Armed Carjacking Defendant Accepts Plea Deal

A carjacking defendant pled guilty to robbery and unlicensed use of a vehicle in front of DC Superior Court Judge Jennifer DiToro on Dec. 3.

Vincent Jones, 29, was originally charged with carjacking, two counts of possession of firearm during a crime of violence, and robbery while armed for his involvement in an armed carjacking on the 3900 block of Minnesota Avenue, NE on June 16, 2023, no one was injured.

The remaining charges, which were possession of a firearm during a crime of violence and robbery while armed, were dismissed as part of the plea agreement.

The prosecution argued that Jones, with two accomplices, stole car keys from a victim and took the car which was nearby without any justification.

Jones asserted that he was comfortable with the decision he was making, and he felt that he received sufficient advice from his defense attorney, Peter Odom.

Judge Demeo ordered a pre-sentencing report, and parties will reconvene for sentencing on Feb. 4.

Uber Shooting Suspect Found Competent to Stand Trial

DC Superior Court Judge Heidi Pasichow stated that a shooting defendant is mentally competent to stand trial on Dec. 2.

Sean Butler, 28, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in a shooting incident that occurred on May 6 at the 2000 block of Rhode Island Avenue, NE.

According to court documents, the victim, who was working as an Uber driver, picked up Butler. While she was taking him to his destination, Butler noticed police as the Uber got close to a traffic signal. At that point Butler allegedly bolted out of the car, pointed a gun at the victim, and shot once.

Defense attorney Matthew Rist stated that a psychologist for the defense found that Butler is competent to stand trial. Rist also stated, however, that Butler has symptoms of psychosis, and that state of mind may carry weight in plea negotiations.

Rist requested that the court allow the psychologist to write an extended report for consideration of the court.

The prosecution agreed.

Judge Pasichow agree and declared Butler competent in that he understands the charges against him and can participate in his own defense. She requested that the extended report by the psychologist be sent to the court by the next hearing date, and that the defense can reach out to chambers if they need more time.

The next hearing is scheduled for Jan. 17.

Preliminary Hearing Delayed For Plea Offer in A Stabbing

DC Superior Court Judge Eric Glover granted a stabbing defendant’s request for a continuance on Dec. 3 so he can decide on a a plea offer.

Marshal Baxster, 38, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for his alleged involvement in a stabbing on the 3000 block of R Street, NW on Nov. 29. One person sustained an injury to the right wrist.

According to court documents, Baxster was allegedly going through a bag that was left unattended in a park. As the owner was walking up to stop Baxster from taking his things, Baxster allegedly punched the victim in the face and took off with his belongings on a bike. The victim gave chase on foot and eventually caught up with Baxster.

After being stopped, Baxster allegedly pepper sprayed the victim’s face and then produced a knife, swinging at the victim. One of the swings connected causing a deep laceration to his right wrist, according to court documents.

During the hearing, Baxster’s defense counsel, Shawn Sukumar, asked Judge Glover if he would grant a continuance so Baxster could finalize his decision regarding a plea deal that would resolve multiple cases.

According to the prosecution, the offer would require Baxster to plead guilty to attempted assault with a deadly weapon in the stabbing case and plead guilty to simple assault in a sex abuse case.

In return, the prosecution would cap their sentencing request at the bottom of the guidelines for the attempted assault with a deadly weapon charge and cap the simple assault charge at 180 days total suspended.

Judge Glover granted the continuance.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Dec. 19.

Support Fellow Residents this Giving Tuesday

During this season, we give thanks to the blessings in our lives, but unfortunately for some, the holidays are just another reminder of a tragic loss of a loved one.

As someone who lost my father to gun violence when I was a teenager, I understand the need to know what happens in the case. I also understand the pain of feeling left out of the judicial process, feeling voiceless.

D.C. Witness has developed a new, unique technology – our Victim Notification System – that includes and educates everyone impacted by violent crime, whether directly or indirectly, about the criminal justice process with deeper information focused on specific cases in specific locations. Its real time feature keeps everyone updated on what happens in cases when it happens.

The VNS is accessible through our website (dcwitness.org).

We developed this tool because we understand how the criminal justice system seems closed off, which is why we do what we do to keep you informed.

So, on this Giving Tuesday, I am asking you to consider those who have been impacted by violent crime and currently stuck in a place of not only loss, but also uncertainty and confusion.

Help D.C. Witness improve our VNS tool by donating to our end of year campaign. With your support we would be able to reach more victims, cover more types of violent crime and give all residents not only a sense of knowledge about what’s going on in violent crime cases, but also a sense of safety.

Help D.C. Witness Support Residents

Defense Attorney Calls Murder Victim and Friends, ‘Three Home Invaders’

During openings, a murder defendant’s attorney claimed that the victim and her friends were “three home invaders [who] began to assault and terrorize” the defendant and his girlfriend in a Dec. 3 trial before DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt.

Amard Jefferson, 33, is charged with second-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, unlawful possession of a firearm, carrying a pistol without a license, and obstruction of justice in connection to the Aug. 7 2021 fatal shooting of Kendall Brown, 20, on the 3000 block of Nelson Place, SE.

“Kendall Brown’s life matters,” prosecutors stated at the outset of their opening statement. Prosecutors continued by identifying each of the five individuals in the apartment the night Brown was killed and asserted that the four women were growing apart, but “a friendship breaking down … is not justification for someone to lose their life.”

The prosecution detailed a narrative that Brown and two of her friends arrived at the Nelson Place apartment to retrieve a bottle of tequila. The situation escalated when the home-owner, a former friend of Brown’s, claimed not to have it. Brown and her friends forced their way inside and began searching the apartment, which is when Jefferson, identified as the homeowner’s boyfriend, allegedly went to retrieve his gun and fired, shooting Brown, “an unarmed woman.”

Prosecutors then alleged Brown’s friends left the apartment in fear, providing time for Jefferson, his girlfriend and her son to lock the door to the apartment and escape through the back of the building. When police arrived, it took seven minutes to break the door down and provide first aid to Brown, according to the prosecution.

Prosecutors continued by identifying key pieces of evidence. First, Jefferson’s DNA was nearly 100 percent confirmed to be on the gun stashed in a drainage pipe only a few blocks from the crime scene. Second, the ballistics from the same gun and casing found in the apartment were consistent. Third, Jefferson’s girlfriend’s phone could be identified at the crime scene at the time of the incident, followed through Jefferson’s apartment, and lastly, “holed up in another jurisdiction,” where Jefferson was arrested.

Prosecutors concluded by referencing text messages between Jefferson and his girlfriend from while he was in jail, asserting that “he tried to get [her] to take the fall for him,” sending messages like “tell em it wasn’t my mistle” and “im tryna talk in code.”

Michelle Stevens, Jefferson’s attorney argued “sometimes the [prosecution] gets things wrong.” Stevens told a different version of the events, alleging that the incident was a “planned robbery and assault” from Brown and her friends.

Stevens cited a video one of Brown’s friends took at the beginning of the altercation, claiming the fact that someone was recording was an indicator the women were prepared for violence, and referencing how Brown and her friends “force their way into the apartment,” by blocking the door.

“Three home invaders began to assault and terrorize,” the defendant and his girlfriend, Stevens claimed, continuing by stating that “these women meant him [Jefferson] harm.”

Stevens bolstered this idea by referencing Instagram messages one of Brown’s friends had sent Jefferson’s girlfriend only days before the incident. They read “ANSWER BI*CH” followed by “Imma smack every single one of your disabled kids.”

The trial continued with testimony from Brown’s sister who asserted Brown “wanted everyone to just get along” and “loved animals and anything living.” Brown’s sister admitted on cross that Brown would sometimes be asked to leave the house by their mother, but that the relationship was typical of three women living together.

Two Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officers also testified, one added context to the body-worn camera footage of the seven minutes it takes officers to break down the apartment door and the other testified that a civilian flagged the officer down and pointed to where he had seen someone stash a firearm.

The trial is set to continue Dec. 4

Document: UPDATE MPD Investigating Fatal Crash Involving MPD Member

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) announced an investigation into a fatal crash involving an MPD member that occurred on Nov 30. The incident involved a collision between an unmarked MPD cruiser and a motorcycle at the intersection of Columbia Road and 13th Street, NW. The motorcycle operator, identified as 20-year-old Giulianny Castro from Hyattsville, MD, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The MPD member involved was uninjured and has been placed on administrative leave as the investigation continues.

document: MPD Investigating Fatal Crash Involving MPD Member

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) announced an investigation into a fatal crash involving an MPD member that occurred on Nov 30. An unmarked MPD cruiser, driven by an on-duty Commander, collided with a speeding, unregistered motorcycle at the intersection of Columbia Road and 13th Street, NW. The motorcycle operator was ejected and pronounced deceased, while the MPD member was uninjured and has been placed on administrative leave. Detectives are working to identify the deceased motorcycle operator.

Document: MPD Investigating T Street Northwest Homicide

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) announced they are investigating a homicide that occurred on Nov 28 on the 600 block of T Street, NW. The victim, identified as 21-year-old Tavaughn Norde, was found with gunshot wounds and pronounced dead at the scene. The case has been ruled a homicide, and authorities are seeking information from the public.

Carjacking Defendant Won’t Be Released

An unarmed carjacking defendant was denied his request for release again by Superior Court Judge Jennifer Di Toro based on past rulings on Dec. 2.

Kendall Joiner, 21, is charged with unarmed carjacking and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in an incident on the 2000 block of Savannah Street, SE on May 30.

Joiner and his co-defendant, Rickey Lindsey, allegedly pointed firearms at a victim in the passenger’s seat, forcing him out of the car, assaulting the victim, and then proceeding to steal the car.

At the hearing, Joiner’s defense attorney, Sellano Simmons, requested Joiner be released until the next hearing. Simmons argued he is young, a long-term resident of DC, and had various family members who could look after him.

Judge Di Toro denied his request, based on her ruling from Oct. 4. According to Judge Di Toro, nothing has changed significantly since the previous hearing that would cause Judge Di Toro to approve Joiner’s release request.

Parties are set to reconvene on Jan. 14.

Judge Denies Motion to Return Homicide Defendant’s Guns

A motion for the return of personal property was denied by DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan on Dec. 2.

Keanan Turner, 35, was convicted of two counts of first-degree murder while armed with aggravating circumstances, assault with intent to kill while armed, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, attempted first-degree murder committed against a minor, second-degree cruelty to children, four counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business, arson, and destruction of property worth less than $1,000.

The conviction stemmed from the shooting deaths of Wanda Wright, 48, and her daughter Ebony Wright, 31, on the 2300 block of Good Hope Court, SE, on April 12, 2021. Ebony’s sister was also a victim but survived, along with Ebony’s three-month-old child.

On Oct. 18, Judge Raffinan sentenced Turner to 69-and-a-half years of imprisonment.

Following the trial, Turner’s father filed a motion for the return of his personal property, which were two guns recovered from his house during a search warrant executed by the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

The prosecution opposed this motion, stating that there is no indication the guns were purchased or owned legally. They also stated that they would expect that showing ownership of the property “would be a relatively easy thing to do.”

Frederick Iverson, representing Turner’s dad, stated that the guns were tested and shown not to be the guns used in the events, therefore they are not relevant to this case.

“We just want to make sure we are returning this property to the rightful owner to prevent threat to the community,” stated the prosecution in response.

Judge Raffinan denied the motion. She stated that based on previous case law, it is not clear that this court has jurisdiction to order return of property to a non party. She also stated that even if it does, the prosecution should retain all evidence until any appeal is resolved in this case.

No further dates are set at this time.

Defendant Rejects Plea Offer, Found Competent to Stand Trial

A shooting defendant rejected a plea offer and was found mentally competent to stand trial in front of DC Superior Court Judge Andrea Hertzfeld on Dec. 2.

Bryant Russell, 47, is charged with aggravated assault knowingly while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a convict for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting that occurred on June 6, 2024 on the 5000 block of Just Street, NE. One individual sustained injuries during the incident.

According to court documents, the victim was sitting on the porch smoking when Russell allegedly came up to the house and shot the person in the right arm.

A mental competency exam had previously been ordered for Russell, and Judge Hertzfeld read in open court that Russell was found competent to stand trial.

Defense attorney Daniel Dorsey spoke on behalf of Russell, rejecting the plea deal extended by the prosecution. The plea stated that if Russell pleaded guilty to aggravated assault while armed, the prosecution wouldn’t bring any further charges against him, and would agree to cap his sentences within the bottom third of the guideline range.

A trial date has been set for March 6.

Detective Testifies in Drug Deal Turned Murder

DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan presided over a detective’s testimony for the prosecution in a preliminary hearing on Nov. 27.

Juan Adams, 39, is charged with second-degree murder while armed for his alleged involvement in an incident that occurred on the 1700 block of Benning Road NE on Dec. 2, 2023 which resulted in the death of 38-year-old Michael Hansley.

A Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) detective gave his testimony and an in court identification of Adams as the individual seen within the surveillance videos surrounding the incident scene.

The detective claimed that the defendant and victim seemingly knew each other based on witness testimonies and that Hansley had allegedly bought narcotics from Adams. After a conflict about the narcotics deal, witnesses stated that Hansley confronted Adams, and things turned violent.

Defense attorney Rachel Cicurel, questioned the in-court identification as the detective had only seen the defendant in video surveillance. Cicurel noted he was not the one to conduct the arrest and that there were two suspects.

In surveillance footage shown in court, three individuals can be seen approaching Hansley on the sidewalk. An individual, who is thought to be Adams within the video, stretches his hand toward Hansley, who then slumps over off his scooter.

Cicurel again questioned the legitimacy of the footage because of how far the individuals are from the camera, and the quality is poor.

Due to time constraints, the detective was unable to conclude his testimony.

Parties are set to reconvene Dec. 3.

Judge Denies Homicide Defendant’s Release Considering Past Offenses

DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan denied a homicide defendant’s request for release on Nov. 27.

Maurice Corbin, 45, is charged with premeditated first-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence and unlawful possession of a firearm. These charges stem from his alleged involvement in a fatal-shooting that occurred on April 30 on the 1500 block of North Capitol Street NE, which resulted in the death of 19-year-old Dequan Gardner.

Defense attorney Julie Swaney argued for release because of Corbin’s social support network. According to Swaney, Corbin’s friend, who is a social worker, agreed to ensure Corbin could safely be released.

The prosecution opposed release, arguing Corbin still remains a threat to victims and nothing has changed since he was indicted on these charges.

The prosecution also argued Corbin allegedly committed this crime on supervised release for another crime, during which, according to court documents, he allegedly slit the throat of another individual.

Judge Raffinan denied this request due to the nature of the crime which was violent, citing specifically that the victim was unarmed. She added Corbin has countless other offenses in DC and Maryland and noncompliance with supervision in multiple accounts.

Parties are set to reconvene Feb. 19.

Judge Won’t Release Stabbing Defendant

DC Superior Court Judge Judith Pipe ruled a stabbing defendant will remain detained in light of new evidence on Dec. 2.

Maurice Felder, 53, is charged with 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, Matthew Rist, Felder’s attorney, asked Judge Pipe to review newly obtained cell phone footage of the incident. According to Rist, the affidavit inaccurately presented the cell phone footage and argued that he should be released because the footage offered a new perspective on the crime.

Moreover, Rist argued that Felder was trying to get away from the victim and a group of individuals until cornered against a wall. Additionally, he mentioned that the witness who recorded the event can be heard encouraging the victim to attack Felder.

Judge Pipe viewed the footage taken from a cell phone, which depicted the two individuals arguing and the victim allegedly cornering Felder near a wall. All the while, the victim was being cheered on. Immediately following, someone noticed a knife and the victim was stabbed in the chest as everyone fled.

Judge Pipe focused on the fact that the victim was stabbed while trying to get away from Felder. She announced that he was not necessarily cornered into a wall, but unsure of which side a jury would favor if presented at trial. She continued by saying that, at the very least, probable cause exists.

Judge Pipe ruled that Felder must remain detained while the case progresses.

Parties are expected to reconvene on Dec. 17.

Defendant Rejects Plea Offer in A Shooting

A non-fatal shooting defendant rejected a plea offer and asked for a trial date before DC Superior Court Judge Marisa Demeo on Dec. 2.

Andrew Black, 51, is charged with assault with intent to kill while armed, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, possession of an unregistered firearm, unlawful possession of a firearm by a convict, unlawful possession of ammunition, and carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business.

Black’s charges stem from his alleged involvement in a Sept. 9, 2023, non-fatal shooting on the 4600 block of Connecticut Avenue, NW, injuring one person.

At the hearing, the prosecution stated that if Black had accepted the offer, he would have been required to plead guilty to aggravated assault and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, in exchange for a dismissal of all other charges.

Parties are slated to reconvene Feb. 4, 2025.

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