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By
Brigette Bagley
- April 7, 2025
Daily Stories
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stabbing
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A stabbing defendant pleaded not guilty to all indictment charges before DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt on April 4.
James Callen, 41, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon, aggravated assault knowingly while armed, assault with intent to kill while armed, assault with significant bodily injury while armed, and four counts of felony contempt for his alleged involvement in a July 13, 2024, non-fatal stabbing incident on the 1600 block of Morris Road, SE. One person sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
All assault charges have an aggravating circumstance of allegedly being committed during release.
During the hearing, Alvin Thomas, Callen’s attorney, alerted Judge Brandt of his intent to plead not guilty to the eight charges. Parties agreed to a trial date of Sept. 2.
In preparation for the trial, Callen also waived his right to the Innocence Protection Act (IPA), which ensures the preservation of evidence and grants defendants the right to independently test DNA evidence to support claims of innocence.
Thomas also said he intends to add a co-counsel to the case, which was granted by Judge Brandt.
This addition of counsel could delay the trial – Judge Brandt stated she will be prepared to vacate the date and set an interim hearing depending on the new attorney’s availability.
Parties are slated to reconvene on Aug. 18.