Stabbing, Robbery Defendant Accepts Plea Deal

A stabbing defendant accepted a plea deal extended by prosecutors before DC Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur on Jan. 21.

Romel Sawyer, 39, was charged with assault with significant bodily injury while armed and armed robbery for his involvement in a robbery-turned-stabbing that injured one individual on Aug. 1, 2025 on the 6600 block of Georgia Avenue, NW .

During the hearing, Sawyers’ defense attorney, Kevin Roberston, alerted the court of Sawyer’s intent to accept a deal, which required him to plead guilty to his charges in exchange for the prosecution not seeking a more punitive indictment. Through the deal, the prosecution agreed to limit their sentencing request to the bottom of the guidelines, and will not oppose concurrent sentences.

According to the prosecution, had the case gone to trial, they would’ve proven beyond a reasonable doubt that Sawyer took a knife and stabbed the victim in the back, while demanding the victim’s backpack.

Sawyer threatened the victim, stating “I’ma kill you, give me the bag.” After the attack, Sawyer and another individual walked away with the victim’s backpack, which contained cash, a cellphone, and identification documents. The prosecutor claimed that Sawyer acted voluntarily with intent and not in self-defense.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on March 26.

Compliant Armed Carjacking Defendant Wants More Lenient Probation

An armed carjacking defendant asked to check in less with his probation officer during a probation show cause hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Judith Pipe on Jan. 29.

Anardo Little, 19, was sentenced on Dec. 12, 2025 to a fully suspended sentence in favor of 18 months probation for unauthorized use of a vehicle during a crime of violence and carrying a pistol without a license. The charges stem from his involvement in an armed carjacking at the intersection of 12th and H Streets, NE, on Oct. 14, 2024.

At a probation review hearing, Little’s defense attorney, Susan Ellis, said he had been “doing great” on supervision and was compliant. Little’s officer from the Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency (CSOSA) emphasized his compliance and said he checked in twice a week in person.

Ellis and Little’s other attorney, Morgan Crawford, requested that Little be required to check in less frequently because they said it interfered with his education. They suggested that some check-ins could be over the phone.

Little’s CSOSA officer said that this was the first time she had heard that the frequency of his check-ins were an issue. Judge Pipe asked parties to determine a solution amongst themselves, but said she was “happy” to issue an order if needed.

No further dates were set.

Jury Acquits Homicide Defendant of Retaliation Murder

A jury acquitted a murder defendant of all counts before DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz on Jan. 22.

Malik Seltzer, 30, also known as “Freak,” was charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction greater than a year. Seltzer was allegedly involved in the fatal shooting of 37-year-old Paris Odemns on the 4000 block of 1st Street, SE on Sept. 15, 2021.

After closing arguments, the panel returned the same day with a verdict of “not guilty,” acquitting Seltzer of all charges.

Throughout the trial, the prosecution argued Seltzer had committed the murder as revenge on behalf of a friend who was allegedly stabbed by Odemns.

The key witness, an acquaintance of Seltzer who was hanging out at the apartment Seltzer visited frequently the night of the incident, claimed Seltzer had identified Odemns as “the dude that stabbed [Seltzer’s friend].”

Seltzer allegedly mouthed “I’m gonna bag him,” before taking off with Odemns.

However, defense lawyer, Kevann Gardner noted the witness’ pending charges and detention under a bench warrant at the time of his initial interviews as undermining his credibility.

Throughout the trial, the defense criticized the investigation by the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and the prosecution’s alleged failure to deliver adequate evidence to prove Seltzer’s involvement.

The parties are scheduled to reconvene Feb. 13.

Prosecutors Dismiss Some Carjackers’ Charges After Hung Jury

Prosecutors alerted DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz of their intent to dismiss certain charges after a jury agreed on conspiracy but was deadlocked on some counts in a multi-defendant carjacking case on Jan. 30.

Byron Gillum, 20, Jaelen Jordan, 20, Isaiah Flowers, 20, Jahkai Goff, 21, Warren Montgomery, 20, Taj Giles, 20, and Irshaad Ellis-Bey, 20 were charged in a 19 count indictment connection to what prosecutors called an armed carjacking ring.

The crimes occurred on Feb. 27, 2023 at the intersection of 20th Street and Sunderland Place, NW, on April 27, 2023 at the intersection of K and 8th Streets, NE, and May 16, 2023 on the 600 block of Butternut Street, NW.

On Jan. 6, a jury alerted the parties they had reached a guilty verdict for conspiracy but not unable to reach a unanimous verdict for others. Judge Kravitz gave the prosecution time to decide how to move forward with the remaining counts.

During the hearing, the prosecutor requested dismissal for the counts the jury was unable to resolve. Judge Kravitz granted the motion without prejudice, meaning the prosecution can re-open the case at a later date if they wish. Flower’s defense attorney, Gretchen Franklin, initially objected, asking to dismiss the charges with prejudice, but later withdrew her objection.

The sentencing of the seven co-defendants was further delayed while the court awaits the results of Youth Rehabilitation Act (YRA) studies. These studies will determine each defendant’s eligibility to be sentenced under the YRA, which allows people under 25 who are convicted of certain crimes to have their convictions sealed if they successfully complete all sentencing requirements and potentially offers sentencing flexibility for the defendant.

Judge Kravitz emphasized that although the defendants are applying for the YRA consideration their eligibility is not guaranteed. If any of the defendants don’t meet the qualifications, they would face the standard sentencing guidelines.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on March 27.

Document: MPD Arrests Suspect in 8th Street Shooting

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) announced the arrest of 35-year-old Ashleigh Hale, alleged to be involved in a shooting incident on Dec. 28 on the 400 block of 8th Street, SE. The altercation began inside an establishment and escalated when Hale allegedly struck the victim with a pistol and later discharged the weapon, causing property damage. Hale was charged with Assault with a Dangerous Weapon (Gun).

Homicide Defendant Sentenced to 26 Years Imprisonment

DC Supreme Court Judge Rainey Brandt sentenced a homicide defendant to 26 years of imprisonment in a hearing on Jan. 29.

On Aug. 21, 2025, Walter Jenkins, 37, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder while armed and assault with a dangerous weapon for his involvement in the fatal shooting of 52-year-old David Williams, on Nov. 14, 2021 in the 2000 block of Bruce Place, SE. Two other individuals sustained injuries, but survived.

In a statement to the court, Williams’ niece said that Jenkins did not have to do this and that, “anybody who thinks this is okay is crazy.” According to the niece, their whole family has been suffering since Williams’ death. Williams’ mother has had a significant health decline since the incident, she stated, adding that every holiday and birthday is a reminder that Williams is not there.

Prosecutors played surveillance footage that depicted the incident to the court including Jenkins walking around the front of the car that Williams occupied. Jenkins briefly conversed with the passengers, before shooting at them and the car behind them. According to the prosecution, around 20 shots were fired.

Given the seriousness of the conduct and the long delayed plea agreement, the prosecution asked Judge Brandt to deliver justice in this case because, “Jenkins is sorry that this happened to him, but does not feel that he is wrong.”

Dominique Winters, Jenkins’ attorney, contended that Jenkins acted out of fear in the moments leading up to the shooting, and has been remorseful since the beginning. According to Winters, Jenkins himself had lost his little brother just months before Williams’ shooting, and he is regretful that he put another mother in that position. Winters argued that he should be held accountable for his actions but also shown mercy for the fact that he has shown remorse and that he wants to do better.

Judge Brandt considered the injuries sustained by the second victim, Williams’ niece’s impact statement, the video evidence of the crime, and a video sent into court by Jenkins’ family that was privately viewed by the judge.

Given the totality of the evidence, Judge Brandt sentenced WaJenkins to 26 years of confinement. She ordered him to register as a gun offender, and undergo mental health counseling.

No further dates were set.

Girlfriend of Fatal Shooting Victim Testifies in Jury Trial

At a jury trial on Jan. 29, DC Superior Court Judge Danya Dayson oversaw the testimony of six witnesses in a fatal shooting case, including that of the victim’s girlfriend who was present during the shooting.

Antonio Hawley, 22, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and carrying a pistol without a license for his alleged involvement in the Oct. 6, 2021 fatal shooting of Aaron Wiggins, 26, on the 400 block of 13th Street, SE, after a recreational football game.

Prosecutors called Hawley’s best friend’s former girlfriend to testify. The witness drove Hawley and her then-boyfriend to and from the football game on the evening of Oct. 6, 2021.

The witness testified that Hawley would often hang out at her apartment in the months leading up to the incident. Prosecutors presented a screenshot of an Instagram post said to be Hawley in the witness’ apartment holding a firearm and wearing a crossbody Champion bag.

The witness confirmed that she had seen Hawley and her then-boyfriend hold a gun with a green light many times. This gun was often accompanied by the Champion bag, which defense attorney, Albert Amissah, alleged belonged to her ex-boyfriend. The witness denied this, insisting it belonged to Hawley.

Wiggins’ girlfriend, who was on the field with Wiggins when he was shot, gave an emotional testimony recalling the incident.

“I’m not okay,” she said after being asked how Wiggins’ death has affected her.

The witness said that while everyone, including Wiggins, was collecting their belongings and preparing to leave the field, she heard multiple gunshots. She immediately ran to her boyfriend and called 911, at which point she believes the shooter left with the rest of his football team.

The prosecution played recordings from the witness’s initial police interview, in which she described the person she saw shooting. She said the shooter was wearing a black ski mask that covered his face and head. She also described the shooter as around age 18 and of average height and build.

The prosecution also called a Metropolitan Police Department’s (MPD) detective who, at the time of the crime, was an officer with the bike unit. The officer responded to gunshot sounds heard on the night of the incident, and at her time of arrival, Wiggins was unconscious with several people gathered around him, including an off-duty detective and a friend of the victim. The witness and other observers made efforts to treat Wiggins’ injuries, but ultimately were unable to do so.

The witness reported that many of the people gathered around the victim were in shock and unwilling to speak with her. According to the detective, a witness described the shooter as a light skinned Black male that looked 15-to-16-years-old, wearing a white tank top.

Prosecutors also called an officer MPD’s K9 Unit who responded to the scene on the night of the incident. Accompanied by another officer, the witness testified he did a thorough walk-through of the location and found a dark piece of clothing that contained a ghost gun– a firearm that does not have a traceable serial number. The prosecution presented photographic evidence showing the witness’ discovery of these items.

Another MPD officer testified that Hawley did not have a license to carry a firearm in DC, and the gun was unregistered.

After dismissing the jury, the defense argued for a motion of judgement of acquittal due to lack of evidence for a first-degree murder charge. Judge Dayson determined that the prosecution had met their burden of proof, that a reasonable jury could convict Hawley of the charges, and denied the motion.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on Feb. 2.

Judge Allows Prosecutor’s Expert to Evaluate Homicide Defendant’s State of Mind

During a hearing on Jan. 29, DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park granted the prosecution’s motion to conduct a mental health evaluation on the defendant. A defendant must be mentally competent enough to understand the charges he faces and be able to help his attorney before he can stand trial.

Christopher Patrick Haynes, 33, is charged first-degree premeditated murder while armed, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, assault with intent to kill while armed, three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, unlawful possession of a firearm by a convict, carrying a pistol without a license, and escaping from an officer for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of Brent Hayward, 33, on Aug. 12, 2023, on the 1500 block of Kenilworth Avenue, NE. A second individual sustained non-life threatening injuries.

Prosecutors requested another mental health evaluation of Haynes be performed by a doctor of their choice, in order to compare it to the defense expert’s report. Defense attorney Nikki Lotze requested that the prosecution’s doctor not ask questions about the charges against Haynes. She also requested she be present during the evaluation.

Prosecutors also requested to limit the defense’s expert witness from testifying about Haynes’ Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as a factor of self-defense.

Judge Park ordered that the expert witness may testify to PTSD’s involvement on Haynes’ perception of the incident, subjective evidence, but not the direct facts of the event or objective evidence.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene Feb. 3.

Judge Releases Carjacking Defendant to Home Confinement

DC Superior Court Judge Deborah Israel granted a carjacking defendant’s request for release to home confinement on Jan. 21.

Manuel Alvarado, 42, is charged with unarmed carjacking for his alleged involvement in an incident that occurred on the 1500 block of 7th Street, SE, on April 26, 2023.

According to court documents, the victim was driving his car when he spotted a man in the middle of the street rolling on the ground, seemingly unwell. The victim exited the car to offer help when the suspect jumped into the driver’s seat and drove the car away.

During the hearing, Judge Israel granted the defendant’s request for release to home confinement and ordered him to participate in a substance abuse disorder assessment.

Alvarado’s attorney, Quiana Harris, alerted the court of the defendant’s previous lack of housing that led to his noncompliance. As such, Judge Israel granted the defense’s request that Alvarado be placed at a family member’s house.

Parties are slated to reconvene March 20.

Non Fatal Shooting Defendant Claims He’s ‘Not an Animal’ After Pleading Guilty

A defiant shooting defendant accepted a plea deal on Jan. 29, before DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt.

Marcus Martin, 30, was originally charged with assault with intent to kill while armed, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction for his involvement in a non-fatal shooting that wounded one individual on the 4200 block of East Capitol Street, NE, on Jan. 11, 2024.

During the hearing, Quo Judkins, Martin’s attorney, alerted Judge Brandt of his intent to accept a plea deal from the prosecution, which required him to plead guilty to aggravated assault while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, in exchange for the prosecution dismissing all other charges.

After accepting the plea deal, Martin told Judge Brandt he’d be writing a letter to her for his sentencing, stating he wanted her to know he’s “not an animal.”

Parties are slated to reconvene May 21.

Judge Allows Some Firearms Testimony in Fatal Shooting Case

DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park ruled that some but not all testimony from a firearms’ expert would be admissible in a murder trial at a motions hearing on Jan. 22.

Dion Lee, 26, 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, and carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business. Rashod Dunbar, 26, is charged with accessory after the fact. The counts stem from their alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 54-year-old Pamela Thomas, on Feb. 9, 2022 on the 500 block of Division Avenue, NE.

At the request of Lee’s defense attorneys, Molly Bunke and Patrick Nowak, as well as Dunbar’s attorney, Carrie Weletz, Judge Park evaluated the qualifications of an expert witness the prosecution plans to call during their trial. Parties previously heard testimony from the specialist on Jan. 16, but Judge Park delayed his ruling and ultimately determined that the witness could testify, not about physics, but as a firearms expert.

Judge Park allowed the expert’s claim that a bullet’s speed could drastically decrease when it travels through a solid object, stating that it is a, “matter of basic physics.” In addition, the judge sanctioned the expert’s statement that when a bullet hits a hard surface, it could fragment, and injure someone.

Judge Park was skeptical that after a bullet exits an object, it could drop, instead of continuing its path. In addition, the judge did not agree with the expert’s claim that a fragmented bullet could cause a fatal injury. Judge Park said that those claims were not supported by research and based more on the expert’s experience and a set of assumptions. Therefore, he ruled they would not be admissible during his testimony at trial.

After a request from Weletz, Dunbar was removed from home confinement and Judge Park imposed a curfew instead. There was no opposition from the prosecution on this matter.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on Jan. 30.

Shooting Co-Defendants Request Modified Release Conditions

Shooting co-defendants asked DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park to change their release conditions during a hearing on Jan. 23.

Gerald Jones-Hall, 25, and Jonah Harris, 49, are charged with conspiracy, two counts of assault with intent to kill while armed, two counts of assault with intent to commit robbery while armed, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, robbery while armed, seven 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 pistol without a license outside a home or business.

The charges stem from their alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting that resulted from an attempted robbery on July 10, 2023 on the 1300 block of Good Hope Road, SE. Two victims sustained multiple gunshot wounds.

At the hearing, Jones-Hall’s attorney, Destiny Fullwood-Singh asked to end his curfew and remove hisGPS because she said the restrictions interfered with his job. Judge Park denied the request due to what he described as the defendant’s “spotty” record, but he extended Jones-Hall’s curfew to accommodate his work schedule.

The prosecution asked for confirmation of Jones-Hall’s work hours and Judge Park asked for verification at the next hearing.

Similarly, Harris’ attorney, Christen Philips, asked for Harris’ GPS to be removed and his curfew canceled due to his compliance with his release conditions. The prosecution did not object and Judge Park granted the request to end Harris’ curfew due to reports of high compliance, but required him to continue wearing the GPS tracker.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on Sept. 11.

Defendant Who Fatally Shot Service Dog Receives Fully Suspended Sentence

DC Superior Court Judge Judith Pipe suspended imprisonment for a defendant who shot a dog, during a sentencing on Jan. 23.

On Oct. 3, 2025, Durojaiye Mawuli, 56, pleaded guilty to unlawful discharge of a firearm, possession of an unregistered firearm, carrying a pistol without a license outside of a home/business, and destruction of property less than $1000 for his involvement in a shooting on the 1500 block of 17th street, SE on Nov. 24, 2024.

According to court documents, the victim was walking his service dogs when a black dog began attacking his dogs without provocation. Mawuli, identified as the owner of the black dog, attempted to break up the dog fight, to no avail, before discharging a firearm at one of the victim’s dogs, killing it.

During the prosecution’s recommendation for sentencing, the prosecutor said Mawuli “created this situation and made it worse by having a gun he shouldn’t have.”

Mawuli’s defense attorney, Erica Arensman, remarked that this was an extremely sad situation. She reiterated from her sentencing proposal letter that Mawuli was terrified for his dog and made a choice he deeply regretted. He has since reflected deeply on the situation and accepted responsibility, according to Arensman.

“This one moment, this bad choice,” Arensman said, “is not a reflection of his actions going forward.” Additionally, “he is not a violent person. He is deeply regretful, and he is going to have to live with this for the rest of his life.”

Arensman also emphasized that Mawuli is a full-time caretaker for his partner and works full-time to provide for his family. Mawuli is already in touch with mental health services and will work to get better, Arensman claimed.

While sentencing Mawuli, Judge Pipe said, “This is an extremely tragic situation.” She sentenced him to 12 months for carrying a pistol without a license outside a home/business and unlawful discharge of a firearm, as well as 180 days for destruction of property under $1000 and possession of an unregistered firearm. The sentences will run concurrently, with all time suspended.

Mawuli must comply with drug testing and treatment as recommended by the Court Services & Offender Supervision Agency (CSOSA) and register as a gun offender.

No further court dates were set.

Triple-Murder Defendant in Car Crash Complains of Ailments, Remains Jailed

DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz denied a homicide defendant’s motion to dismiss or release on Jan. 23, as she advocated for medical attention.

Nakita Walker, 46, is charged with three counts of second-degree murder, fleeing a law enforcement officer, and assault with a dangerous weapon for her alleged involvement in a car accident on March 15, 2023 that killed Mohamed Kamara, 43, Jonathan Alberto Cabrera Mendez, 23, and Olvin Josue Torres Velasquez, 22, on Rock Creek Parkway.

Judge Kravitz asked Walker if she wanted the prosecution to conduct further DNA testing on the driver’s side airbags and other objects in the car.

Under the the Innocence Protection Act (IPA), a defendant has the right to re-test evidence for DNA. Walker waived that right.

Judge Kravitz denied the defense’s motion to dismiss, filed by defense attorney, Albert Amissah. In the motion, Amissah claimed that the prosecution destroyed the urine and blood samples obtained from Walker at the time of her arrest, arguing the action violated Walker’s right to due process.

Amissah further argued there was bad faith in the destruction of evidence because the blood-alcohol levels in the samples are so pivotal to this case. He said that officers, paramedics, and pedestrians said that Walker did not appear impaired.

Judge Kravitz ruled that the urine and blood samples were not destroyed in bad faith and were part of the standard retention procedure, denying the motion to dismiss the indictment.

The judge also denied the defense’s request for release because of Walker’s failure to comply with probation in the past, long history of DUI charges, and the incredibly serious and dangerous charges in the current case.

Amissah said that Walker has not received physical therapy in jail and has significant injuries sustained during the incident that need medical attention.

Judge Kravitz asked Amissah to email him specifics of the issues that are ailing Walker.

Walker said that a doctor recently looked at her injuries and put in an order for therapy but hasn’t seen a physical therapist yet. She said that she is in a lot of pain and can barely walk due to a broken upper leg and other bones damaged from the car accident. Walker has been contacting the American Disability Association (ADA) for help but they have not answered.

Again, Judge Kravitz said that he cannot email the Department of Corrections (DOC) without a detailed list of issues. He said that this is not a proper basis for release.

Amissah alerted the court of Walker’s intent to reject a plea offer from the prosecution, though the terms were not discussed in court.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Feb. 20.

Defendant Requests New Counsel After Judge Finally Deems Him Mentally Competent

DC Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz deemed a defendant mentally competent to stand trial on Jan. 23 after receiving a conclusive report from the Department of Behavioral Health (DBH).

Mario Kirksey, 36, 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 firearm during a crime of violence, and unauthorized use of a vehicle. The charges stem from his alleged involvement in a shooting on the 1300 block of Okie Street, NE on Feb. 28, 2024. One individual sustained injuries during the incident.

At the hearing, Judge Kravitz alerted the parties of the report from DBH which deemed Kirksey competent to stand trial, ending a five month-long debate on Kirksey’s competency. In order to stand trial a defendant must be mentally competent enough to understand the charges against him and help his attorney.

His defense attorney, Terrence Austin, said that Kirksey asked for a replacement attorney. Austin said that Kirksey felt Austin had ulterior motives and lied to him. The defendant also told Austin that he wanted a lawyer outside of the Public Defender Service (PDS).

Kirksey spoke directly to Judge Kravitz saying nobody acknowledges his concerns and he is being forced into a guilty situation when he’s innocent.

Judge Kravitz reminded the defense that Kirksey requested different counsel in August of 2025, but then decided to keep Austin. He also told the defendant that he should have a lawyer that he feels is fighting for him, and recommended that he accept a lawyer within PDS because they have many capable individuals to take on his case.

Judge Kravitz asked Austin how long he would need to find a new lawyer for Kirksey. Austin estimated about a week.

Kirksey asked Judge Kravitz if Austin had demanded a speedy trial. The judge said that he was sure that Austin did so.

The prosecutor said that he wants to share new evidence and reopen a plea offer to the incoming attorney. The terms of the deal were not discussed in court.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Feb. 13.

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