In a brief hearing before DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman on Dec. 15, Keanu Scott, 26, pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm with a previous conviction.
The defendant was originally charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and assault with intent to kill in connection to a non-fatal shooting on the 800 block of Dahlia Street, NW on Aug. 21.
Judge Edelman explained that by accepting the plea Scott would be giving up his right to a jury trial, as well as to test any DNA evidence in the case. Further, he would not be able to appeal if he were convicted.
In return, the prosecution agreed to waive filing an indictment or bring any greater charges against Scott.
As Judge Edelman reviewed the terms of the plea agreement, Scott affirmed that he understood the document and accepted the disposition of the case. He is represented by Michelle Lockard who told the court that Scott was also willing to forgo a preliminary hearing of the evidence against him.
If the case had gone to trial, the prosecution would have been able to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Scott illegally possessed a firearm despite a previous firearm conviction in 2015.
“I do accept Mr. Scott’s guilty plea,” said Judge Edelman.
The judge said the maximum penalty for the charge is 15 years in prison and a fine of $37,500. Nonetheless, Edelman noted that the mandatory minimum for the crime is three years imprisonment. Further, Scott could be required to pay up to $5,000 to the Victims of Violent Crimes Fund and must register as a gun offender whenon released.
Sentencing in the case is set for Feb. 13
