Lawyers For National Guard Shooting Suspect Claim Lack of Evidence

Lawyers for Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, the accused killer of a National Guard soldier and grievous wounding of another trooper, filed a motion on Dec. 16 to compel prosecutors to provide evidence to back up their claims that the crime was a “targeted attack” and an “ambush.”

“Despite these characterizations, the government has proffered no motive evidence for the charged offenses. Instead, all the known evidence of Mr. Lakanwal’s allegiances show his solidarity with U.S. military personnel,” says the motion filed by his defense team Edward Ungvarsky and Jessica Willis.

Recovering from injuries sustained in what authorities describe as a brazen, broad daylight attack on two National Guard members Lakanwal, pleaded innocent through an Arabic interpreter in a brief court appearance on Dec. 2.

One soldier, Sarah Beckstrom, 20, died from gunfire. A 24-year-old, the male guardsman is still recovering from the shooting on Nov. 26 near the Farragut West Metro stop blocks from the White House They had been deployed from West Virginia to DC in response to President Trump’s declaration of a “crime emergency” in the city.

The proceeding before DC Superior Court Magistrate Judge Renee Raymond was conducted virtually so Lakanwal could attend from his hospital bed. The bearded suspect is charged in the District with first-degree murder, assault with intent to kill, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence after driving to DC from Washington State, prosecutors say, with murderous intent .

Enhanced federal charges from the Department of Justice are likely, including a death penalty count but no confirmation from the U.S. Attorney’s Office in DC as of Dec. 11.

According to the DC police affidavit, the victims were engaged in a conversation with another soldier that was abruptly punctuated by gunfire, then, “Beckstrom and [the other victim] fall to the ground while [the other soldier] simultaneously seeing the defendant…shooting a gun and screaming, ‘Allahu Akbar.’–Arabic for “God is great.”

At that point, the Guardman responded with his service weapon. “During the subsequent gunfight, the defendant was shot and fell to the ground.” Both of his victims were unresponsive, says the report. They were shot in the head.

Prior to the shooting, surveillance video from several nearby locations show an individual identified as Lakanwal near the Metro stop when he starts running “with his hands raised in a firing stance.”

According to US Attorney Jeanine Pirro, Lakanwal, an Afghan, entered the United States under [former President] Biden’s Operation Allies Welcome, a program to assist those who helped the U.S. Military before its “disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan.”

It has been widely reported that Lakanwal was granted asylum in April by the Trump administration.

“Our nation’s capital should not be and must not be a place where evil comes to commit violence whatever their cause or motive should be,” said Pirro at a news conference on Nov. 27.

Lakanwal’s lawyers objected that he was not charged within the 72 legal requirement. However, given that Lakanwal seemed dimly aware of the hearing, and was barely able to communicate five days after the incident from his hospital bed, Judge Raymond disregarded the argument.

Further the defense claimed it could rebut the prosumption that Lakanwal posed a danger to the community because he had no prior criminal record and that he could be safely released pending trial.

However, in her ruling there was sufficient probable cause for Lakwanwal to be detained, Judge Raymond described the magnitude of the incident and “its innate terror.

The next hearing in the case is set for Jan. 2.

Prosecutors Argue Defendant ‘Patiently And Diligently Hunted Down’ Murder Victim

The prosecution argued a defendant hunted down the victim during closing arguments in a murder trial before DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt on Dec. 10.

George Sutton, 46, is 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. The charges stem from his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 34-year-old John Coleman on May 1, 2023 on the 2000 block of M Street, NE. Coleman suffered from three gunshot wounds to his neck, knee, and thigh.

Sutton’s attorney, Steven Kirsh, called Coleman’s mother to testify about a conversation she overheard two days before her son’s murder. She testified that she was at home with her window open when she heard her son arguing with a man outside, during which the man threatened to kill Coleman.

Coleman’s mother told prosecutors during cross-examination that she did not see anyone outside other than her son and the other individual who she described as an associate of his. The prosecution confirmed Coleman’s mother had no knowledge of her son’s murder other than the evidence presented at trial.

Kiersh rested the defense case and the prosecution recalled the lead Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) detective for their rebuttal case. The detective said during his investigation, Coleman’s mother told him the name of the man she heard threaten him. However, the detective said the man was not a suspect because the investigation focused on the gold sedan the shots originated from and there was no evidence that connected him to a gold vehicle.

The prosecution also introduced video evidence of the man on a bike at 12:40 p. m. the day of the murder at the intersection of 18th and M Streets, NE. Kiersh confirmed with the detective during cross-examination that the man’s bike traveled towards the crime scene. The detective clarified that he biked towards the crime scene after the shots were fired.

After the prosecution concluded their rebuttal case, parties presented closing arguments.

The prosecutors asserted Sutton had “a gun, a car, and the vengeance to see it through,” but did not anticipate the “unbiased, hard data.” They claimed video footage, cell phone data, and an eyewitness incriminated Sutton.

The eyewitness described a gold sedan and a bike when she heard shots and saw the victim on the ground, recounted the prosecution. They added that the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) investigated her description and determined through a license plate reader that the vehicle was registered to Sutton at Quarles Street.

Through video footage, the prosecution detailed the path they alleged Sutton took in his gold Infiniti, beginning at 11:47 a. m. on 21st Street, NE, when Coleman threw an object at his car. According to prosecutors, Sutton then drove to his home on Quarles Street, NE, where he remained for about eleven minutes, before returning to the “exact location where John Coleman dared to throw something at his car.” Prosecutors claimed Sutton drove around the neighborhood multiple times searching for Coleman before he fatally shot him at 12:26 p. m.

The prosecution argued cell phone data corroborated the video. “The timing works perfectly,” stated the prosecutor.

The prosecution added that during an interview with MPD, Sutton identified himself in the initial video footage of Coleman throwing an object at his car. “The defendant’s admission is the cherry on top of this case,” said prosecutors but argued Sutton did “olympic sized backflips” to later change his story.

“Coleman was biking, listening to music, and headed to his death,” said prosecutors, while Sutton “patiently and diligently hunted down Coleman and killed him.”

The prosecution asked the jury to convict Sutton for “the calculated ambush that ended Coleman’s life on that quiet neighborhood curbside.”

In defense closing, Kiersh reminded the jury their recollection of evidence should control the verdict. He said evidence and facts cannot be invented to fit a theory and the prosecutors had the burden.

“There are many doubts,” said Kiersh and noted the prosecution’s case lacked DNA, firearm, fingerprint, and identification evidence. Kiersh emphasized that no witness testimony said Sutton murdered Coleman.

“The car is not on trial,” Kiersh accused the prosecutors of merging the defendant with the vehicle. “We have proven that’s the defendant’s gold sedan,” prosecutors later asserted during their rebuttal argument.

Kiersh told the jury that Sutton lived in the area and therefore it was not unusual for him to be there. Prosecutors disputed this claim, arguing Sutton did not live in the neighborhood and had no legitimate reason to be circling it.

Kiersh also pointed to Coleman’s mother’s testimony as evidence of a reasonable possibility someone else murdered him.

Finally, Kiersh asked the jury to “make this a fair fight” and return a verdict of not guilty for Sutton.

Parties will reconvene when the jury reaches a verdict.

Co-Defendants in an Armed Robbery Murder Case Plead Not Guilty at Arraignment

Two co-defendants accused of fatally shooting a victim during a robbery attempt pleaded not guilty during an arraignment before DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park on Dec. 17.

Antoin Whitehead, 24, and Damari Brown, 23, are charged with conspiracy, first-degree felony murder while armed, attempt to commit robbery while armed, and two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for their alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 35-year-old Henry Crutchfield on May 27 on the 1600 block of 14th Street, NW, in front of Barcelona Wine Bar. Crutchfield suffered from a single gunshot wound to his chest.

According to court documents, Whitehead and Brown allegedly committed the murder during a robbery attempt. Crutchfield died next to his white Chevrolet Corvette wearing a flashy watch, bracelet, necklace, and earrings. A forensic investigator from the DC Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (OCME) reportedly recognized Crutchfield as someone who worked with the OCME.

At the hearing, the court arraigned the defendants on the indictment charges against them. Whitehead’s attorney, Elizabeth Weller, and Brown’s attorney, Madalyn Harvey, entered a plea of not guilty on behalf of their clients and asserted their right to a speedy trial.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene for a detention hearing on Feb. 20.

Parties Present Conflicting Stories Shared in Carjacking Trial

Parties delivered opening statements and two carjacking victims testified before a jury in DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan’s courtroom on Dec. 16.

Jerrell Smith, 33, is charged with armed carjacking, assault with a dangerous weapon, threaten to injure or kidnap a person, and carrying a dangerous weapon, for his alleged involvement in a carjacking on June 7, 2023 at the intersection of South Capitol Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE. One individual sustained injuries during the incident.

In their opening statements, prosecutors claimed that Smith, who was allegedly armed with a knife, carjacked his cousin and her boyfriend while riding in the car.

According to the prosecution, the cousin’s boyfriend was driving the group to pick someone up, when they arrived at the intersection where the incident occurred. Smith, who they claimed was in the back seat of the car, allegedly put a knife to the victim’s neck, cutting his finger, and carjacked the vehicle. The prosecution insisted once he was able to get his cousin’s boyfriend out of the driver’s seat and the cousin had gotten out of the passenger seat, Smith climbed over the center console, got in the driver’s seat and left the scene with his cousin’s vehicle.

“There were no arguments. Nothing’s happening,” the prosecutor said, stating the victims would testify that there were no disagreements between the group leading up to the carjacking.

However, Emma Mlyennic, Smith’s attorney, disagreed. “What do you do when you find yourself in the middle of an aggressive argument that you’re not part of? You get away from it,” Mlyennic said, stating that’s what Smith did.

Mlyennic argued that the complainants were the passengers of the vehicle which Smith was driving, and got into an argument that spilled into the street when they reached the incident location. “He drove off to get out of it,” Mlyennic said.

“Jerrell Smith is not guilty,” Mlyennic insisted, stating that he pulled over when they were arguing, asked her cousin to get back in the car, and when she refused he drove off.

According to Mlyennic, the complainants were upset that he left them stranded, and gave the police a story that blamed Smith. Mlyennic argued the cousin’s boyfriend was on probation in Maryland at the time of the incident, and wanted to avoid getting in trouble, which would violate his conditions.

“An innocent man is on trial for a crime he did not commit,” Mlyennic insisted. She argued that Smith had ample opportunities throughout the day to carjack his cousin, who he previously reached out for a place to stay, but didn’t do it.

Mlyennic stated Smith did not try to abandon or sell the car, and instead parked at a shopping center near a police station.

“Why on earth would you drive yourself to a police station if you committed an armed carjacking?” Mlyennic said.

“The story the complainants are giving you is not true,” she insisted.

Prosecutors called on Smith’s cousin, who claimed she was riding in the passenger seat when the incident occurred.

According to Smith’s cousin, Smith called her earlier in the day to ask for a place to stay, and she agreed to let him stay at her apartment. She picked him up from Southern Avenue Metro Station in the early afternoon and had him hang out with her and her boyfriend until she had to go to work.

After work, she agreed to pick him up from an undisclosed location and drove home. Her boyfriend’s sister asked them to pick her up, and they asked Smith if he wanted to join.

On their drive to get her boyfriend’s sister, the cousin stated, the three were listening to music and just riding along. At the intersection, she testified, Smith tried to slice or stab her boyfriend from the back seat. “He had a blade towards his neck,” she recalled.

She testified she panicked, and ordered Smith to stop, before jumping out of the passenger seat. She testified that the car started to go backwards down a hill and knocked her over. Once she got up, she saw her boyfriend running down the street and Smith in the driver’s seat.

She stated she had her best friend track her vehicle, which was located at the Eastover Shopping Center in Oxon Hill, MD, and did not call 911 until a while later.

“My first thing was to get off the street,” when questioned why she hadn’t immediately called 911.

Likewise, Smith’s cousin’s then-boyfriend was called to testify. He stated he had met Smith once before the day of the incident, and had never had any problems with him.

According to the witness, they hung out together and watched TV while his girlfriend was working. Once she returned from work, with Smith, they agreed to go pick his friend’s sister up — which is conflicting with his then-girlfriend’s testimony.

Smith decided to ride along with them, according to the witness, and everything was fine until they reached the intersection where the incident occurred.

According to the witness, he felt a hand pull his forehead back into the driver’s seat’s head rest, and a knife to his neck. In an attempt to prevent an injury to the throat, the witness testified he put his hand between his neck and the knife, causing a laceration to his middle finger that needed six stitches.

He stated that he and the defendant ensued in a struggle, during which he was dragged from the driver’s seat to the back of the car. He claimed he exited the vehicle through the back passenger door, and saw the car drive away as he ran away from the scene.

He testified he didn’t call 911 because he didn’t have his phone.

Hannah Claudio, Smith’s other attorney, questioned the witness’ credibility, stating that he switched the story up to benefit himself in order to not get in trouble with his probation in Maryland.

Claudio questioned his statement to his probation officer, which noted he told her a stranger approached the car with a knife and carjacked him. “I definitely didn’t tell her that,” the witness insisted.

Claudio also highlighted that the witness had been arrested by US Marshals on Dec. 13, and a DC Judge told him if he didn’t show up to testify in trial he would be arrested.

In redirect, the witness assured prosecutors his testimony was truthful.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Dec. 17.

Shooting Suspect Pleads Guilty to Firearms Violation

In a brief hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman on Dec. 15, Keanu Scott, 26, pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm with a previous conviction.

The defendant was originally charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and assault with intent to kill in connection to a non-fatal shooting on the 800 block of Dahlia Street, NW on Aug. 21.

Judge Edelman explained that by accepting the plea Scott would be giving up his right to a jury trial, as well as to test any DNA evidence in the case. Further, he would not be able to appeal if he were convicted.

In return, the prosecution agreed to waive filing an indictment or bring any greater charges against Scott.

As Judge Edelman reviewed the terms of the plea agreement, Scott affirmed that he understood the document and accepted the disposition of the case. He is represented by Michelle Lockard who told the court that Scott was also willing to forgo a preliminary hearing of the evidence against him.

If the case had gone to trial, the prosecution would have been able to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Scott illegally possessed a firearm despite a previous firearm conviction in 2015.

“I do accept Mr. Scott’s guilty plea,” said Judge Edelman.

The judge said the maximum penalty for the charge is 15 years in prison and a fine of $37,500. Nonetheless, Edelman noted that the mandatory minimum for the crime is three years imprisonment. Further, Scott could be required to pay up to $5,000 to the Victims of Violent Crimes Fund and must register as a gun offender whenon released.

Sentencing in the case is set for Feb. 13

Defendant Accepts Plea Deal for Fatal Stabbing, Despite Family’s Objections

A homicide defendant accepted a plea deal on Dec. 12 before DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan.

Frank Rooks, 56, also known as Frank Flythe, was originally charged with second-degree murder while armed for his involvement in the fatal stabbing of 31-year-old Vance Contee on Nov. 16, 2024 on the 4000 block of Kansas Avenue, NW.

In what was supposed to be a preliminary hearing, Rooks accepted a deal extended by prosecutors, which required him to plead guilty to voluntary manslaughter in exchange for the prosecution not seeking an indictment.

Through the deal, parties agreed to a sentence of eight years of incarceration.

According to the prosecution, had the case gone to trial, they would have proven beyond a reasonable doubt that on the day of the incident, Rooks and Contee were inside an apartment with a group of people who accused Contee of stealing drugs.

In an ensuring argument as Contee attempted to leave, Rooks pushed Contee and a fight occurred. Rooks stabbed Contee twice, fatally wounding him in the chest. Rooks fled the scene and did not act in self-defense or with legal justification, according to the prosecutor.

Contee’s family disapproved of the plea deal, insisting that Contee’s “life mattered,” adding that his book titled I am Alive for a Reason “stands as written proof of his growth, his accountability and his belief in redemption.”

Contee’s sister told Judge Ryan, “A plea deal that reduces killing to manslaughter, and eight years of confinement, sends a message that the permanent taking of life, a life of service, mentorship and love can be minimalized for convenience.”

“Justice is merely a resolution, it must reflect truth, proportionality and public safety,” Contee’s sister continued.

Despite the pleadings, Judge Ryan conditionally approved the plea deal.

Parties are slated to reconvene March 6 for sentencing.

Defense Challenges Accuracy of Phone Location Data in Murder Case

DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt allowed testimony from a cellular analysis expert during a murder trial despite defense concerns of reliability on Dec. 9.

Steven Kiersh, Sutton’s attorney, challenged the reliability of an expert witness the prosecution planned to call to testify during the trial. Judge Brandt held a Daubert hearing, without the jury present, to determine the admissibility of the expert’s testimony.

At the Daubert hearing, the cellular expert testified–an FBI special agent with the Cellular Analysis Survey Team (CAST). The agent said he used timing advance evidence data, a type of digital forensics evidence provided by cellular networks.

According to the agent, timing advance was not created for law enforcement to use, but for phone carriers to improve users’ experience. The agent explained that cell towers emit radio frequency to estimate how far a phone is from the tower.

The agent said he received T-Mobile records from the lead detective in the case, reviewed the data, and used software to create a map. Then, the agent ensured the records aligned with the tower list generated by T-Mobile. Finally, his report was peer reviewed to ensure accuracy.

Judge Brandt asked how the agent determined the tower list was reliable and the agent said the list updated when changes occurred and he contacted T-Mobile if he had concerns.

According to the agent, the data was reliable because cell networks relied on the information. Additionally, he said the FBI recovered people based on their last known connection to a cell tower. The agent said the FBI first used timing advance in 2009 to locate a missing child in Maryland and since then, law enforcement and the military frequently used the methodology.

The method was limited, said the agent, because the data generated an arc with a device’s possible location but could not determine a specific location on the arc. However, overlapping arcs created more precision.

The agent testified during cross-examination by Kiersh that he was involved in the case since early August 2023, but did not know the number of towers in the area he reviewed. The agent told Kiersh he did not inquire if any changes in tower coverage occurred in the three months between the incident and his involvement.

Kiersh asked if a drive test was conducted during the investigation, when someone is on foot with a radio scanner measuring the strength of the closest tower. The agent said there was no drive test in the case because the timing advance method was superior and provided narrower results.

The agent told Kiersh there was no rate of error for timing advance because the measurement occurred with network activity. Kiersh asked if the method was perfect and the agent said not perfect but one of the best tools. The agent acknowledged a lack of human knowledge or understanding of the data and method could result in errors.

After the agent testified, the prosecution argued they met the Daubert standard to qualify the agent’s expert as reliable. They said the agent received the records from the detective, reviewed them for abnormalities, and there was a peer review of his report.

Kiersh disputed the reliability of the agent and said “I found his testimony troubling.” Kiersh argued the agent unilaterally decided to not conduct a drive test or determine if there were any changes in the cell towers. Kiersh asserted a drive test was the “gold standard” of CAST and the report did not indicate timing advance superseded the method.

Additionally, Kiersh claimed there was a lack of specificity in the method and no rate of error which he asserted an expert was required to establish. The prosecution responded that the rate of error was encompassed in the science itself with the arc of possible locations.

Judge Brandt found the prosecutors satisfied Daubert and allowed the agent to testify as a cellular analysis expert before the jury. The judge said both parties’ arguments ignored a key aspect of the agent’s testimony, that timing advance must be reliable or the networks would fail.

Kiersh then argued to exclude the agent’s testimony because it would be more prejudicial than probative. Judge Brandt denied Kiersh’s request because there was nothing substantially prejudicial and it added to the identity of who prosecutor’s claim drove the suspect vehicle.

After explaining his qualifications to the jury, the agent testified about his report on cell tower data collected in this case.

The prosecutors highlighted two addresses on various maps of cell tower connections. The first location was the address of the shooting, and the second location was labeled as “other.” The agent testified that was the only classification he was given and he was not aware of any relevance to the case.

The first map showed tower connections to a phone prosecutors previously tied to Sutton before noon on the day of the shooting. Two towers near the incident address were highlighted with arcs of possible locations of the phone.

A zoomed in view was displayed of the tower closest to the incident with overlapping arcs less than a block away from the incident.

The prosecution also showed a call record chart of Sutton’s phone and mentioned numbers he contacted around the time of the incident, but did not specify who they belonged to.

The agent noted there was a gap in cell tower data between 11:50 a. m. and 12 p. m. He said that while phones were always searching and connecting to towers, the providers do not always store everything.

Another page from the agent’s report was displayed with several new towers further away from the incident but near the “other” address, showing movement of the device.

A final map was displayed, with more than ten towers highlighted. The agent added a few arcs on the map to show the phone’s movement. The agent concluded the only way the phone could connect to all the towers in the time frame presented would be with a motor vehicle.

During cross-examination, Kiersh asked about the limitations of this type of data. The agent clarified that it was not an exact science, even with timing advance increasing accuracy. The arcs on the maps are a range of where the phone could be and the agent’s report noted “possible location” in his explanation.

The agent further clarified that phones don’t always connect to the closest tower if a further one offers a stronger connection. He concluded that, while cell tower data can’t pinpoint where a phone and its owner are, it can eliminate places it can’t be and suggest possible locations for it.

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) lead detective for the case also resumed his testimony with cross-examination from Kiersh. Although the detective did not collect the shell casings from the scene, he confirmed the .45 and 9mm caliber casings could not originate from the same firearm without modification.

The detective confirmed that throughout his interview at the police station, Sutton maintained he did not murder Coleman.

The prosecution also called a litigation technology specialist with the United States Attorney Office (USAO) to testify about a video compilation he created for the case. The prosecutors played the eight minute long video of a car icon moving through a map with surveillance cameras showing the car at various locations.

The trial is scheduled to resume on Dec. 10.

Detectives Discuss Shooter’s Identification, Physical Evidence at Trial

Multiple detectives testified regarding a shooting investigation in a trial before DC Superior Court Judge Jason Park on Dec. 10.

Nikia Cunningham, 31, and Bernard Vance, 31, are charged with robbery while armed, five counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, possession of an unregistered firearm, unlawful possession of a firearm, second degree cruelty to children, carrying a pistol without a license outside a home/business, and unlawful possession of ammunition. This stems from their alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting on the 300 block of Franklin Street, NE, on March 28, 2023. One individual sustained gunshot wounds during the incident.

Cunningham is additionally charged with aggravated assault knowingly while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, and possession of an unregistered firearm, as prosecutors claim she was the shooter.

Vance is additionally charged with another count of carrying a pistol without a license outside a home/business and tampering with physical evidence.

The lead detective for the case was called to testify, stating that he responded to the scene after the first responders, and knew he was responding to a shooting incident.

According to the detective, a witness identified the male suspect as “Slugga Bernard,” who he also called Tavyon Simms, during a confirmation photo identification, telling officers he had met Vance eight years prior, when they were both unhoused individuals.

“Him and his wife robbed, stole and shot my roommate,” the witness wrote on the identification document. He also identified Cunningham as the other suspect through a photo array, where he stated the sixth individual was the shooter. The image in spot six for the procedure was Cunningham, according to the detective.

“She shot my friend while she had her baby in her hands,” the witness wrote on the paperwork.

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

Another Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) detective testified that he located a black Mercedes in a parking garage on the 1500 block of Harris Thomas Way, NE, after the victim identified it as the suspect vehicle.

Body-worn camera footage showed the vehicle with a still-warm engine and temporary Maryland tags. The detective said officers found a blanket inside a trash can containing two guns. The blanket and firearms were entered into evidence. On cross-examination, the detective testified he did not see who drove or exited the vehicle.

Another MPD detective testified that surveillance footage captured a suspect discarding firearms. He also responded to a barricade situation on the 1500 block of Harris Thomas Way, NE, reportedly involving the defendants and a child who was later taken into protective services.

Investigators executed a search warrant on the defendants’ residence, where they says they recovered mail addressed to both defendants and their child, firearm accessories, and a firearm stock. Photographs and body-worn camera stills from the search were admitted.

An MPD patrol officer testified that when she arrived at the scene, the victim was bent over on the ground while a witness was “extremely frantic and distraught.” Body-worn camera footage showed the witness screaming that the victim had been “shot in the face” and that the suspects fled in a “black Benz.” The officer said the witness appeared to be under the influence of drugs and repeatedly claimed the suspects had “two guns.” A Glock case was recovered inside the apartment, with serial number BUPG496, which matched a gun recovered from the trash can in the lobby of the defendants’ apartment.

During the hearing, defense counsel moved for a mistrial after expressing concern that some jurors may have seen the defendants in restraints. Judge Park individually questioned all 16 jurors, each of whom reported seeing nothing prejudicial. The motion was denied.

Parties are slated to reconvene Dec. 11.

Domestic Stabbing Defendant Conditionally Released

DC Superior Court Judge Robert Hildum released a defendant accused of a domestic violence related stabbing after she waived her right to a preliminary hearing on Nov. 25.

Bianca Osborn, 35, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and assault with significant bodily injury for her alleged involvement in a non-fatal stabbing on Nov. 21 on the 1100 block of Dahlia Street, NW. The victim sustained two lacerations to his hand and lip.

According to court documents, Osborn and the victim were reportedly in a relationship for about five years and had a child together. The day of the incident, Osborn allegedly accused the victim of cheating on her, punched him, then stabbed him with a knife.

At the hearing, Peter Odom, Osborn’s attorney, informed parties his client intended to waive her right to a preliminary hearing, which would have determined if probable cause existed for the charges against her. Judge Hildum accepted Odom’s waiver as knowing and voluntary, and parties presented arguments regarding Osborn’s release pending trial.

Odom requested Judge Hildum release Osborn as she was the primary caregiver for her three young children, earned her high school diploma, was steadily employed since she graduated, and had no prior convictions. Additionally, Odom noted the significant family support Osborn had in the courtroom.

The prosecutor requested Osborn remain detained at the DC Jail. They described the incident as “gruesome” because of the long laceration to the victim’s hand that bled heavily and required treatment at Howard University Hospital.

If released, the prosecutor requested Judge Hildum require Osborn to stay-away from the victim and incident address. Odom opposed the prosecutor’s request because Osborn was the leaseholder and resided at the incident address.

Odom claimed Osborn financially provided for the victim and he lived at her apartment when the incident occurred. Osborn was on the lease, not the victim, and she should not be required to stay-away from her apartment, asserted Odom.

Although Judge Hildum described the case as “extremely distressing” with strong evidence against Osborn, he determined there were conditions of her release that could ensure the safety of the community. The judge based his decision on the circumstances described by Odom.

Judge Hildum released Osborn on her own personal recognizance but required she stay-away from the victim and not contact him under any circumstances. The judge also ordered a mental health assessment for Osborn and asked her to comply with any recommendations from the Pretrial Services Agency (PSA).

Parties are scheduled to reconvene on Jan. 27, 2026 before DC Superior Court Judge Deborah Israel.

Carjackers Sentenced to 48 Months in Prison

DC Superior Court Judge Jennifer Di Toro sentenced two co-defendants under the Youth Rehabilitation Act (YRA) on Nov. 21, and amended one’s sentence on Dec. 9.

On Aug. 19, Kendall Joiner, 21, and Daniel Aligbasia, 19, pleaded guilty to robbery and possession of a firearm for their involvement in a carjacking on May 30, 2024 on the 2000 block of Savannah Street, SE.

According to court documents, the victim reported that Aligbasia asked him for a ride and, once they reached the victim’s vehicle, displayed a firearm, demanded the victim’s phone while Joiner allegedly approached the vehicle and threatened the victim, before getting in. The defendants drove away from the scene.

On Nov. 21, the prosecution argued that both defendants posed risks to the community. For Joiner, prosecutors said he has reoffended on multiple occasions and recommended a 48-month sentence.

For Aligbasia, prosecutors noted he committed the offense while on probation in a previous case and opposed sentencing him under the YRA, which allows a young defendant’s conviction to be sealed if they successfully complete all sentencing requirements.

During the hearing, Joiner’s attorney, Sellano Simmons, emphasized that the encounter lasted approximately 20 minutes and was not premeditated. Simmons highlighted Joiner’s remorse and plans to enroll in trade school.

In a statement to the court, Joiner explained he experienced significant losses following his arrest, including the death of his father four days after he was taken into custody. He said he missed the funeral, his son’s first birthday, and the birth of his daughter, adding that he has been participating in programs focused on self-growth.

Aligbasia’s defense counsel, Jamison Koehler, asked the court to impose a YRA sentence, emphasizing his apology, remorse, and willingness to participate in treatment. Koehler argued that Aligbasia is capable of rehabilitation and would benefit from the YRA’s structure.

Judge Di Toro sentenced both defendants under the YRA.

Aligbasia was sentenced to 24 months for robbery and 48 months for possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, to run concurrently. His sentence includes five years of supervised release, 100 hours of community service, and credit for time served.

Joiner originally received a sentence of 36 months of confinement, followed by five years of supervised release, and community service. Prosecutors noted that a separate pending felony case will be dismissed under the plea agreement.

However, the prosecution later alerted the judge that the sentence imposed for Joiner went against their 11c1c plea deal, which is a binding deal that requires the judge to sentence a defendant to a specific sentence or within a sentencing range.

The prosecution argued that the 36 month sentence for Joiner went against their agreement, because Judge Di Toro had imposed a sentence that was lower than the minimum requirement based on Joiner’s criminal history score.

During the Dec. 9 hearing, Simmons argued that because Judge Di Toro sentenced Joiner under the YRA, she could deviate from the sentencing guidelines. However, the prosecution disagreed.

Judge Di Toro stated that the 11c1c rule prevailed to the court, and she amended Joiner’s sentence to be 48 months.

No further court dates were set.

Defendant Accepts Plea Deal for Stabbing With Folding Knife

A defendant accepted a plea deal for stabbing a victim with a folding knife before DC Superior Court Judge Jennifer Di Toro on Dec. 8.

Dennis Christie, 49, was originally charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and assault with intent to commit robbery while armed for his involvement in a non-fatal stabbing on April 22, 2024 on the 4800 block of F Street, SE. The victim suffered a stab wound to his abdomen.

Lauckland Nicholas, Christie’s attorney, informed Judge Di Toro that Christie accepted a deal from the prosecution, which required him to plead guilty to assault with significant bodily injury and possession of a prohibited weapon. The prosecutor, in exchange, dismissed any greater and remaining charges and would not seek an indictment regarding the facts of the case.

The prosecutor said if the case proceeded to trial, they would have proved Christie knew the victim from prior interactions and approached him on the street on the day of the incident. They engaged in a verbal argument, Christie retrieved a folding knife from his pocket, stabbed the victim, and ran away. There was no legal justification for Christie’s actions and he was aware of the risk of significant bodily harm he caused.

According to the prosecutor, Christie stabbed the victim in the muscle surrounding his rib cage which required surgery and overnight hospital care.

Judge Di Toro determined there was a factual basis and accepted the plea as knowing and voluntary.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene for sentencing on Feb. 19, 2026.

Lead Homicide Detective Case Testifies in Trial

The lead detective for a homicide case testified about evidence collected during the defendant’s trial before DC Superior Court Rainey Brandt on Dec. 8.

George Sutton, 46, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and unlawful possession of a firearm for his alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of 34-year-old John Coleman in the 2000 block of M Street, NE, on May 1, 2023.

Prosecutors called the lead Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) detective on this case who stated that ten shell casings were recovered, one nine millimeter casing and the rest .45 caliber casings. He stated that the nine millimeter casing was not in the same area and looked weathered compared to the 45 caliber casings.

Additionally, the detective stated that a search warrant was executed for the defendant’s home in the presence of Sutton and his girlfriend in which an Infiniti M35 with tinted windows was recovered.

Eventually, the detective observed a 2006 light gold Infiniti M35. Noting that it was similar to another suspect vehicle, he detective reviweed more footage to see where the gold Infiniti came from and allegedly discovered a connection between the vehicle and Coleman.

Prosecutors played a clip of the interaction from surveillance footage facing 21st Street at 11:47 a. m. According to the detective, Coleman can be seen wearing a yellow vest. The footage appeared to show the Infiniti passing Coleman and Coleman throwing an object in the direction of the vehicle.

The prosecution continued to present surveillance footage tracking the Infiniti and Coleman on a bike. Between different clips, the detective pointed to locations on a map the prosecution presented where the surveillance cameras were located.

The prosecution also showed footage of an interview between two detectives, including the lead, and Sutton. Throughout the interview, Sutton was asked about the victim, his car, and the area. Sutton claimed to know Coleman, but not well, and confirmed the gold Infiniti was his car.

In the interview, Sutton claimed he knew about the shooting, but only because his family called him to make sure he was okay. He said he was not in the area and never heard gunshots. However, in other parts of the interview, he allegedly claimed to have been half a block away. The detectives showed him several pictures from surveillance cameras that showed his car circling the block near the incident. They also showed a person identified as Coleman throwing something.

Sutton also claimed he never returned to the neighborhood in some clips, but his car could be seen in the area in surveillance footage. When detectives asked Sutton if he returned home, he did not deny it. He repeatedly claimed nothing happened between him and Coleman and that he was not near the shooting. He said “Nobody knows who shot him” during the interview.

The detectives told Sutton “There’s a thousand cameras out there,” and that people claimed the shots came from Sutton’s car. Sutton continued to deny, and also assured no one else was in his car.

At the end of the interview, the detectives told Sutton he was not being charged for the incident, but he was later arrested under those charges.

The detective was unable to conclude his testimony due to time constraints.

Parties are scheduled to reconvene Dec. 9.

Carjacking Defendant Waives Preliminary Hearing, Gets Mental Eval

A carjacking defendant waived his right to a preliminary hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Jennifer Di Toro on Dec. 9, and was ordered to receive a full forensic evaluation of his mental state.

Demetrius Johnson, 27, is charged with armed carjacking for his alleged involvement in an incident that occurred on Nov. 4 on the 3700 block of Hayes Street, NE.

During the hearing, Russell Hairston, Johnson’s attorney, alerted the court of his intent to waive his right to a preliminary hearing.

The prosecution requested that Johnson be required to participate in drug testing and treatment and be monitored by GPS during his release. Johnson has been on release since Nov. 20 after he was originally found mentally competent to stand trial, meaning he understands the charges and can help his attorney defend the case.

According to the prosecution, the offense is “very disturbing.” The prosecution stated their theory is that Johnson allegedly approached the victim’s vehicle and pulled on the door handle, which caused the victim to get out of his car and confront Johnson.

The prosecution said that as the victim struggled with Johnson, the defendant allegedly pepper sprayed the victim and physically fought him, dragging him as his car rolled down the street. Johnson allegedly gained control of the vehicle, drove off and allegedly crashed the vehicle in Maryland, where he was apprehended.

The victim sustained minor injuries during the incident, according to the prosecutor.

The prosecution insisted they “need to make sure he is where he needs to be,” and should have the ability to track any other offense he may commit.

Hairston disagreed, stating that since his release, Johnson has been fully compliant with his conditions. According to Hairston, Johnson has ample community support, including his mom and a mental health specialist who were both present at the hearing.

Hairston also told Judge Di Toro that Johnson’s mom had filed a petition to become Johnson’s legal guardian as he navigates release.

Hairston argued that drug testing and GPS monitoring are unnecessary at this point, but that a full forensic evaluation may be needed to ensure the parties are fully aware of Johnson’s mental wellbeing.

According to Hairston, Johnson “deals with great anxiety.”

Judge Di Toro stated she’d issue an order for Johnson to undergo a forensic examination.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Jan. 21.

Stabbing Defendant’s Case Closed

DC Superior Court Judge Jennifer Di Toro dismissed the case against a defendant charged in connection to a 2023 stabbing during a status hearing on Dec. 3.

Catherine Rondeau, 52, was charged with conspiracy, assault with intent to commit robbery, and second-degree theft for her alleged involvement in a July 18, 2023 stabbing near the 1500 block of Benning Road, NE.

Her case was linked to co-defendant Kevin Allen, 37, who faces separate robbery and assault charges in related matters.

During a Feb. 10 hearing, both defendants told the court they did not know each other and claimed the allegations were based on false information. Allen later entered a guilty plea in one of his pending cases under a global agreement. In court previously, it was agreed that the matter involving Rondeau would also be dismissed as part of that plea.

At the Dec. 3 hearing, the prosecutor informed the court that the prosecution would be dismissing Rondeau’s case.

Before making the request, the prosecutor briefly conferred with defense attorney Elizabeth Paige White, who remarked that the prosecutorial team “does not have their act together.”

Judge Di Toro granted the request, dismissing all three charges. Rondeau had been on pretrial release under the supervision of the Pretrial Services Agency (PSA).

Allen’s case continues separately and he is scheduled to return to court for sentencing on Jan. 9, 2026.

The case against Rondeau is now closed.

Road Rage Shooting Defendant Again Denied Release

A shooting defendant’s motion for release was denied for the third time by DC Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur on Dec. 8.

Marcus Reavenell, 48, is 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.

According to court documents, the conflict began as a road rage incident that later resulted in Reavenell allegedly following the victim’s vehicle from his own and shooting towards the victim.

Reavenell’s defense attorney, Claudine Harrison, told Judge Edelman that she had filed a motion for bond review on Dec. 3.

The motion stressed that Reavenell and his spouse have two children with special needs, and require his care. Harrison told Judge Edelman that given the nature of the incident, Reavenell was willing to stay off the roads as an additional condition of his release.

The prosecution opposed the request, highlighting that Reavenell has a longstanding history she called a “trifecta”, including violent offenses, gun offenses, and threats.

Judge Edelman agreed that Reavenell’s criminal history was too serous to be granted release, and denied the defense’s motion.

Reavenell’s past defense attorney, Lisbeth Saperstein, previously argued for his release before Judge Arthur on Sept. 3 and Aug. 5 to no avail.

Parties are slated to reconvene on Jan. 28.

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