Shooting Defendant Pleads Not Guilty for Arson in His Own Apartment

By Carmen Quinteros [former] - June 7, 2024
Daily Stories | Shooting | Suspects |

A shooting defendant pleaded not guilty after being indicted on eight counts before DC Superior Court Judge Jennifer Di Toro on June 7. 

Robert Crowder, 33, is charged with arson, possession of a firearm during crime of violence, destruction of property, unlawful possession of a firearm, endangerment with a firearm, unlawful discharge of a firearm, possession of an unregistered firearm and unlawful possession of ammunition for his alleged involvement in a shooting incident that occurred on Aug. 22, 2023, on the 1000 block of 2nd Place, SE. No injuries were reported. 

According to court documents, Crowder told the 911 dispatcher that he set his couch on fire and “was trying to save people and stop the violence,” leading him to fire the gun.

Responding officers found “baggies” that included a “green weed-like substance” and a “white rock-like substance” wrapped in a paper towel, where the defendant was sitting during police transport, according to court documents. The white rock-like substance allegedly tested positive for cocaine  

After multiple mental competency exams, Crowder was ultimately found competent to stand trial on April 1. He is currently held at St. Elizabeths Hospital for prisoners with mental health issues.

John Sample, Crowder’s defense attorney, pleaded not guilty on behalf of his client to all charges and asserted his constitutional rights, including the right to a speedy trial.

Parties are set to return June 12 to discuss a plea offer.