DC Superior Court Judge Carmen McLean released a stabbing defendant on July 11 to undergo mental health treatment, essentially giving him a second chance to rebuild his life.
“Please take advantage of all the work these wonderful people have done for you,” Judge McLean said refrerring to an unlikely coalition of the prosecution, the defense and the victim in this case.
Gregory Edmonds, 34, was sentenced to 24 months of incarceration, suspended, and two years’ probation for assault with significant bodily injury. The charges stem from his involvement in the stabbing of his father on July 4, 2023 on the 2600 block of Martin Luther King Avenue, SE.
Based on Edmonds’ ongoing battles with mental illness and substance usage, as well as requests from his father, Edmonds faced no jail time. His sentence was instead focused on recovery, with both parties working with the Department of Rehabilitation and Development to create treatment plans for his release.
After failing to meet his initial requirements, Judge McLean revoked and resentenced Edmonds to repeat probation paired with a more robust treatment plan involving entry into a North Carolina mental health facility, where he and his family live. To monitor progress, the court set a follow-up hearing to validate compliance.
Judge McLean expressed her gratitude to both parties for their focus on rehabilitation, telling Edmonds the rest is up to him.
Parties are set to meet on Aug. 15.
