Non-fatal Shooting Defendant Claims Education As ‘Turning Point’

By Hunter Odom [former] - July 7, 2023
Court | Daily Stories | Shooting | Suspects | Victims |

In a July 7 hearing, DC Superior Court Judge Robert Okun granted a continuance for a defendant in a non-fatal shooting case. 

Kenneth Gray, 24, faces 12 counts for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting that occurred on May 27, 2019 at the 1300 block of Brentwood Road, NE.

He is charged with two counts of assault with intent to kill while armed, three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, three counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, carrying a pistol without a license outside of a home or business, possession of an unregistered firearm, and unlawful possession of ammunition. 

Gray has also been charged in connection to a stabbing that occurred in DC jail in 2020. 

The prosecution asked for the higher end of the sentencing range, eight years, due to the degree of Gray’s alleged violence. “There is no reason to believe Mr. Gray’s conduct is going to change … it is clear from the record that when he is released, he will obtain weapons of any kind,” according to the prosecutor.

The prosecution also argued that eight years is more than fair considering the circumstances of this case. 

Michael Madden, Gray’s defense attorney, requested a sentencing delay to January 2024 to allow Gray to finish the Prison Scholars Program, which is licensed through Georgetown University. Madden also asked for Judge Okun to consider a six-year sentence, the lower end of the agreed range. 

To highlight his future endeavors and drive to pursue education, Gray addressed the court and said, “Everybody has a certain turning point. This is my turning point.” 

Judge Okun granted the continuance and asked for Madden to submit written verification of Gray’s involvement in the program with the court. 

Parties are scheduled to return Jan. 19.