Judge Denies Shooting Defendant’s Request for Release, Despite Description Discrepancies

DC Superior Court Jennifer Di Toro denied a shooting defendant’s request for release on Sep. 2.

Cornell Smith, 22, is charged with aggravated assault knowingly while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in a shooting that occurred on the 2200 block of Minnesota Avenue, SE, on Aug. 24. Smith allegedly shot one victim in the leg during the incident.

Counsel for Smith, Sean McCliggott, requested Smith be released, arguing that Smith was not found with a gun and was compliant with law enforcement once he was caught.

Additionally, McCliggott pointed out that the initial description of the shooter sent out on the radio differed from Smith’s characteristics and the shooter’s clothes.

The prosecution argued against Smith’s release, noting that despite discrepancies in police descriptions, GPS monitoring put Smith at the scene of the shooting. Moreover, the prosecution argued that at the time of the shooting, Smith had already violated multiple terms of his release conditions. Judge Di Toro denied Smith’s request for release.

The parties are slated to reconvene Sept. 16.

Document: MPD Investigating Brentwood Homicide

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) announced they are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred on Sep. 1 on the 2300 block of 14th Street, NE. The victim, identified as 36-year-old Francois Adkins was found with gunshot wounds and later pronounced dead at a hospital.

Carjacking Co-Defendants Plead Not Guilty at Arraignment

Two carjacking co-defendants pleaded not guilty at their arraignment on Aug. 27 before DC Superior court Judge Judith Pipe.

Shaquille Pittman, 30, and Regina Christmas are charged with assault with a dangerous weapon, armed carjacking, robbery while armed, five counts of possession of a firearm, and unlawful possession of ammunition for their alleged involvement in a incident on the 4300 block of Polk Street, NE on July 18, 2020.

Daniel Kovler, Pittman’s attorney, and Stephen LoGerfo, Christmas’ attorney, alerted Judge Pipe of their intent to plead not guilty to all charges, and asserted their clients’ constitutional rights.

Christmas, for her part, focused on her current compliance with mental health requirements previously set by the court.

Kovler implored Judge Pipe to expedite Pittman’s case, as he had the same charges brought against him in 2021 for the exact same incident. In 2021, the case was eventually dropped by the prosecution due to a witness not being ready to testify, but re-opened this year.

Judge Pipe ordered Pittman, who has been on release since 2021, to adhere to conditions set by the court, including reporting to the Pretrial Services Agency (PSA) via phone once per week and having no firearms or bullets in his possession. Judge Pipe emphasized the importance of staying in compliance to avoid severe consequences.

Both defendants are scheduled for their next hearing on Sept. 30.

Prosecutor Dismisses Charge in Stabbing Case, Trial Delayed

Prosecutors dismissed a stabbing defendant’s possession of a prohibited weapon charge before DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park on Sept. 2, and delayed a trial due to a prosecutor’s personal emergency.

Dishon Washington, 50, is charged with assault with intent to kill while armed, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, assault with significant bodily injury while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, and carrying a dangerous weapon. The charges are in connection to his alleged involvement in the stabbing of an individual on Dec. 8, 2019, at the 4400 Block of Gault Place, NE.

Washington’s defense attorney, Varsha Govindaraju, motioned to dismiss the possession of a prohibited weapon, citing the Second Amendment’s right to bear arms, on Aug. 26. During the Sept. 2 hearing, prosecutors dismissed the charge.

The prosecution asked for the trial, which was slated to begin Sept. 2, to be delayed because one prosecutor was not able to be present due to a personal emergency. Additionally, prosecutors required more time to determine witness availability. There was no objection.

Govindaraju made two motions to dismiss the case for the prosecution’s alleged failure to provide the defense with potentially exculpatory evidence.

Judge Park suggested parties reconvene at a later date to resolve these issues.

Parties agreed to reconvene on Sept. 18.

Data Shows Enforcement Surge Blunts DC Crime, Though Many Face Minor Charges

A D.C. Witness analysis of law enforcement data during the federal troop surge shows that arrests in the city have increased significantly while violent crime is down, in some cases dramatically so compared to cases from the same period last year.

However, a review of DC Jail lock up lists obtained by D.C. Witness from Aug. 25 to Aug. 29 –summarized in the graphic below–shows that while 422 defendants were processed and charged for a variety of crimes, no one was booked for murder or carjacking.

“I don’t really know who the arresting officers are. I’m told that the National Guard can only detain someone until the police get there to make the arrest. But there are definitely a lot more arrests in general,” said Todd Baldwin, president of Superior Court Trial Lawyers Association. The group represents most criminal defendants that come before the court.

In the mix, there were 79 assaults, including sixteen against police officers; there were 43 firearm related charges; 32 individuals were accused of driving without a license; 24 were accused of carrying an open container of alcohol; nine were cited for consuming marijuana in public.

There were also six charged with Metro fare evasion. One defendant was accused of using fighting words. There was also one person charged with unlawful disclosure of sexually explicit material.

One seasoned defense attorney says a large number of the arrests are for highly visible crimes like assaulting a police officer or carrying an open container of alcohol (COCA).

Beginning on Aug. 7, more than 2,000 members of the National Guard have been deployed to the District to counter what President Trump has declared as a “crime emergency.”

New data from the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) confirms the approach has had an effect.

Looking at the surge period from Aug. 7 to Aug. 31, the total number of arrests has gone up 25 percent from 1,567 in 2024 to 1,962 this year. The enhancement has also resulted in a dramatic decline in the rates of certain crimes, according to the MPD data.

Also, according to the MPD, homicides and sex abuse offenses are down 58 percent and 40 percent respectively. Carjackings, often committed by youthful offenders, are down a whopping 83 percent.

The downward trend in homicides reflects a declining rate during the past three years, according to data compiled by D.C. Witness.

On Sept. 2 DC Mayor Muriel Bowser issued an executive pledging to continue of the “Safe and Beautiful Task Force,” established by the President, as well as the Presidential declaration of emergency.

Carjacking Defense Asks for Second Mental Assessment

A carjacking defendant’s attorney requested additional mental evaluations before DC Superior Court Judge Andrea Hertzfeld on Aug. 29.

Cornell Jamison, 21, and Laiten Bell, 20, are charged with carjacking and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for their alleged involvement in an incident that occurred Jan. 22 on the 4300 block of 3rd Street, SE.

Daniel Dorsey, Jamison’s attorney, explained in the hearing that the DC Jail had not yet received supporting documents to make a final decision on Jamison’s competence. As such, another mental observational hearing will be held on Sep. 11.

In order to stand trial, a defendant must understand the charges against him and be able to help his lawyer.

Parties are al scheduled to reconvene on Sept. 11

No Progress in Court For No-Show Shooting Defendant

Dedric Owens, 27, refused to attend a hearing on Aug. 29 with DC Superior Court Judge Andrea Hertzfeld. This is the second time in four months that Owens refuses to attend court.

Owens 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 that occurred on Oct. 28, 2024 on the 4800 block of North Capitol Street, NE. No injuries were reported from the incident.

The last time Owens was present in court for this case was July 17, where his attorney, Shawn Sukumar, told Judge Hertzfeld of plans to discuss plea negotiations and potential counter-offers with the prosecution. However, with Owens’ refusal to appear from jail, trial proceedings cannot go forward.

The felony status conference for Owens’ has been rescheduled for Sep. 10.

‘I Died Three Times on the Table,’ Stabbing Victim Says at Sentencing

A defendant was sentenced for his part in two non-fatal stabbings before DC Superior Court Judge Jennifer Di Toro on Sep. 2.

On March 14, Chauncey Myers, 30, pleaded guilty to aggravated assault while armed for his involvement in a stabbing that occurred on the 1600 block of Marion Berry Avenue, SE on July 13, 2024. A woman sustained injuries during the incident.

Myers also pleaded guilty to attempted assault with a dangerous weapon for a separate stabbing involving a corrections officer in the DC Jail on the 1900 block of D Street, SE on Jan. 29.

The victim in the July stabbing told Judge Di Toro “I died three times on the table,” recalling the need to be resuscitated during surgery. She detailed how the stabbing destroyed one kidney and her gall bladder, and has left her with constant pain after a three month hospital stay.

The prosecution requested the maximum possible sentence for the charges against the defendant. They showed body camera footage from the police response to the incident, which showed the victim unconscious on the sidewalk with blood pouring out of a wound that had been packed with the clothes of nearby witnesses. The victim was noticeably distressed while the video was played for the court.

“Nothing that [Myers] did prevented this from being a homicide,” stated the prosecution, highlighting the severity of the injuries caused by the defendant.

Following this video, a recording of a jail call between Myers and an associate was presented to the court. In it, he can be heard saying “If she go to court I’m done,” before trying to get someone else to intimidate the victim against testifying.

Joseph Fay, who represented Myers, later mentioned that Myers never contacted the complainant or followed through on his threats to intimidate her.

Fay emphasized Myers’ difficult childhood in the foster care system and previous struggles with mental health and substance abuse.

“There was a complete lack of stability in his upbringing,” Fay said.

Fay asked for the bottom guideline of sentencing, pointing to the facts that Myers had no prior felonies, was consistently employed, and had already completed drug treatment programs during his incarceration.

The defense, prior to sentencing, also requested that Myers be placed in a facility close to DC so that he can be near his children and access specific prison reform programs.

Myers was sentenced to 72 months for aggravated assault and 12 months for attempted assault, set to run concurrently. He will also be subject to three years of supervised release, during which he will be required to undergo drug treatment and mental health programs.

“This was a very serious event that resulted in the possible loss of life.” Di Toro said.

No further dates were set.

Shooting Defendant Denied Request Based on Charges, Past History

A shooting defendant’s request for pretrial release was denied by DC Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur on Sep. 3.

Marcus Reavenell, 48, has been 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 alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting at the intersection of Foote and 58th Streets, NE on May 14. No injuries were reported.

The defense, led by attorney Lisbeth Sapirstein, asked for Reavenell to be released on electronic monitoring before trial, citing his work with children with autism, the amount of time that has passed since his prior convictions, and the fact that no one was injured.

Judge Arthur denied any changes in pre-trial status and pointed to the violent nature of the crime and the fact that Reavenell has three prior convictions for firearms related charges.

Parties are set to reconvene on Sep. 22.

Stabbing Defendant Waives Preliminary Hearing

A stabbing defendant waived the right to a preliminary hearing and was granted release on Sept. 2 before DC Superior Court Judge Robert Salerno. Sep. 2.

Veronica Jackson, 53, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for her alleged involvement in a stabbing on Aug. 27 on the 700 block of H Street, NE. An individual sustained hand injuries during the incident.

During the hearing, Sellano Simmons, Jackson’s attorney, alerted the court of her intent to waive her preliminary hearing, and requested she be released pending further proceedings.

According to Simmons, Jackson has a support system, employment, and no prior criminal history that would ensure her success with release.

Judge Salerno granted the request, and ordered GPS monitoring and a stay away order from the stabbing victim.

Parties are slated to reconvene Oct. 2.

Co-Defendants Plead Guilty in Assault Case

DC Superior Court Judge Jennifer Di Toro accepted the guilty pleas of two assault co-defendants on Aug. 28.

Tyshawn Simms, 26, and Daymark Baird, 21, were originally charged with assault with significant bodily injury for their involvement in the stabbing of an inmate on April 17 at the DC Jail on Apr. 17. The incident took place on the 1900 block of D Street, SE. One individual sustained injuries.

During the hearing, Judge Di Toro acknowledged the co-defedants’ request to enter a plea of guilty rather than going to trial. Both defendants pleaded to one count of assault with significant bodily injury, in exchange for the prosecution not seeking additional charges.

In pleading guilty, Simms and Baird waive their right to a jury trial, waive their right to appeal, and waive their right to DNA testing. The prosecution stated that their evidence would’ve proven the guilt of Simms and Baird beyond a reasonable doubt.

They admit their involvement in the incident.

Simms’ defense attorney, Jonathan Lanyi, requested that he be released until sentencing. The prosecution opposed his release. Judge Di Toro noted the seriousness of the charge and decided he will remain held until sentencing.

A hearing for Simms has been set for Oct. 16. Baird’s sentencing has been set for Sept. 30.

Mental Eval Ordered For Carjacking Defendant

A mental competency evaluation for a carjacking defendant was approved by DC Superior Court Judge Andrea Hertzfeld on Aug. 25.

Cornell Jamison, 21, is charged with armed carjacking for his alleged involvement in an incident that took place on the 4300 block of 3rd Street, SE on Jan. 22.

Jamison appeared in court alongside his co-defendent Laiten Bell, 20, who faces charges of armed carjacking, robbery, and two counts possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in the same incident.

During the hearing, defense attorney Daniel Dorsey requested that Jamison undergo an examination to determine if he is mentally competent to stand trial. Dorsey argued that Jamison’s competency was in question based on their discussions and the defendant’s high school records.

In order to stand trial a defendant must be competent enough to understand the charges and work with his lawyer.

Judge Hertzfeld granted the motion for an evaluation.

Parties are slated to reconvene Aug. 29.

Shooting Defendant Ordered to Wear an Ankle Monitor

DC Superior Court Judge Judith Pipe strengthened the release conditions for a shooting defendant on Aug. 28, following multiple violations.

Jory Sydnor, 25, is charged with aggravated assault knowingly while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm for his alleged involvement in a shooting that took place on the 1400 block of Trinidad Avenue, NE on April 11. Sydnor’s ex-step-father was injured during the incident.

At his last hearing, Judge Pipe directed Sydnor, who has been on supervised release, to comply with a mental health assessment at the court’s urgent care facility directly after the hearing—an order that Sydnor allegedly did not comply with. Sydnor has also allegedly failed to appear for multiple drug assessments and has not checked-in with the Pretrial Services Agency (PSA) since his last hearing.

Prosecutors asked Judge Piper to reconsider Sydnor’s release status, requesting that, at minimum, he wear an ankle monitor. The prosecution said that she felt bound to ask for stricter release conditions due to Sydnor’s continued failure to comply.

Sydnor’s defense attorney, Gregg Baron, argued that Sydnor did not feel safe leaving his home because the victim in this case, who also faces charges related to the incident, continued to contact Sydnor’s family, directly violating a stay-away order.

Judge Pipe ordered Sydnor to wear an ankle monitor, immediately submit to a full drug screening, and report to PSA within 24 hours of the hearing.

“I need Mr. Sydnor to be in touch with Pretrial Services,” Judge Pipe said.

The parties are slated to reconvene Sept. 5.

Shooting Defendant Rejects Plea Deal

A shooting defendant rejected a plea deal before DC Superior Court Judge Judith Pipe on Aug. 28.

Michael Manley, 23, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting that occurred on the 1700 block of 6th Street, SE on April 11, 2025. No injuries were reported, but Manley’s ex-girlfriend’s car was damaged in the incident.

During the hearing, Manley rejected a plea agreement that would have required him to plead guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon, unlawful discharge of a firearm, and destruction of property in exchange for the prosecution not seeking an indictment.

Manley maintains his innocence, and a trial date was set for Dec. 10.

The parties are slated to reconvene Sept. 30.

Shooting Defendant Sentenced to Three-and-a-Half Years

DC Superior Court Judge Jennifer Di Toro sentenced a shooting defendant to 42 months of imprisonment on Aug. 28.

On June 27, Cameron McMillian, 35, pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon and unlawful possession of a firearm for his involvement in a non-fatal shooting on Jan. 24, on the 1100 block of 4th Street, SW. One individual sustained injuries during the incident.

During the hearing, the prosecution presented surveillance video said to show the defendant interacting with another individual when the victim interjected. The prosecutor claimed McMillian was the initial aggressor.

The prosecutor also brought up the defendant’s criminal history alleging that he has attacked others with firearms before. They also stated that there have been times when McMillan owned a firearm though he wasn’t permitted to do so.

The prosecution argued that the bullet discharged during the incident grazed the victim’s cheek and went through his shoulder. The victim was allegedly a friend of McMillian’s.

According to the defense, McMillian accidentally discharged the firearm.

Errin Scialpi, McMillian’s attorney, claimed that he approached a group of individuals with the intention of a confrontation. The verbal altercation then escalated and the victim began to take off his jacket. Scialpi argued that there was a mutual escalation.

Additionally, Scialpi stated that McMillian was unaware the victim had been shot as the victim did not react and stayed at the scene.

Scialpi stated that there are contradictory versions of what happened but that McMillian is remorseful and recognized the dangerousness of his conduct.

McMillian stated that he was talking to the victim and the other individuals, and was not trying to shoot his friend and did not know he had been shot.

Judge Di Toro agreed the shooting was unintentional but McMillan was not supposed to have a gun.

McMillian was sentenced to 42 months of imprisonment and three years of supervised release for assault with a dangerous weapon. He was also sentenced to 36 months of imprisonment, with a mandatory minimum of one year, and three years of supervised release for unlawful possession of a firearm. The sentences and supervised release will run concurrently.

McMillian will also be required to register as a gun offender. Additionally, Judge Di Toro ordered a mental health evaluation and anger management. She also ordered job assistance as needed upon release.

No further dates were set.

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