‘I Miss The Version Of Myself I Was Before I Lost Him,’ Says Victim’s Mother at Sentencing

DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park sentenced a homicide defendant to 24 years following emotional impact statements from the victim’s family on Aug. 15.

Nyjell Outler, 22, was convicted by a jury on March 18 of voluntary manslaughter while armed, aggravated assault while armed, and two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his involvement in the fatal shooting of 21-year-old Demetris Johnson on March 20, 2021 on the unit block of Madison Street, NE at a gender reveal party.

“[Outler] was carrying an AK-style rifle (known as a “Draco”) in a backpack. He was at the party for a little more than a half hour before the shooting,” according to an Aug. 18 release from the US Attorney’s Office.

The incident also left a surviving victim with gunshot wounds to both legs. All charges face an aggravating factor of being committed during Outler’s release for another matter.

The sentencing attracted a crowd to the courtroom, with family members of both Outler and Johnson present, in addition to at least nine US Marshals and courtroom security personnel–an increased security presence prompted by a fight among courtroom visitors during the trial.

Prosecutors requested Outler serve 35 total years of incarceration–15 years for voluntary manslaughter, 10 for aggravated assault, seven years for each possession charge to run concurrent with each other, and three years for offenses committed during release.

“This is the person you’re sentencing today,” said prosecutors and urged Judge Park to consider Outler’s actions surrounding the incident when imposing sentence. They elaborated that seven weeks before the shooting, Outler was arrested for carrying an AK-47 styled rifle, the same type of gun that killed Johnson. Prosecutors also noted that Outler disappeared for 11 months after the homicide until US Marshals found him in Florida. At one point Outler was listed as one of the agency’s 15 most wanted suspects.

Outler, according to prosecutors, had five notable infractions during his time at the DC Jail, including a sexual assault with video evidence. They also claimed Outler stabbed someone at the jail days prior to his sentencing.

Johnson’s family members provided emotional statements to the court, all requesting the maximum sentence. “When you go to a baby shower you pack your gifts, you don’t pack your gun,” expressed Johnson’s grandmother.

“This kind of pain breaks you in ways that don’t heal…I miss the version of myself I was before I lost him,” said Johnson’s mother through tears. “He was my why…the source of my strength,” she continued.

“Let him grow old in prison,” said Johnson’s mother and asked Judge Park to “protect other families from this pain.” She also emphasized she felt Outler “showed no remorse…smiling in court.”

Prosecutors concluded, “What [Outler] does is assault and kill people…he’s a danger to society.”

Gemma Stevens, Outler’s attorney, disputed prosecutors’ characterization of Outler “as the villain in this story” and said “Outler is more than the worst thing he has ever done.” Stevens requested Judge Park impose a sentence at the bottom of the guidelines.

Stevens said Outler carries a “very heavy burden” and “feels deep remorse about what happened.” Regarding Outler’s infractions in jail, Stevens claimed he’s been targeted at the jail because of this case.

Outler’s mother spoke on his behalf and asked Judge Park to “give him a chance to learn from his mistakes and be a better person.”

Through tears, Outler apologized to Johnson’s family and said “I want to take full accountability for bringing a gun.” At a loss, Outler concluded “There’s no words I can say today.”

First, Judge Park addressed the Youth Rehabilitation Act (YRA), which allows people under 25 who are convicted of certain crimes to have their convictions sealed or cleared after they successfully complete their sentence and potentially offers sentencing flexibility for the defendant.

Despite Outler’s young age of 18 at the time of the incident, his family’s support, and this as his first adult conviction, Judge Park denied the application of the YRA due to Outler’s problematic compliance at the jail and the seriousness of the offense.

Judge Park continued a sentence at the bottom of the guidelines would not reflect the severity of the crime. He noted that Outler was on supervised release for possessing the same type of weapon used during the murder.

Judge Park sentenced Outler to 150 months for voluntary manslaughter with 30 added months for offenses committed during release, concurrent with 114 months for the possession charge. Additionally, 84 months for aggravated assault with 24 added months for offenses committed during release, concurrent with 108 months for the possession charge.

Outler received a total sentence of 24 years of incarceration with five years of supervised release. He will also be required to register as a gun offender in DC upon his release.

No further dates were set.

Judge Denies a Murder Defendant’s Motion to Exclude Identification Testimony

DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt denied a motion to exclude the identification testimony from someone who knew a murder defendant intimately during a hearing on Aug. 19.

Walter Jenkins, 36, is charged with first-degree murder while armed, two counts of assault with intent to kill while armed, three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction greater than a year, and carrying a rifle or shotgun outside a home or business. These charges stem from his alleged involvement in the death of David Williams, 52, on the 2000 block of Bruce Place, SE, on Nov. 14, 2021. The incident also left a surviving victim with multiple gunshot wounds to their legs.

During the hearing, Judge Brandt heard defense attorneys, Hannah Claudio and Dominique Winters’, motion to exclude one of the prosecution’s witnesses from testifying about Jenkins’ identification. The prosecution said they planned to call the mother of Jenkins’ three children to the stand who could identify herself and Jenkins in a surveillance video of them entering a car before the incident.

Claudio argued that it would be unnecessary as the jury can make the determination themselves. She stated the jury can make the inference based on the photo in the warrant and other evidence that shows Jenkins’ physical features.

Prosecutors rebutted the claim stating that the identification of Jenkins in the video would be of high value to the jury as the surveillance video does not clearly show his face. In addition, since the witness had a relationship with Jenkins, her ID would be credible.

Ultimately, Judge Brandt denied Jenkins’ motion to exclude this witness’ testimony stating it is of evidentiary value.

Judge Brandt then heard arguments regarding Jenkins’ motion to suppress cell phone data. Claudio claimed the prosecution needed to establish specific proof in the phone that supported a warrant to collect that information.

The prosecution argued that they did not need specific text messages or information but just probable cause in order to retrieve the Jenkins’ cell phone data. They stated it is common for people to make connections and communications with their phone when committing a crime. The prosecution also added that they were not searching the data of the entire phone and there were limitations on the warrant’s scope

Judge Brandt also heard arguments on another motion regarding cell site data from Jenkins’ phone which the defense said was overly broad. Cell site data could determine Jenkins’ approximate location based on the information analyzed from signal relay towers.

Claudio stated that there was no information in the warrant that the time frame of cell site data would apply to Jenkins. Further, the warrant would violate Jenkins’ privacy as it could reveal his whereabouts. Claudio also argued that it was not reasonable for the officer to collect cell site data since the warrant didn’t specifically mention it.

In response, the prosecution argued that there was strong evidence of Jenkins’ alleged involvement in the stabbing to support collecting the data. They stated that Jenkins’ likely had his phone on him and the data would show if he was in the vicinity at the time of the crime.

The prosecution then claimed that their request of a 10 day time period of Jenkins’ cell site data is not a violation of privacy as they only want a slice of time related to the crime. The prosecution also stated that it was reasonable for the officer to search the cell site data as he was just acting based on what was written and signed in the warrant.

Judge Brandt decided to rule on the two motions in the coming days.

Parties are slated to reconvene for the jury trial on Aug. 25.

Judge Questions Suspect’s Mental State in Family Fast Food Shooting Melee

DC Superior Court Judge Eric Glover granted new counsel and ordered a mental competency exam for a shooting suspect who reportedly became incensed over a fast food order in an Aug. 15 hearing.

Jaquan Proctor, 22, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in shooting at his brother on the 5500 block of Illinois Avenue, NW on July 30.

According to court documents, Proctor initially became upset after his brother, along with the mother of Proctor’s baby, brought a McDonald’s food order back to their house. Proctor was said to be a regular visitor to see his child.

Proctor complained the food order was incorrect and became increasingly agitated. The police report says Proctor and his brother began cursing at each other and Proctor hit his brother in the face. At which point, Proctor reputedly said, “I’m going to get my gun!” According to the police account, Proctor went to a bedroom and returned with a Glock-like handgun.

Then Proctor’s baby mother tried to intervene yelling, “Our daughter is here!” The victim retreated to a bedroom where he and Proctor struggled over control of the gun. During the melee, Proctor allegedly fired a shot into the bedroom door and fled. No one was injured.

Proctor was later identified as the suspect in a police photo.

During the preliminary hearing, Proctor’s lawyer, Atiq Ahmed, informed the court Proctor requested a new lawyer because he wanted someone younger who could understand him.

Despite Judge Glover’s admonition not to speak, Proctor insisted Ahmed did not understand the facts of his case.

Judge Glover accepted the request and informed Proctor he would get him new counsel. In addition, he also ordered a mental competency exam for the defendant.

As such, the judge delayed Proctor’s preliminary hearing until his new attorney is appointed and parties receive the competency evaluation results. Proctor can’t stand trial unless he understands the accusations and is able to work with his lawyer.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Aug. 21 for a mental observation hearing and ascertainment of counsel.

‘I Think You Should Get Life,’ Says Murder Victim’s Mother After Defendant Pleads Guilty

DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman let a grieving mother say a few words after a homicide defendant accepted a plea deal on Aug. 14.

De’Andre Sams, 29, was originally charged with first-degree felony murder while armed, assault with attempt to kill while armed, attempted robbery while armed, conspiracy while armed, and three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence. The charges stem from his involvement in the fatal shooting of 32-year-old Matthew Miller during an attempted robbery on Sept. 6, 2023, on the 200 block of M Street, SW. Two other individuals were injured during the incident.

Raymond Mathis, 38, and Keshawn Lavender, 24, are also charged for their alleged involvement in the incident. Judge Edelman granted defense motions to sever Sams from his two co-defendants on July 23 because Mathis and Lavender indicated they intend to call Sams as a witness during their trial.

During the hearing, Sams’ attorneys, Jessica Willis and Diana Yu, informed Judge Edelman that Sams accepted a plea deal extended by prosecutors.

Sams pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter while armed, an offense that carries a potential maximum of 30 years of imprisonment. However, in exchange for Sams’ guilty plea, prosecutors agreed to a sentence ranging from eight-and-a-half to 13 years. Prosecutors also agreed to dismiss Sams’ remaining charges.

After Miller’s mother heard Sams accept the plea deal and the agreed upon sentence length, she waa upset. Judge Edelman let her express her dissatisfaction to Sams saying, “You should get life because you took his life.”

Miller’s mother said her son was a hard working man and did not deserve to die the way he did.

She ended her statement by saying “I am not in a forgiving mood right now and I don’t think I ever will be, but I think you should get life.”

Parties are slated to reconvene for sentencing on Oct. 17.

Prosecution Revokes Shooting Suspect’s Plea Offer

On Aug. 18, the prosecution revoked their plea offer to a shooting defendant before DC Superior Court Judge Eric Glover.

Robert Toney, 42, is charged with endangerment with a firearm in a public place for his alleged involvement in a shooting that occurred on the 2400 block of Elvans Road SE on July 20.

According to court documents, Toney allegedly approached a fence line carrying a rifle and fired two rounds. There was no one injured in the incident.

During the hearing, the prosecution alerted defense attorney Gregg Baron their offer would be revoked if Toney did not waive his right to a preliminary hearing. The deal would have required Toney to plead guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm and in exchange, the prosecution would not indict him on other charges or enhancements.

In that light, Baron requested more time to look over the evidence and plea offer, noting that the prosecution provided the plea offer and discovery evidence less than 24 hours before the hearing. Baron said the short notice created legal and ethical issues.

However, the prosecution stated they would revoke the plea offer if Baron’s request for more time was granted.

Despite the plea offer’s being revoked, Baron’s continuance was granted by Judge Glover.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Aug. 28.

Jury Reaches Guilty Verdict in Murder Trial

The jury found a murder defendant guilty of all charges before DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan on Aug. 15.

Jajuan Gripper, 22, is charged with conspiracy, first-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business for his involvement in the death of 34-year-old Rynell Bradford. The incident occurred on the 1500 block of Anacostia Avenue, NE on Dec. 20, 2022.

According to an Aug. 15 release from the US Attorney’s Office, “After a brief exchange of words, Gripper and his [undisclosed] co-conspirators opened fire on Bradford as he ran away from them down a public street in the residential neighborhood. Gripper and his co-conspirators fired a total of at least 19 shots, striking Bradford once in the back of the head, killing him.”

During the trial, which began on Aug. 5, prosecutors argued that the murder was retaliation after Bradford took a gun from Gripper. Prosecutors said Gripper took a life over property, but Bradford did not deserve to die for that.

Gripper’s attorney, Wole Falodun called Gripper to the stand but the prosecution asserted that Gripper lied under oath in desperation.

Faldoun argued that Gripper acted in self-defense and took responsibility for shooting Bradford but had to protect his own life. Gripper testified that Bradford pointed a gun at him before he fired in self-defense.

Following less than two days of deliberations, a jury returned a guilty verdict and convicted Gripper of all charges.

Parties are slated to reconvene for sentencing on Oct. 17.

Non-Fatal Shooter of 20 Rounds Pleads Guilty, Judge Suspends Sentence

A shooting defendant pleaded guilty before DC Superior Court Judge Jennifer Di Toro and received a 60 day suspended sentence on Aug. 18.

Davon Camper, 26, was originally charged with the unlawful discharge of a firearm for an incident that happened on the 4000 block of 4th Street, NW on July 5 in which approximately 20 shots were fired.

At the hearing, defense attorney Janai Reed informed the court that Camper accepted a plea deal from prosecutors.

Camper pleaded guilty to attempted unlawful discharge of a firearm. In exchange, the prosecution dropped any greater and remaining charges that could be presented in a grand jury indictment.

Following Camper’s guilty plea, parties proceeded with sentencing. The prosecution aknoweledged that Camper had taken responsibility for his actions, but they still requested a sentence of 60 days of incarceration since the incident was serious.

Reed asked the court not to impose jail time. She noted that Camper pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge and that he has a steady job to help support his child.

Reed also contended that the incident was “not a malicious intent nor the character or personality” of the defendant.

Judge Di Toro sentenced Camper to 60 days with all time suspended. Camper was also put on supervised probation for six months and required to register as a gun offender in DC.

No further dates were set.

Judge Dismisses Carjacking Count But Finds Probable Cause For Burglary

DC Superior Court Judge Eric Glover dismissed a carjacking charge but continued to hold a defendant for first-degree burglary during a preliminary hearing on Aug. 13.

Edwin Holmes, 31, was originally charged with unarmed carjacking and first-degree burglary for his alleged involvement in two separate incidents on July 7 on the 800 block of Chesapeake Street, SE.

During the preliminary hearing of the evidence, prosecutors called a Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officer to testify who responded to both incidents.

The officer said the victim of the first incident was giving a ride to her family when she quickly stopped by her house but then heard screaming from a passenger who had stayed inside the vehicle. The victim told the officer that she found the suspect in the driver’s seat of the car trying to figure out how to change the gears. The suspect reportedly ran across the street, where he entered Prince George’s County, Maryland but was beyond DC’s jurisdiction.

The MPD officer said he also responded to an unlawful entry of a home call later the same day. The victim told the officer they had been locked out of their home and the suspect was reportedly found in the backyard drinking a Coke and lounging in a chair. The officer said the victim claimed that the suspect cursed at them before locking them out of their own home. No injuries were reported and nothing was stolen from the victim’s residence.

According to court documents, MPD officers recognized Holmes as the suspect from the earlier offense during his arrest for unlawful entry.

During cross-examination, Holmes’ attorney Camille Wagner said there was insufficient evidence to prove the first incident was a carjacking. Wagner explained there was no evidence of violence or force in this case, and that the suspect was truly never in possession of the vehicle.

The prosecution disputed Wagner’s argument and said that two people had to remove Holmes from the car. They said the facts of the case match elements of a carjacking, including “sudden or stealthy seizure.”

Ultimately, Judge Glover ruled that the evidence and officer’s testimony did not meet the test of a carjacking in that, “The immediate and actual possession of the car is unclear.”

Judge Glover did not find probable cause that Holmes committed a carjacking.

However, the judge ruled there was probable cause for first-degree burglary. Judge Glover explained the nature of the offense was troubling in combination with the defendant’s criminal history. Holmes remained held in the case despite Wagner’s request for his release.

Judge Glover then ruled to dismiss the carjacking charge at the request of the defense.

Parties are slated to reconvene Aug. 25.

Judge Orders Mental Competency Screening For Shooting Defendant

DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz granted a defense counsel’s request for a mental competency evaluation of a non-fatal shooting defendant during a hearing on Aug. 19. Before standing trial a defendant must be mentally competent enough to understand the charges against him and help his lawyer mount a defense.

Mario Kirksey, 35, is charged with assault with intent to kill while armed, assault with significant bodily injury while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and one of unauthorized use of a vehicle. This is in connection to his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting that took place at the 1300 block of Okie Street NE on Feb. 28, 2024.

According to the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) website, Kirksey allegedly demanded property from the victim, but the victim refused and attempted to run away, when Kirksey reportedly shot him.

During the hearing, Kirksey’s attorney, Terrence Austin, asked Judge Kravitz to order a preliminary forensic screening to determine Kirksey’s competency. Austin said he made the request based on his interactions with Kirksey. No objections were made and the evaluation was granted.

Austin also put on the record that he was currently looking for new defense counsel to represent Kirksey, but did not elaborate on why.

Parties are slated to reconvene Aug. 25 for a mental observation hearing.

Shooting Co-Defendants Plead Not Guilty at Arraignment

Two co-defendants accused of a shooting that left a victim in critical condition pleaded not guilty during an arraignment before DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park on Aug. 15.

Vance McIlwain, 33, and Kenneth Johnson, 32, are charged with assault with intent to kill while armed, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, endangerment with a firearm in a public place, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business, possession of an unregistered firearm, and unlawful possession of ammunition. Johnson is additionally charged with unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction greater than a year.

The charges stem from their alleged involvement in a shooting on Nov. 8, 2024 on the 700 block of Chesapeake Street, SE that injured one individual. The victim was transported to Howard University Hospital in critical but stable condition and suffered from five gunshot wounds–one to his chest, two to his abdomen, one to his left arm, and one to his right ear.

According to court documents, McIlwain is the alleged shooter while Johnson is accused of aiding and abetting the offense.

At the arraignment, McIlwain’s attorney, Lisbeth Sapirstein, and Johnson’s attorney, Matthew Davies informed Judge Park of both defendants’ intention to plead not guilty to all charges and asserted their rights to a speedy trial.

Parties scheduled a trial for November 2026. However, Sapirstein indicated that McIlwain does not expect the case to go to trial, despite there being no current plea offer. The prosecution said they will extend a plea offer for the defendants to consider before the next hearing.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on Sept. 30.

Judge Condemns Shooting as an ‘American Nightmare’ in Sentencing

DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt sentenced a shooting defendant to 13 years concurrently for what she described as actions that caused what most would consider a nightmare on Aug. 15.

Santos Duarte, 25, pleaded guilty on April 24 to aggravated assault knowingly while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and carrying a pistol without a license outside of home or business. The charges stem from his involvement in a non-fatal shooting that occurred on July 5, 2024, at a restaurant and bar on the 3500 block of 14th Street NW. One victim, the restaurant owner, suffered a gunshot wound to the leg.

The prosecution requested that Duarte receive a combined sentence of 15 years of confinement with five years of supervised release. They played CCTV footage of the restaurant shooting for Judge Brandt restricted to the bench since young children were in the courtroom.

Prosecutors stated that the video “spoke for itself” and expressed concern that, despite accidentally shooting himself in the groin area, Duarte chose to re-enter the building and continue shooting.

Duarte previously stated he felt trapped, but prosecutors argued that, based on the facts, the claim was not credible. Although Duarte does not have an extensive criminal history, prosecutors emphasized the violent nature of this charge and as well as a previous conviction.

Defense attorney Camille Wagner requested Duarte be sentenced to nine years of confinement with credit for time served and for the judge to consider imposing the Youth Rehabilitation Act (YRA).

The YRA allows those younger than 25 convicted of certain crimes to have their convictions sealed or cleared if they successfully complete their sentence. The measure also gives the judge flexibility in sentencing.

Wagner argued that on the night of the shooting, Duarte felt mentally trapped. Duarte has admitted to having substance abuse issues and was under the influence that night. He was shot, angry, and emotional, but he understands that re-entering the restaurant was wrong, asserted Wagner.

Wagner described her client as a “family man” who is heartbroken for his own family and the victim. She stated, “We don’t judge someone for what could happen, only what did,” and noted that thankfully no one was fatally injured and the victim has fully recovered.

Wagner urged Judge Brandt to consider every factor while sentencing Duarte and referenced another case of a defendant sentenced to seve-and-a-half years for killing their best friend. She highlighted Duarte’s artistic talent and aspiration to become a tattoo artist.

In a letter read by Wagner, Duarte apologized to his community, stating he “turned it into a war zone.” He thanked his family for their continued support and apologized to the court and prosecutors for his behavior.

Despite stage fright, Duarte spoke briefly after the letter was read, once again apologizing and stating, “I’m standing here before you to accept my consequences.”

Judge Brandt commended Duarte for his dedication and effort to use DC Jail resources positively, though she noted one disciplinary infraction.

She explained that comparing cases is a slippery slope because each case is unique and assessed differently. She ultimately denied Duarte sentencing under the YRA due to the disciplinary infraction, risk of re-arrest, and the recommendation that he complete both substance abuse and anger management treatment.

Wagner argued that the disciplinary infraction, making prison wine, reflects Duarte’s substance abuse issues. Judge Brandt stated there were other reasons detailed in the jail report that she would not discuss to protect Duarte’s privacy.

Judge Brandt described the shooting as similar to an active shooter situation, saying for most people it would be an “American nightmare” to hear gunshots while eating out with friends. She added that, as perverse as it sounds, she was thankful the shooting was targeted and not random.

Judge Brandt ultimately sentenced Duarte to eight years of confinement for aggravated assault knowingly while armed, concurrent with a five year sentence for possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and five years of confinement for assault with a dangerous weapon, concurrent with one year for carrying a pistol without a license outside of home or business.

Duarte was sentenced to a total of 13 years of incarceration with five years of supervised release. He will also be required to complete substance abuse and anger management programs and register as a gun offender in DC upon his release.

No further dates were set.

‘Domestic Violence Doesn’t Happen Overnight,’ Says Judge Allowing Past Incident Reports

DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt ruled that prosecutors could introduce evidence of a defendant’s past crimes in a domestic violence related stabbing case during a motions hearing on Aug. 15.

James Callen, 41, is charged with assault with intent to kill while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, assault with significant bodily injury while armed, and four counts of felony contempt. The charges stem from his alleged involvement in a domestic violence related non-fatal stabbing that injured one person on July 13, 2024 on the 1600 block of Morris Road, SE.

The contempt charges are in connection to Callen’s alleged violation of the court’s stay-away order by calling the victim four separate times. All charges face an aggravating factor of allegedly being committed during Callen’s release for another matter.

Prior to the hearing, the prosecution filed a motion to present evidence of Callen’s prior crimes during the trial. The evidence prosecutors want to introduce is allegedly past instances of domestic violence against the same victim in this case. Defense attorney Alvin Thomas opposed the request and argued the evidence was irrelevant to the current trial because it occurred months before Callen’s arrest and shared no similarity with the current case.

Thomas asserted that allowing the evidence would unfairly imply, “[Callen’s] done this on other occasions so he’s done it on this occasion.” According to Thomas, no police reports exist regarding the earlier allegations of domestic violence, and prosecutors would rely solely on accounts from the victim and her mother.

Prosecutors argued that the Court of Appeals has consistently ruled prior assaultive behavior relevant in such cases.

The prosecution pointed to two past incidents in which police were called by the victim and noted that one incident generated a formal report, which they already shared with the defense. They added that they were uncertain whether body-worn camera footage of the past crimes exists, but if located, it would be turned over to the defense.

Judge Brand ruled that Callen’s prior instances of domestic abuse could be admitted into evidence to demonstrate motive and intent. “Domestic violence doesn’t happen overnight,” emphasized Judge Brandt.

The judge added that to prevent unfair bias, jurors would receive specific instructions on how to evaluate each charge and the evidence presented.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on Aug. 22.

Shooter Sentenced to 180 Months For ‘Night of Terror’ Killing

DC Superior Court Judge Danya Dayson sentenced a confessed murder defendant to 180 months, amounting to 15 years in prison, during a hearing on Aug. 15.

Bobby Gupton pleaded guilty to second-degree murder while armed. He and co-defendant James Outland, both 27, had originally committed to a wired plea, meaning both would have to agree to the terms for the deal to be valid.

However, Outland has since asked to withdraw his plea, which the prosecution argued should logically have delayed Gupton’s sentencing. However, Gupton’s lawyers filed a counter-motion.

“The government’s request contradicts the plea agreement’s language. A plea agreement is a contract,” argued the motion.

Though Outland’s case is pending, Judge Dayson agreed and proceeded with Gupton’s sentencing.

Both defendants were charged with the fatal shooting of 54-year-old Tavonayna Glenn on June 28, 2023, on the 700 block of 19th Street, NE. However, the prosecutor painted a much darker picture of what could have happened.

She described the shooting in which some 30 rounds were fired indiscriminately as “horrific.”

“This transformed what should have been a pleasant summer night into a night of terror,” she said.

In reiterating what the prosecutor described as a very strong case, she presented footage of a street scene in which terrified pedestrians were seen fleeing for their lives as the shooters raced down the block with guns blazing.

“We could have been faced with 30 decedents that night,” said the prosecutor. Further, she noted that Gupton was arrested the following day with a different gun than the one used in the murder.

Given the severity of the crime, the prosecutor requested a sentence of 24 years at the top of the DC guidelines.

“The only person he has to blame for this is himself,” said the prosecutor of Gupton’s actions.

Gupton’s attorney, Gregory Lipper, said his client acknowledged the seriousness of his offense but made the right decision to plead guilty and has not wavered. Lipper told the court that despite the murder, Gupton is “more than that.”

He cited Gupton’s commitment to his children and diabetic mother, all the while taking on a demanding job at an Amazon warehouse. Meanwhile, Lipper pointed out that Gupton had a troubled family life with an absent father.

Growing up, Gupton struggled with a learning disability and a speech impediment that hindered his academic performance. Further, he has untreated mental disorders, including ADHD.

While incarcerated, Gupton has taken academic and practical courses at the DC Jail.

“I’d like to apologize for my actions. I’d like to apologize to the victim’s family as well,” Gupton told the court. No victim impact statements were presented during the proceeding.

In passing sentence, Judge Dayson credited Gupton for taking responsibility but said had the case gone to trial with a conviction the sentence could have been much stiffer.

“This type of offense is particularly concerning because it puts so many people at risk,” she said.

For the charge of second-degree murder while armed, she sentenced Gupton to 180 months jail time with five years supervised release. In addition, he must register as a gun offender and pay $100 to the Victims of Violent Crime Fund.

He will be credited for time already served.

Outland’s motion to withdraw will be heard on Oct. 10.

Jail Stabbing Defendant’s Case Dismissed

DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman granted a jail stabbing defendant’s motion to dismiss his case during a hearing on Aug.14. Still, the prosecution may not be over.

Travis Haney, 37, was originally charged with assault with intent to kill while armed for his alleged involvement in a stabbing that occurred at the DC Jail on the 1900 block of D Street, SE on Sept. 14, 2024. One person was injured.

Charges were originally brought against Haney on Sept. 26, 2024, and the nine-month deadline to indict has since passed. An indictment is a formal accusation by a grand jury indicating there’s enough evidence to go to trial.

Judge Edelman granted prosecutors a 30-day extension of the indictment deadline on July 11.

During the hearing, the prosecutor requested additional time to issue an indictment, amounting to an 11-month span since the charges were originally filed.

As a result, defense attorney Carrie Weletz motioned dismissal with prejudice, meaning the prosecution cannot retry the case.

Judge Edelman denied the request to dismiss with prejudice meaning the case can be reopened by prosecutors in the future.

No further dates were set.

Murder Defendant Pleads Not Guilty at Arraignment, Trial Pushed to 2027

A homicide defendant pleaded not guilty and asserted his right to a jury trial during an arraignment before DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park on Aug. 15.

Tyquan Jennings, 26, is charged with second-degree murder while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and carrying a pistol without a license. The charges stem from his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 19-year-old Vonte Martin and injury of a second victim on Aug. 19, 2024 on the 3000 block of Stanton Road, SE. Martin sustained two gunshot wounds to his left arm and one to his chest. The second victim suffered from a gunshot wound to the right shin.

During the hearing, Jennings’ attorney, Eliza Buergenthal, informed the court of Jennings’ intent to plead not guilty to all charges and asserted his right to a speedy trial.

Due to scheduling conflicts among prosecutors, defense attorneys, and the court calendar, parties scheduled the jury trial for April 5, 2027. Judge Park expressed hope to advance the trial date if there are opportunities.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on Sept. 25.

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