Defense attorney Emma Mlyniec requested a bond review for a shooting defendant before DC Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur on Oct. 23. However, his clear record is a concern for prosecutors
Christopher Warren, 43, is charged with aggravated assault knowingly while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting that occurred on the 1800 block of Q Street, SE, on Aug. 20, 2024.
According to court documents, the victim was a DoorDash delivery driver, who sustained a gunshot wound to the right arm.
At the hearing, Mlyniec requested Warren be released. She argued, “the prosecution’s main argument is the strength and nature of the case.”
However, she continued, “The prosecution relied on Mr. Warren’s lack of a criminal record as a reason to hold him.”
“ Mr. Warren has continued to work, has not made any attempts to flee from this case, and has kept a clean record” Mlyniec emphasized.
The prosecution explained that Warren’s lack of criminal history is what makes this a serious case. They explained, “We mentioned Mr. Warren’s lack of a criminal record because of the randomness of the case. He shot a person who was a stranger to him.”
The prosecution stated, “It is harder to know what conditions of release can be made to protect the community.”
The prosecution also mentioned that multiple firearms, in addition to the one used in the shooting, were allegedly found in Warren’s mother’s home, where he resided. Mlyniec rebutted that the firearms were passed down to Warren from his father.
Mylniec made it clear that she is not arguing against probable cause, but wants a release decision. She also stated that the defense is accepting any conditions acceptable to the court.
Judge Arthur stated he needed more time to review the arguments.
Parties are slated to reconvene for a bond review hearing on Oct. 24.
