A shooting defendant accepted a plea offer before DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt in a hearing on April 24.
Santos Duarte, 25, was originally charged with assault with intent to kill while armed, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his involvement in a non-fatal shooting that occurred on July 5, 2024 at a restaurant and bar on the 3500 block of 14th Street, NW. One victim, the owner of the restaurant, suffered a gunshot wound to the leg.
The prosecution extended an offer to Santos requiring him to plead guilty to aggravated assault while armed, possessing a firearm during a crime of violence, assault with a dangerous weapon, and carrying a pistol without a license outside of home or business, in exchange for the prosecution not seeking an indictment.
Sentences for the first two and last two counts would run concurrently, with the time served not exceeding 15 years. The prosecution agreed they would waive enhancements to the charges. Additionally, Santos would have to register as a gun offender and contribute to the Victims of Violent Crime Fund.
Santos accepted the plea offer, with his attorney, Camille Wagner, requesting more time for sentencing to allow time for a Youth Act Study to be completed. Under the law a defendant’s record would be sealed if he completed the terms of his punishment successfully.
Sentencing is scheduled for Aug. 15.
