Parties discussed a domestic stabbing defendant’s potential threat to disrupt proceedings until he has a new attorney in a hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Deborah Israel on June 23.
Chauncey Liverpool, 33, is charged with assault with significant bodily injury while armed and assault with a dangerous weapon. The counts stem from his alleged involvement in a stabbing with scissors on the 4300 block of 3rd Street, SE, on Sept. 9, 2025. Liverpool’s girlfriend sustained injuries in her back and left arm.
Liverpool is also charged with two counts of felony contempt for attempting to contact the victim despite a judge ordering him to avoid her.
The hearing was scheduled to address a report filed on June 18 from the Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) that found Liverpool mentally competent for court. To stand trial, Liverpool must understand the charges against him and be able to assist his attorney in his defense.
In the report, DBH personnel noted that Liverpool is unhappy with his attorney, Howard McEachern, and his legal strategy. The report stated that Liverpool intends to interrupt hearings until he is satisfied with his attorney. In discussions with DBH personnel, he reportedly referenced representation he had in the past, claiming that they were more aligned with his goals and health needs.
In court, Liverpool, McEachern, and Judge Israel had a discussion under seal regarding the matter. While Judge Israel specified that the prosecution was not permitted to participate, Liverpool’s words became audible to the whole courtroom toward the end of the conversation.
“I can’t sign this sh*t,” Liverpool exclaimed.
The DBH report stemmed from a previous request by Judge Israel for a mental competency examination. The judge based her order on Liverpool’s inability to remain awake at a prior hearing on June 15, which resulted in the postponement of his trial.
Again, Liverpool’s alertness came into question. At the beginning of the hearing, Judge Israel asked Liverpool, “I need you to keep your eyes open for me. Can you do that?” Liverpool nodded in response.
The prosecution expressed concerns about potential malingering, which is when a defendant intentionally fabricates or exaggerates debilitating conditions to delay proceedings or obtain a more favorable result.
Their concern stems from several DBH reports over the past year, all of which have opined that Liverpool is competent to stand trial.
Judge Israel said another trial will be scheduled at the next hearing unless McEachern and Liverpool decide to pursue other avenues before then.
Parties are slated to reconvene July 10.
