Shooting Defendant Pleads Not Guilty at Arraignment

By Adriana Marroquin - October 17, 2024
Court | Daily Stories | Shooting | Suspects |

A shooting defendant pleaded not guilty to seven charges before DC Superior Court Judge Robert Salerno on Oct. 17. 

Kevin Johnson, 40, is charged with unlawful discharge of a firearm, endangerment with a firearm, unlawful possession of a firearm by a convict, carrying a pistol without a license, possession of a prohibited weapon, possession of an unregistered firearm, and unlawful possession of ammunition. The charges stem from his alleged involvement in a shooting incident that occurred on July 7 on the 300 block of Anacostia Road, SE. No injuries were reported. 

According to court documents, officers responded to the scene after hearing the sounds of three gunshots, and located three shell casings at the location. Johnson was arrested following the officers receiving an image of the suspect who was seen firing the gun matching his description. 

During the hearing, William Howell, Johnson’s attorney, alerted the court of his intent to plead not guilty to all charges and asserted his constitutional rights. 

Judge Salerno and the parties discussed a motion filed by Howell on Oct. 16 to delay the trial, which was previously scheduled for Oct. 24. In the motion, Howell stated the defense needs to seek expert witnesses in relation to forensic issues. 

Judge Salerno questioned if it had anything to do with concerns for Johnson’s competency, but Howell and Judge Salerno discussed the issue under seal. 

It is unclear if Judge Salerno granted the request for a continuance. 

Parties are slated to reconvene Oct. 24 for a status hearing.