A shooting suspect was ordered to undergo an additional mental health assessment after he was initially declared competent to stand trial before DC Superior Court Judge Carmen McLean on Nov. 3.
Roasu Johnson, 35, is charged with unlawful possession of a firearm, carrying a pistol without a license outside home or business, unlawful discarding a firearm or ammunition, possession of an unregistered firearm, and unlawful possession of ammunition. The charges stem from his alleged involvement in a shooting that took place on the 900 block of Kennedy Street, NW, on Aug. 6. No injuries were reported.
Several of the charges carry an aggravated circumstance since the offense occurred during Johnson’s release for a prior conviction.
At the status hearing, Johnson appeared before the court and ignored the judge’s requests to state his name for the record. Nor did he acknowledge the judge during the rest of the hearing.
The court requested an additional assessment based on his behavior. This was after a previous assessment concluded he was competent to stand trial, meaning he understands the charges and can work with his attorney.
Alvin Thomas, Johnson’s attorney, requested to send him to the mental health wing of the jail and the court determined it would be up to the DC Jail if he was to be assessed there or at Saint Elizabeth Hospital for psychiatric patients.
Parties are slated to reconvene Nov. 7
