Defendant Waives Right to Preliminary Hearing

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A shooting defendant waived his right to a preliminary hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Heidi Herrmann on July 10.

Antonio Lucas, 46, is charged with aggravated assault knowingly while armed and possession of a firearm in a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting on May 2 on the 3800 block of Jay Street, NE. One individual sustained injuries during the incident.

According to court documents, an individual, identified as Lucas, allegedly got into an altercation with the victim over a car. The victim walked away in an attempt to de-escalate the situation, but the individual, identified as Lucas, continued to follow. The victim eventually stopped and another altercation ensued, where the victim was shot in the right thigh and fled the scene to find police assistance.

The victim later pointed the defendant out in a photo array saying he was “more than 100 percent sure that was him,” according to court documents.

At the hearing, Bruce Cooper, Lucas’ defense attorney, alerted the court he was waiving his right to a preliminary hearing, and requested he be released as he awaits further proceedings.

However, the prosecution opposed the request, saying the defendant continues to pose a danger to the community.

Judge Herrmann agreed, holding the defendant.

Parties are slated to return on July 18 in front of DC Superior Court Judge Jennifer Di Toro.