Thank you for reading D.C. Witness.
Consider making a donation to help us continue our mission.
By
D.C. Witness Staff
- May 19, 2025
Court
|
Daily Stories
|
Non-Fatal Shooting
|
Suspects
|
Terry McNeal, 44, stood before DC Superior Court Judge Andrea Hertzfeld on May 19 and accepted a guilty plea for a shooting based on a longstanding grudge.
In accepting the prosecution’s offer to plead guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon and carrying a pistol without a license, McNeal avoided an indictment and other sanctions that could enhance his punishment. The prosecution is recommending sentencing at the bottom third of the guidelines.
According to court documents, McNeal followed the victim as he was driving and fired several shots into the air on Feb. 2, 2024 on the 2400 block of H Street, SE. This was apparently the culmination of a longstanding dispute between the two.The victim allegedly had a romantic relationship with McNeal’s wife some seven years ago.
Given the evidence, in particular, that the victim knew and could identify McNeal, he was arrested and charged. Cell phone data also placed him in the area of the shooting.
The prosecutor, in his proffer to the court, said McNeal would have been proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt had the case gone to trial. Police records note that there were additional shots fired after the initial discharge. There were no reported injuries.
If convicted, McNeal could have faced a maximum of ten years jail time on the assault charge, and a year for the weapons count.
McNeal’s attorney, Matthew Davies, asked Judge Hertzfeld to release McNeal pending disposition because “he’s an excellent candidate for supervised release,” and this is an opportunity to show that he can follow court instructions.
The prosecutor was opposed and the judge agreed.
“This is an incredibly serious offense,” said Judge Hertzfeld. She ordered a presentencing report and set the date for July 17.