Shooting Defendant Accepts Plea Deal

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On Feb 15, a non-fatal shooting defendant accepted a plea deal extended by prosecutors in front of DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan.

James Jackson, 35, was originally charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for his involvement in a non-fatal shooting that occurred on Oct. 6, 2023, on the 4700 block of Benning Road, SE. The defendant allegedly shot at two individuals, including Jackson’s ex-girlfriend, although no injuries were reported.

During the hearing, Jackson’s defense attorney, Damon Catacalos, alerted the court his client had agreed to go into a plea deal with the prosecution. According to Catacalos, the deal required Jackson to plead guilty to one count of assault with a dangerous weapon and one count of carrying a weapon without a license, in exchange for the prosecution not seeking an indictment.

Through the deal, parties agreed to a sentence of 10 years for the assault with a dangerous weapon charge, and five years for the carrying charge.

The prosecution asserted that, had the case gone to trial, they would have proven beyond a reasonable doubt that Jackson pointed a gun at both individuals, and shot, damaging a glass screen door, with the intent to cause harm to the individuals. They argued that Jackson carried the firearm willingly, and acted voluntarily.

Catacalos requested Jackson be released under the supervision of the Pretrial Service Agency (PSA) until his sentencing date. He pointed out Jackson’s limited criminal history, suggesting that he would not pose a danger to the community if released.

However, Judge Ryan denied the request, citing Jackson’s involvement in highly dangerous behavior. “What this gentleman admitted to me is that he drove to the individuals’ residence and shot at them as they tried to escape. That is very dangerous behavior, and I believe he should remain in detention,” Judge Ryan stated.

Sentencing is scheduled for April 19.

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