DC Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur dismissed a non-fatal shooting case without prejudice on March 27. However, prosecutors could revive the matter.
Johnathan Jones, 39, was charged with unlawful discharge of a firearm, unlawful possession of a firearm with a prior conviction exceeding one year, carrying a pistol without a license outside a home or business, possession of an unregistered firearm, and unlawful possession of ammunition. These charges stem from Jones’ alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting that occurred on the 800 block of 8th Street, NW on Feb. 8, 2023.
During a hearing on Feb. 2, parties discussed that Jones, who was held at Saint Elizabeths Hospital, was diagnosed with schizophrenia and experiencing hallucinations.
Jones was previously found mentally incompetent to stand trial on May 16, 2023 by the Department of Behavioral Health (DBH).
Doctors at DBH created a treatment plan for Jones. However, Jones refused to take the medication prescribed to him despite a doctor;s attesting that it would improve his condition.
Due to Jones’ refusal, the prosecution filed a motion for “involuntary medication,” which would force Jones to take the drugs.
A second doctor said that they created a treatment plan involving involuntary medication, and another doctor said they believed involuntary medication would be “inappropriate” in this case.
Madhuri Swarna, who stood in as Jones’ defense attorney, asked the prosecution to hold the motion so she could review it with Jones, but the prosecution requested the motion be granted so the case could move as quickly as possible. Judge Arthur granted the motion.
At a later hearing on March 6, the prosecution withdrew the motion for involuntary medication and the parties reached a joint “Jackson finding.” The finding, which is referenced in Jackson v. Indiana (1972), states that a defendant being indefinitely detained to determine if they will regain competency to stand trial violates due process.
However, Judge Arthur denied Jones’ attorney, Henry Druschel’s request to release Jones and ordered that he continue mental health treatment.
On March 27, Judge Arthur granted the prosecution’s motion to dismiss the case without prejudice, meaning the prosecution could bring the case back to court, and ordered that Jones be released from Saint Elizabeths.
No further dates were set.
