A stabbing defendant was released on Nov. 12 after DC Superior Court Judge Judith Pipe expressed frustration over the prosecution’s delay in obtaining DNA evidence.
Dennis Doleman, 49, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for his alleged involvement in a stabbing on the 300 block of H Street, NE on Aug. 7, 2025.
During the incident, Doleman is alleged to have stabbed the victim, who was in a mobility scooter, in the hands, face, neck, and back multiple times, according to court documents.
Judge Pipe showed little patience with the prosecution from the outset of the hearing. She initially denied a prosecutor’s request to speak with her under seal, telling the prosecutor that anything to do with DNA testing should not be discussed in private.
Judge Pipe later relented and spoke with the prosecution under seal, though she quickly pressed the prosecution about DNA testing after the sealed conversation had ended.
“Why have you not submitted anything for testing,” Judge Pipe said.
At Judge Pipe’s urging, the prosecution agreed to release the hold on Doleman as they continue work on DNA evidence.
“You want nine months to do your investigation, great. All you need to do is release the hold,” Judge Pipe said after the prosecution agreed to release Doleman.
Doleman’s attorney, Todd Baldwin, had unsuccessfully petitioned for his release in two previous hearings, arguing that Doleman acted in self-defense and did not pose a threat to the community.
Doleman will be required to report regularly for drug testing and stay away from the victim. Prosecutors did not ask for Doleman to be fit with a GPS ankle monitor or maintain a curfew.
Parties are slated to reconvene Jan. 23.
