Sex Abuse Case on Track to Begin Trial in April

By D.C. Witness Staff - March 6, 2023
Court | Daily Stories | Homicides | Sex Abuse | Sexual Assault | Shooting | Suspects | Victims |

During a trial readiness hearing on March 3, counsel discussed pending DNA analysis and requested more time to submit motions in a sex abuse case.

The 35-year-old defendant is charged with two counts of first-degree sex abuse while armed with a dangerous weapon. He appeared virtually before DC Superior Court Judge Marisa Demeo. His release compliance was also a subject of the hearing.

During Friday’s hearing, a member from pretrial services told Judge Demeo that the defendant has been in full compliance with his release conditions.

Defense attorney, Kevann Gardner also asked for more time to submit motions.

“I understand the deadline has come and gone,” he said.

Judge Demeo granted his request and established a new deadline of March 10 for the defense to file motions. The prosecution must respond by March 17.

According to court documents, the victim told officers that on July 5, 2011, she came from smocking crack at a friend’s house, While she was walking on 14th Street, NW, the defendant stopped to talk to her. At the time, she told police he was driving a two door dark blue or black vehicle.

The victim got into the front passenger seat of the vehicle and the defendant drove to a nearby alley and parked the vehicle close to the wall, so that the victim wouldn’t be able to open the door, documents state.

He then reached for a large screw driver and told the victim to get naked and demanded oral sex. The defendant then drove further into the alley and forcefully engaged in intercourse with the victim.

The defendant then let the victim out. The victim went to a local hospital and several DNA tests were conducted.

The DNA profile proved a strong match to the defendant, who is a convicted felon, on Dec. 7, 2020.

The parties are set to reconvene on March 17.