The trial date of a suspected shooter who exchanged hostile words with a victim was put in doubt when the defendant requested new counsel in a hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Carmen MdLean on May 5.
Dante Carthens, 45, is charged with aggravated assault knowingly-grave risk while armed and possession of a firearm in crime of violence.
According to court documents, the incident occurred at a get together on the 700 block of 51st Street, NE on March 21, 2025, when the victim was grazed in the head by a bullet. He told responding officers that Carthens, a stranger, made a derogatory remark about a woman attending the event.
Taking offense at the comment, the victim moved the argument outside where Cathens called him a “bitch.” At which point, Cauthens allegedly pulled out a gun and the pair began to struggle over the weapon. In the melee, Cathens allegedly shot the victim, then pointed the gun at him again.
During the hearing, Cauthens indicated he wanted to replace his current attorney, Victoria Bethel, for personal reasons with little more than a month before the scheduled June 16 trial.
“I’m concerned with his time in detention, nearing 100 days,” said Judge McLean, referring to DC’s mandatory deadline for bringing a suspect going to trial within the stipulated date.
She said she would reach out to other attorneys including the legal panel that handles the Public Defenders Service cases when their attorneys are not available. According to court records, Janai Reed has been appointed to represent Cauthens going forward.
A trial readiness hearing has been set for June 4.
