Murder Defendant Gets 8 Years For Manslaughter As Victim’s Family Grieves

A murder defendant, was sentenced to eight years of incarceration before DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman on July 11 as the victim’s distraught family expressed their grief.

Rafael Stevens, 40, pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter on April 14 for his role in the fatal shooting of 50-year-old Aniekobo “Sammy” Umoh on Dec. 29, 2022, on the 2000 block of 7th Street, NE.

He was tried for first and second-degree murder, as well as multiple firearm charges. However, the jury was unable to reach a unanimous verdict for the murder counts in November of 2024 but found him guilty of unlawful possession of a firearm due to a prior conviction.

To avoid a retrial, Stevens accepted a plea deal admitting voluntary manslaughter in exchange for an agreed-upon sentence of 96 months to run concurrently with the firearm conviction.

During the hearing, the prosecution played a compilation video showing the victim smiling and hugging friends outside a liquor store. The purpose was to show the victim was not a violent person and to highlight how the loss of someone deeply loved affected his community.

Several members of Umoh’s family addressed the court and spoke about their grief and the lasting impact of his death.

Umoh’s youngest sister told the court that the loss of her brother devastated her family. “This was the most emotionally taxing event for my family,” she said.

Reflecting on her and the defendant’s similar background, she continued, “He and I are around the same age—I went to medical school and have three beautiful boys. He continues to use his upbringing as an excuse for his actions. We both came from the same town, but I didn’t use that as an excuse.”

She concluded her remarks by saying, “I think the justice system is broken in many ways. He does not deserve any grace. He will still come out of this case with a family, but we will be broken forever.”

Umoh’s older brother recalled knowing Stevens. “I knew the defendant when he was a little boy,” he said. “Never thought he would be the one to kill my brother.”

He described the bond between his son and Umoh, saying, “My son was shy but gravitated towards Sammy, now he lost that relationship.” He asked the court, “Just give [Stevens] an appropriate sentence.”

Another sister read a statement on behalf of their mother, who could not bring herself to speak in person.

“The most tragic part was that he died alone,” she said, reading her mother’s words. “There are no words to describe the nightmare we have endured. We are shattered. Our family is shattered. I have no idea what healing from this loss looks like.”

She then shared her own statement with the court. “I loved my brother very deeply,” she said. “As the two kids in the middle of the pack, we had our little bond. I miss Sammy immensely. Sammy was like a Renaissance man—able to make magic with his hands and his mind. He struggled to find his place and worth in this world. Sammy’s light will shine in each of us for eternity.”

Stevens’ defense attorney, Varsha Govindaraju, asked the court to accept the agreed-upon sentence, emphasizing that Stevens had persevered through difficult circumstances. “Even though Mr. Stevens’ background was stacked up against him—mental health issues, substance use—he still persevered,” she said.

“He learned how to start [a company] from YouTube. He was a mentor in the Young Men Emerging program, built for young men who want to change their lives for the better. Stevens wants to learn and grow during incarceration,” she told Judge Edelman.

Stevens also addressed the courtroom briefly. “I express my condolences. I send all my love and blessings to y’all. Life goes on. Just keep praying,” he said.

Before delivering the sentence, Judge Edelman acknowledged the family’s pain. “Closure is what a lot of people are looking for, but court is not the best place to get it,” he said.

Stevens was sentenced to 96 months of incarceration with credit for time served, followed by five years of supervised release. The sentence will run concurrently with his prior firearm conviction.

No further dates have been set.

MPD Arrest Suspect in an Assault in Northwest

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) announced the arrest of 57-year-old Brian Gomillion, who allegedly threatened a victim with a knife on Wisconsin Ave in NW. The incident occurred on July 3, when an argument escalated, leading Gomillion to brandish a knife. The victim was unharmed, and Gomillion was charged with Assault with a Dangerous Weapon.

MPD Arrests Man in May Shooting

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) announced the arrest of 47-year-old Marcus Reavenell in connection with a road rage shooting that occurred on May 14. Reavenell allegedly shot at a victim’s vehicle at the intersection of 58th and Foote Street NE after a traffic dispute, causing damage but no injuries. He was arrested in Maryland and charged with Assault with a Dangerous Weapon (Gun).

MPD Arrests Suspect in an Assualt in Northeast

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) announced the arrest of 28-year-old Juwan Russell, who allegedly shot at a man during a dispute on June 25 on the 1000 block of 16th Street, NE No injuries were reported, and Russell has been charged with Assault with a Dangerous Weapon (Gun).

Child Cruelty Suspect Now Faces Murder Charge

A child cruelty defendant was indicted on July 11 with an enhanced charge of first-degree premeditated murder with aggravating circumstances before DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman, in connection to the death of a five-year-old.

Deandre Pettus, 33, is charged with first-degree cruelty to children and first-degree murder with aggravating circumstances for his alleged involvement in the fatal beating of his five-year-old son, Deandre Pettus Jr. at the 4500 block of Connecticut Avenue, NW on Oct. 6, 2024.

The defendant pleaded not guilty and his attorney, Albert Amissah, asserted his constitutional rights, including to a speedy trial.

The prosecution mentioned there was no DNA testing required as there was no physical evidence recovered from the scene of the incident.

While no plea offer is currently on the record, the prosecution said discussions between the parties remain possible.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Nov. 14.

Missing Suspect Gets Bench Warrant

A non-fatal shooting defendant was issued a bench warrant after failing to show up for a status hearing on July 9 before DC Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur.

Donte Casson, 29, is charged with unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction, carrying a pistol without a license outside home or business, possession of an unregistered firearm, possession of a prohibited weapon, and unlawful possession of ammunition. The charges stem from his alleged involvement in a shooting that took place at the 1800 block of Good Hope Road SE on March 12, 2023.

Casson is currently serving time in another jurisdiction and failed to appear for his status hearing.

In March, Casson filed a motion for habeas corpus, which challenges the legality of his imprisonment. The prosecution opposed this, and it was eventually rejected by the court.

This is also Casson’s fourth bench warrant and fourth time he has failed to appear in court. Judge Arthur issued the no bond bench warrant to ensure Casson will brought to court for his next hearing and they can continue matters related to this case.

No further dates were set.

MPD Investigating I-295 Fatal Crash

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) announced an investigation into a fatal crash on I-295 on July 12. The incident involved a stolen 2017 Hyundai Sonata, resulting in the death of 16-year-old Rick Kearney. A 17-year-old alleged driver and 20-year-old Joseph Wade were arrested and charged with Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle, with the juvenile also facing charges for Leaving After Colliding.

Carjacking Ring Defendant Waives DNA Evidence Testing

A carjacking defendant waived his right to independently test DNA evidence before DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz on July 10.

Jaelen Jordan, 19, is charged with conspiracy, trafficking stolen property, four counts of unauthorized use of a vehicle, receiving stolen property worth $1,000 or more, two counts of armed carjacking, six counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, two counts of robbery while armed, armed carjacking of a senior citizen, and robbery while armed of a senior citizen.

The charges stem from his alleged involvement in a carjacking distribution ring between April and May of 2023 with six co-defendants. The group is believed to have partially conducted its operation out of an apartment’s parking garage on the 1300 block of Florida Avenue, NE.

During the status hearing, the prosecution told the court that one of the items in evidence contained some possible female DNA and did not seem to contain any of Jordan’s DNA. Judge Kravitz asked the prosecution whether that meant a unique DNA profile. However, the prosecution said he would wait for a DNA analyst to interpret the findings.

Jordan’s defense attorney, Brian McDaniel, informed the court of Jordan’s wish to waive DNA testing rights, which Judge Kravitz accepted.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene Sept. 26.

MPD Arrests Suspect in Southeast Shooting

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) announced the arrest of 22-year-old Xavier Anderson, of Northwest, DC, in connection with a shooting incident that occurred on Mar. 10 at the intersection of South Capitol Street and Southern Ave, SE. The incident involved an adult female who was shot and survived. Anderson was apprehended in Prince George’s County and charged with Unregistered Ammunition, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Receiving Stolen Property, and Assault With A Dangerous Weapon (Gun).

Mass Shooting Defendant Sentenced After Opening Fire at Gun Victim’s Vigil

DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman sentenced a mass shooting defendant who may have fired hundreds of rounds into a memorial ceremony to 12 years of incarceration as part of a plea deal in a July 3 proceeding.

On Feb. 28, Jason Dyer, 27, pleaded guilty to assault with intent to kill while armed for his involvement in a non-fatal shooting that injured four people, including Dyer, on April 7, 2024, at the intersection of Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue and Elmira Street, SW.

The prosecution argued for the sentence due to the severity of the incident, which, ironically, occurred during a candlelight vigil for a victim of gun violence, as well as the defendant’s criminal record.

Dyer’s attorney, Matthew Davies, requested that Judge Edelman stick with the plea agreement, emphasizing a trial would be long and difficult with no guarantee of a conviction.

Davies also requested that Dyer be sent to a prison with a medical facility to help treat his shattered knee and nerve damage he sustained during the shooting, according to Davies, who implied that Dyer has already been punished for his actions.

Judge Edelman responded, “The fact that he was shot does not reduce his responsibility.”

Dyer was sentenced to 12 years of incarceration and five years of supervised release after, during which he will be required to complete both a drug and mental health assessment.

Judge Edleman cited firing as many as 200 rounds at the gun memorial service in his reasoning for the sentence in addition to the fact that the defendant faced two major criminal charges before turning 30.

No further dates were set.

MPD Seeking Suspects in Southeast Shooting

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) announced they are seeking assistance in identifying suspects involved in an unlawful discharge of a firearm on July 12. Officers responded on the 1200 block of G Street SE, where evidence of gunfire was found, though no injuries were reported. Surveillance cameras captured images of the suspects.

Stabbing Defendant Gets Second Chance at Rehabilitation

DC Superior Court Judge Carmen McLean released a stabbing defendant on July 11 to undergo mental health treatment, essentially giving him a second chance to rebuild his life.

“Please take advantage of all the work these wonderful people have done for you,” Judge McLean said refrerring to an unlikely coalition of the prosecution, the defense and the victim in this case.

Gregory Edmonds, 34, was sentenced to 24 months of incarceration, suspended, and two years’ probation for assault with significant bodily injury. The charges stem from his involvement in the stabbing of his father on July 4, 2023 on the 2600 block of Martin Luther King Avenue, SE.

Based on Edmonds’ ongoing battles with mental illness and substance usage, as well as requests from his father, Edmonds faced no jail time. His sentence was instead focused on recovery, with both parties working with the Department of Rehabilitation and Development to create treatment plans for his release.

After failing to meet his initial requirements, Judge McLean revoked and resentenced Edmonds to repeat probation paired with a more robust treatment plan involving entry into a North Carolina mental health facility, where he and his family live. To monitor progress, the court set a follow-up hearing to validate compliance.

Judge McLean expressed her gratitude to both parties for their focus on rehabilitation, telling Edmonds the rest is up to him.

Parties are set to meet on Aug. 15.

‘It Doesn’t Just Take Away Life, It Also Robs Families of Simple Things,’ Victim’s Cousin Says at Sentencing

DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman sentenced a murder defendant to 16 years in prison on July 9.

On April 23, Tyriq Williams, 34, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder while armed, for his involvement in the fatal shooting of 20-year-old Terry Clark on Jan. 7, 2023 on the 1200 block of Half Street, SE.

Through the deal, parties agreed to a sentencing range of 14-to-18 years of imprisonment. Clark’s cousin and his mother. His cousin described that Clark had a “special gift for making people feel warmth and love.” Clark’s cousin explained that the loss of Clark has left a wound on the family that has followed them.

Clark’s mother and cousin presented victim impact statements in court, “It doesn’t just take away life, it also robs families of simple things like ice cream after dinner,” said his cousin.

Clark’s mother also came forward, asking the courtroom why her son died? There was no answer.

The prosecution described Clark as a happy, loving person who was killed in a senseless act of violence. They requested Judge Edelman impose 216 months of incarceration due to the serious nature of the offense and the lack of mitigating circumstances.

The prosecution claimed that Williams’ actions were not the result of undiagnosed PTSD, noting that he appeared calm and collected before and after the shooting.

Williams’ defense attorney, Kevin Mosley, expressed sympathy for Clark’s family. “No sentence will bring Terry back,” he stated, noting that, while Williams made a terrible choice, his own exposure to gun violence affected his response to Clark’s behavior.

Mosley claimed that Clark had been acting erratically the night of the incident, and Williams perceived his behavior as a threat. “The way you perceive things is impacted by your past trauma,” he said.

Williams offered his sincere apology to Clark’s family, saying “I’m very, very sorry for what I’ve done.”

The defense proposed Williams receive a sentence of 14 years, and as requested he will be sent to a facility within 180 miles from DC.

Judge Edelmann expressed his deep sympathy for Clark’s family. “I’ve learned, 15 years up here, regardless of sentence, I’m unable to bring someone back,” he said.

Williams graduated high school, had strong family support, and maintained employment, according to Judge Edelman. This was Williams’ first contact with the criminal justice system.

Judge Edelman sentenced the defendant to 192 months of confinement, followed by five years of supervised release. The judge required he seek mental health assessment and treatment during his incarceration. Williams will receive credit for time served.

No further dates have been set.

Judge Dismisses Homicide Case For Failed Indictment Deadline

DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan dismissed a shooting defendant’s case after denying the prosecution’s request for an indictment extension on July 10.

Darrion Blake, 28, was charged with first-degree murder while armed for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 44-year-old Denard Orlando Hartwell, which took place on Aug. 18, 2018, on the 4400 block of Livingston Road, SE.

Judge Ryan denied the prosecution’s request for an indictment extension of three weeks – the original indictment deadline was July 10. The prosecution requested an extension because the lead detective had just undergone back surgery and would not be able to testify before the grand jury until August.

However, Blake’s attorney, Errin Scialpi, argued that the homicide occurred in 2018, but Blake was not arrested until 2024. Scialpi also stated that keeping the case open impacts Blake’s career as he has been in home confinement for the past eight months. The prosecution had nine months to file the indictment, from the time the detective testified in October of 2024 until now.

In DC, most cases must be indicted within 90 days except for the most serious offenses.

Judge Ryan ultimately found that there was no cause to extend the indictment deadline and dismissed the case without prejudice, meaning it could be refiled based on prosecutorial discretion.

No further dates were set.

Stabbing Defendant Gets ‘Gift’ Sentence

A stabbing defendant was given a “gift” sentence before DC Superior Court Judge Robert Salerno on July 10.

On June 27, Leonard Hampton, 30, pleaded guilty to simple assault for his involvement in a stabbing that injured an individual on the 1700 block of Euclid Street, NW on Jan. 11.

Hampton reportedly stabbed the victim in response to an argument that had occurred between the victim and Hampton’s mother.

During the hearing, the prosecution urged Judge Salerno to impose a sentence of 180 days with credit for time served, recognizing the victim’s reluctance to press charges.

The prosecution stated that “180 days is a gift,” and emphasized the benefit of the plea deal, which significantly reduced Hampton’s potential sentence of 36-to-78 months. “Even if his intentions were good and he intended to defend his mother, this was not the way to do it,” the prosecutor said.

Hampton’s attorney, Justin Boggs, asked the judge to impose a time served sentence, allowing him to be released immediately. Boggs noted that Hampton had already served 168 days in jail and had completed more than 80 electronic programs during his incarceration. Boggs also highlighted that Hampton had been fully prepared to proceed to trial prior to accepting the plea deal.

Hampton addressed the court, saying, “I take full responsibility for my actions,” and expressed that he wished he had handled the situation differently.

Judge Salerno sentenced Hampton to 168 days of incarceration with credit for time served, stating there was “not a whole lot of difference” between that and the prosecution’s request of 180 days of incarceration.

No further dates were set.

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