Routine Hearing Turns into Melee as Defendant Claims Brutality

By D.C. Witness Staff - May 16, 2023
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Dominic Copeland  had to be physically restrained and forcibly removed from the courtroom in what was scheduled as a routine hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Maribeth Raffinan on May 16.

Copeland, 32, is charged with assault with intent to kill in one case and assault with a dangerous weapon in another. He allegedly shot at a moving car at the intersection of 1st Street and N Street, NW, on April 26, 2019. 

Earlier that same day, he allegedly stabbed a victim eight times in an apartment building on the 100 block of Q Street, NW. 

The problems started the minute Copeland entered the courtroom and refused to sit down.  When Judge Raffinan asked Copeland to state his name, he declined.  When she persisted, Copeland shouted that he hadn’t seen his lawyer, Michael Madden, who was viewing the proceedings remotely.  Copeland continued struggling against US Marshals who were holding him on both sides.  

“This is brutality!,” he yelled and said as a U.S. citizen he demanded his rights.  

“We’re not going to yell at each other,” Judge Raffinan responded, encouraging Copeland to strike a less confrontational posture.  However, it was to no avail and Copeland continued to resist.  Ultimately, four more US Marshals rushed into the courtroom, subduing the defendant and returning him to his cell. 

Madden assured Judge Raffinan that he would have a meeting with Copeland prior to his next court appearance. 

Meanwhile, a motion hearing to sever Copeland’s matters from Artie Byrd, 31, who is charged as an accessory, is set for July 10 at 10:30 a.m.

A trial readiness hearing for Copeland is scheduled for Aug. 18 at 10:30 a.m.