperating with law enforcement in their investigation.

The only witness cited by investigators at the scene identified Price after being repeatedly asked by police, finally giving a response identifying Price’s clothing.

The victim didn’t know he was stabbed until he left the club, later identifying Price by an image presented to him by police stating, “That’s the man that stabbed me.”

Prosecutors argued that there is a low standard to determine probable cause and a “very good argument” to go forward to trial.

Defense attorney Joseph McCoy said Price is the wrong man. Although Price had a knife, there was no blood on it and there’s none in the bathroom where he could’ve washed it off. Two additional eyewitnesses didn’t see a fight or a stabbing.

Judge Hildum explained, “It’s a difficult case” as Price’s knife is the most compelling evidence bug without DNA testing and wound descriptions at this stage, the crime can’t be proven one way or the other.

“I just can’t find probable cause with assault with a dangerous weapon in this case,” Judge Hildum concluded, “Whatever happened that night, let’s just leave it where it is.”

The case was dismissed without prejudice, which allows the prosecution to recharge Price if they uncover more evidence.

No further dates were set.

Document: MPD Searching for Northwest Stabbing Suspect

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) announced they are seeking assistance in locating a suspect involved in a stabbing incident that occurred on Nov 29 on the 2800 block of 15th Street, Northwest. An adult male victim was found with a stab wound and transported to a hospital for treatment. The suspect was captured on nearby cameras, and the MPD is urging anyone with information to come forward.

Document: Statement on Major Crash Involving MPD Member

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) announced a fatal crash involving an MPD member on Nov 30. An unmarked MPD cruiser was struck by a speeding motorized cycle at the intersection of Columbia Road and 13th Street, NW. The cycle operator was pronounced dead despite first aid efforts. The MPD member, not responding to a call or using emergency equipment, is on administrative leave as the incident is investigated.

Document: Updated with Video MPD Investigating East Capitol Street Shooting

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) announced an update regarding a shooting on Nov 22 on the 1700 block of East Capitol Street, SE. A 15-year-old male was injured and sought help at Eastern High School – his injuries are non-life-threatening. MPD is seeking community assistance in identifying the suspects captured on surveillance footage.

Murder, Mass Shooting Trial Postponed For A Pending Case

DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan along with those involved agreed to reschedule an upcoming May 19, 2025 jury trial based on another case in Maryland and a delay in testing, during a Nov. 27 hearing.

Gerald Thomas, 21, is charged with attempted kidnapping while armed, first-degree murder while armed, seven counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, four counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, carrying a pistol without a license and second-degree murder while armed.

Thecharges stem from his alleged involvement in a shooting on the 4400 block of Connecticut Avenue, NW on Jan. 27, 2022 which resulted in the death of 20-year-old Dasha Cleary. Three other individuals were also injured in the incident thus categorizing the event as a mass shooting.

Defense attorney Dominique Winters waived Thomas’ presence since he’s being detained for another shooting matter in Maryland. Winters stated to the best of her knowledge Thomas will accept a plea offer in that that case and will be sentenced soon.

Parties, along with Judge Raffinan, agreed to vacate the upcoming May 2025 trial date so the Maryland case can be resolved. Winters also requested additional time to ensure that all DNA evidence is tested prior to the start of trial.

No new trial date was set, but the calendar be discussed in a status hearing scheduled for February

Parties are set to reconvene Feb. 7.

Shooting Codefendants Reject Plea in High School Shooting

Two shooting defendants rejected a plea deal before DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan on Nov. 27.

Saki Frost, 18, is charged with two counts of assault with intent to commit any other offense while armed, two counts of assault with intent to kill while armed, two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon and six counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence.

Azhari Graves, 18, is charged with two counts of assault with intent to kill while armed, two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon and four counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence.

According to court documents, the codefendants allegedly fired shots at a Chevy Cruze during a shootout. Some of the bullets pierced a classroom window at Dunbar High School striking a female juvenile student in the head who survived injury. The incident occurred on May 3 at the intersection of the 1200 block of Kirby Street NW and the 100 block of N Street NW.

Prosecution offered a wired plea deal, which required both defendants to plead guilty to one count of aggravated assault while armed and one count of carrying a pistol without a license. In exchange, all other charges would be dismissed.

This a\sentencing range stipulated in the plea was eight-to-12 years or 10 years.

Both defendants rejected the plea offer and are set for indictment.

Parties are set to reconvene Feb. 20.

Judge Finds Probable Cause in Fatal Stabbing

DC Superior Court Judge Anthony Epstein found probable cause for second-degree murder in a stabbing case triggered by a fight between the perpetrator and surviving victim. The ruling came in a Nov. 25 hearing.

Shaneka Jackson, 41, is charged with second-degree murder while armed for her alleged involvement in the fatal stabbing of Gray Hall on Sept. 1 on the 900 block of Division Avenue, NE. One additional individual was injured.

The prosecution called an officer to testify about the investigation and video footage of the stabbing.

The video showed an altercation between Jackson and Hall’s girlfriend, Jackson’s boyfriend and Hall then got into a fight. Jackson allegedly grabbed a knife to defend herself, and when the argument escalated, she allegedly stabbed Hall while he was struggling with Jackson’s boyfriend.

Joseph Yarbough, Jackson’s attorney, established that the instigator was Hall’s girlfriend. According to the video footage –which the officer narrated– the girlfriend initially walked towards Jackson with balled up fists before engaging in an altercation.

“Can a person kill another without a weapon?” Yarbough asked the officer. He explained that there was evidence showing that Jackson’s boyfriend was in danger while grappling with Hall and Jackson could have believed he was in danger. Yarbough argued that the charge should be dismissed or should at least be dropped down to voluntary manslaughter.

The prosecution argued that there was no evidence suggesting that Jackson believed her boyfriend to be in danger for his life. He further explained that there was zero evidence that Hall was strangling or trying to kill the boyfriend.

Judge Epstein agreed that while an aggressor was a victim, when people engage in a fight, using deadly force in response is unacceptable. He found probable cause for second-degree murder.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Aug. 8, 2025.

Probable Cause Found, Murder Defendant Remains Detained

DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan found probable cause that a murder defendant remained detained on Nov. 26.

Keondre Carroll, 21, is charged with premeditated murder while armed, five counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, kidnapping while armed, robbery while armed, possession of a large capacity ammunition feeding device, assault with a dangerous weapon, and carrying a pistol without a license outside his home or business. These charges stem from his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 59-year-old Raymond Ballard on Jan. 23 on the 3000 block of Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE.

Two codefendants, Steven Metts, 19, and Jovontae Wallace, 19, are also charged for their alleged involvement in the same matter.

According to a press statement from the United States Attorney’s Office, Carroll, along with the two codefendants a got in a vehicle on Jan. 23, and drove by the crime scene firing 29 shots, killing Ballard.

According to the release, on Jan 24, Carroll and the two codefendants allegedly attempted to rob an individual of his jacket. After the victim fled onto a Metro bus, Carroll and the two codefendants followed the bus and blocked it at an intersection. Two of the three boarded the bus with their firearms ostensibly to track the victim down to take his jacket. After stealing the jacket, they fired at the bus while driving away.

During the hearing, Carroll’s defense counsel, Gemma Stevens, filed a motion for release from pretrial confinement.

Stevens argued that the prosecution had not established probable cause because she is not legally permitted in the grand jury proceedings where he was indicted, thus could not gauge the accuracy of the evidence.

Stevens also stated in her motion that, if the court finds probable cause Carroll is neither a danger to the community nor a flight risk. According to Stevens, his mother lives in DC, he has three kids, and he hopes to be employed, mentioning his past stint at a Target warehouse.

Further, she stated that he has only ever been convicted of carrying a pistol without a license and unlawful possession of ammunition, both of which, according to her, are nonviolent crimes.

The prosecution disagreed with the defense’s motion, requesting Judge Raffinan to keep him detained.

She argued that the grand jury found probable cause, and the fact that the defense counsel was not there does not undermine the process. Additionally, the defendant admitted his involvement in another criminal matter — the facts of the case were not disclosed.

Judge Raffinan agreed with the prosecution, stating that she found probable cause for the case to go forward. She ordered Carroll remain detained, citing the nature of the crime, the gravity of the circumstances, and his multiple other criminal proceedings. Parties will reconvene on April 25, 2025.

Argument With Neighbor Leads to Gunfire, Judge Finds Probable Cause

DC Superior Court Judge Marisa Demeo found probable cause in a domestic squabble and rejected the release of a shooting defendant during his Nov. 26 preliminary hearing.

Dontrell Harrison, 47, 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 a shooting on April 17, 2023, on the 2100 block of I Street, SE. One individual sustained four gunshot wounds.

According to court documents, Harrison allegedly got into a verbal altercation with a neighbor, which led to Harrison shooting the victim in the face, chest, and arm. Harrison then fled the scene.

During the hearing, the prosecution called the lead detective who said that he questioned three witnesses at the scene, including the victim, the victim’s baby’s mother, and an unrelated individual who allegedly saw Harrison flee

According to the detective, the victim he and Harrison often got into argument over Harrison staring at the victim and the other witness. However, the victim’s baby’s mother supposedly told prosecutors that she was having an affair with Harrison.

Defense attorney Christen Romero Philips argued that there was no objective evidence to place Harrison at the scene of the crime as there was no video recovered or nor a forensics analysis.

Prosecutors argued Harrison’s when exiting the building “shows intent to kill,” citing Harrison saying “Go ahead on with that s***, that s***not worth it.”

The prosecutor connected Harrison to the scene explaining that in a search warrant of Harrison’s property, police recovered bullets that closely matched the shell casings at the scene. No weapon was recovered.

Philips pointed out that no one knows what happened during the argument between the suspect and the victim. Further, there were contradictions in the witnesses’ accounts of the incident.

“There is sufficient evidence” for the charges, and this doesn’t change any of the facts of the case, the prosecution argued.

Judge Demeo ruled,, “I certainly find probable cause to be pretty strong” as the inconsistencies don’t change the big picture of what happened.

Harrison’s other defense attorney, Erin Griffard, argued for Harrison’s release to his sister’s house, away from the location of the incident. With assistance from the Public Defender’s Rehabilitation Program, Harrison would have the resources to return to his jobs as a driver and restaurant staff, thus a benefi the community.

Griffard further argued that Harrison has a recurring tumor in his mouth, is awaiting surgery, and he will have a painful recovery which would be most successful in a home environment.

Prosecutors countered that Harrison is a threat to the community with previous convictions starting in 1997, most notably involuntary manslaughter and second-degree assault. They state there are no conditions or combinations of conditions to ensure safety for the community.

“The victim survived, thankfully” the prosecution continued.

Judge Demeo cited his “pattern of assaultive behavior” in denying his release, stating that at his age, “he does things after clearly thinking about them.”

The parties are set to reconvene on Jan. 24.

Jury Convicts Carjacking Codefendant

A jury in DC Superior Court Judge Andrea Hertzfeld’s courtroom found a carjacking defendant guilty of all charges on Nov. 21.

Maurice Edwards, 20, was charged with armed carjacking and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his involvement in an incident that took place at the intersection of 48th Place and Lee Street, NE on March 11. He will remain detained pending sentencing.

Azusa Beatty, 29, was originally a co-defendant but the cases were severed and Beatty will have a separate trial. She is also charged with armed carjacking and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for her alleged involvement in the incident.

During the trial, the prosecution played a video of a car accident which, according to both parties, depicts Edwards and Beatty driving together, running a stop sign, and hitting another car.

The victim testified Edwards then pulled out a gun as they were arguing which the prosecution says allowed Beatty to enter the victim’s car.

During closing arguments, the prosecution claimed that Beatty later made several phone calls to a number linked to Edwards’ phone while incarcerated. Recordings were played for the jury and included a person identified as Edwards saying, “I know you’re not telling on me,” and “We hit him, or he hit us.”

The recording also featured Beatty allegedly saying, “I’m only in here because of you,” and “I would not even be in here if I snitched on you.” According to the prosecution, these statements imply consciousness of guilt and collusion.

Raymond Jones, Edwards’ defense counsel, argued the prosecution’s evidence leaves reasonable doubt because there is no proof that Edwards threatened the victim with a gun to aid in a carjacking.

Nonetheless, the jury delivered a guilty verdict.

Sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 21.

Indictment Deadline Extended in Stabbing Case

The prosecution’s indictment deadline for a stabbing case was extended on Nov. 22 before DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park.

Chackell Anderson, 40, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon, robbery, and robbery while armed for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal stabbing. The stabbing occurred on Sept. 3 on the 1900 block of 17th Street, SE. One individual sustained wounds, and another was assaulted.

During the hearing, the prosecution motioned to extend the indictment deadline, which may also push the trial date currently set for Dec. 12.

The defense opposed this motion, but the prosecution stated they were willing to bring a plea offer to resolve the issues.

Parties will reconvene on Nov. 25 for a status hearing.

Homicide Defendants Plead Not Guilty at Arraignment

Four homicide co-defendants pleaded not guilty to all charges during an arraignment before DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan on Nov. 22.

Derricko Johnson, 20, Ronald Henderson, 19, and Daveon Robinson, 17, are charged with 16 counts of possession of a firearm during crime of violence, six counts of carrying a pistol without a license, 13 counts of assault with the intent to kill while armed and three counts of conspiracy. Henderson and Johnson are also being charged with premeditated first-degree murder while armed. Johnson is additionally charged with fleeing law enforcement while released.

These charges stem from their alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 16-year-old Justin Johnson at the 2000 block of Savannah Terrace, SE on May 26, 2022.

Before the hearing, attorney Todd Baldwin informed the court there is a another pending co-defendant who is the object of bench warrant. Dionzai Parker, 21, is charged with premeditated first-degree murder while armed, three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, two counts of carrying a rifle or shotgun outside a home or business, assault with the intent to kill while armed and conspiracy for his alleged involvement in Johnson’s death.

Johnson’s attorney, Kevann Gardner, Henderson’s attorney, Nathaniel Mensah, and Robinson’s attorney, Elizabeth Weller informed the court that their clients will plead not guilty to their indictment charges. All defense attorneys asserted their clients constitutional rights, including the right to a speedy trial.

Parties also raised the issue of pushing the trial back to 2026 due to the superseding indictment and because Parker’s attorney – which Judge Raffinan assured would be appointed quickly – might not being ready for the Aug. 2025 trial date.

Parties agreed to resolve these issues at their next hearing.

Parties will reconvene on Jan. 31, 2025.

Judge Finds Probable Cause Shelter Murder

DC Superior Court Judge Michael O’Keefe found probable cause for a murder defendant’s case to proceed on Nov. 25.

Kevin Johnson, 38, is charged with second-degree murder while armed for his alleged involvement in the murder of Antonio Woody, 44. The incident transpired on the 1700 block of Lincoln Road, NE on Oct. 6.

According to court documents, Woody sustained five stab wounds and later succumbed to his injuries.

The murder took place right outside a homeless shelter operated by the Department of Human Services (DHA) where both Johnson and Woody were residents, according to court documents. After the stabbing, video footage depicts the suspect disposing of something into a storm drain, and after the item’s recovery–it was believed to be the victim’s cellphone.

According to an individual at the crime scene, hours before the murder, Johnson threatened to tip over Woody’s wheelchair and was jumped by passers-by to defend Woody.

During the hearing, the prosecution called the lead detective on the case from the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), who also identified Johnson in court and stated he was the suspect from the scene of the incident.

The detective adopted the affidavit as his own testimony stating that two individuals saw the stabbing while two other individuals were responsible for allowing Johnson to enter the facility after checking him for weapons and signing him into the building.

Furthermore, he testified that one of the security officers noticed suspected blood on Johnson’s pants after allowing Johnson access to the shelter. The lead detective asked the security officer whether the blood raised any red flags, and the security officer said he thought nothing of it.

The other two witnesses who saw the incident transpire were able to identify Johnson from the scene, according to the detective. Upon questioning, one witness stated “Kevin did it,” and another witness said someone tall committed the act, noting Johnson’s stature, which is six feet and eight inches.

On cross examination, Johnson’s defense attorney, Elizabeth Weller, emphasized the fact that a knife was never recovered from Johnson’s or at the scene and also that Woody never texted anyone about Johnson’s alleged prior behavior toward him. Additionally, there is no way of knowing when Johnson checked himself into the shelter for the night, Weller argued.

The detective was also asked why he did not look into the fact that Johnson was attacked, to which he responded that he is not investigating that crime and the two events are unrelated. Weller also noted that everyone around the murder incident thought Johnson was punching Woody.

The defense conceded that probable cause existed, however, asked Judge Okun to release Johnson, citing his mental health issues and the fact this is her client’s first time being charged with a homicide.

The prosecution objected, arguing he has two prior gun-related convictions, drug possession with intent to distribute convictions, and the allegation he attacked a handicapped person who was vulnerable.

Judge Okun agreed with the prosecution, and detained Johnson based on the strong evidence against him.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Feb. 21, 2025.

Self-Defense Claim Leads to Acquittal in Stabbing Trial

A jury acquitted a stabbing defendant of all charges following a one-day trial in DC Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur’s court on Nov. 12.

Darin L. Anthony, 59, was charged with two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon and carrying a pistol without a license for his alleged involvement in a stabbing incident that occurred on Sep. 11, 2023, on the 400 block of W Street, NW. One individual sustained injuries.

According to court documents, Anthony had accused a family member of the victim of stealing packages delivered to his building, prompting a chase. The stabbing victim reportedly intervened to assist a family member, who Anthony was allegedly pursuing. Witnesses claimed Anthony produced a knife from his pocket and attacked the victim. At the hospital, the victim recounted swinging a cane at Anthony first before being struck with the knife.

Anthony recounted to police that he acted in self-defense, asserting that the victim was the aggressor by initiating the altercation with the cane. He claimed the victim approached him aggressively and swung a cane, in response he brandished a knife to protect himself but never swung it. He alleged that the victim ducked and fell into the knife, causing the injuries.

The prosecution argued that Anthony acted recklessly and with intent during the altercation. However, after briefly deliberating, the jury found him not guilty on all three charges.

No further dates were set.

Defendant Acquitted of all Charges in Gang Linked Killing

A homicide defendant accused of gang ties was acquitted of all six charges against him before DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan on Nov. 22.

Tony Morgan, 31, was originally charged with first-degree murder while armed with aggravating circumstances, assault with intent to kill while armed, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction, and conspiracy for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 19-year-old Malik McCloud on Oct. 20, 2018 on the 3500 block of Wheeler Road, SE.

Martinez Raynor, 26, is also charged in connection to McCloud’s death. Judge Raffinan had granted a request to sever the cases, allowing them to be tried separately.

During the prosecution’s closing arguments, they stated that the main motive was gang rivalry and that everyone involved knew the purpose was to “kill, kill, kill”. Shots continued even after McCloud had been disabled, creating a “hail of gunfire,” according to the prosecutor.

Morgan and Raynor were allegedly involved in the so-called Solid Gang, rivals with the PDS gang, which included McCloud.

Morgan’s attorneys, Steven Kiersch and Megan Allburn, noted that throughout the trial, no eyewitness identified Morgan as the shooter. Not one person said he fired shots or was responsible for anyone’s death.

The jury agreed and returned the not guilty verdicts.

Judge Raffinan ordered Morgan be released from the DC Jail.

No further date was set.