Stabbing Defendant Waives Preliminary Hearing, Detained as Dangerous

By Alex Garcia Pecina - October 18, 2024
Daily Stories | stabbing | Suspects | Victims |

A stabbing defendant waived his right to a preliminary hearing on Oct. 15, and DC Superior Court Judge Heide Herrmann ordered that he remain detained awaiting further proceedings. 

Jesus Peraza, 27, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon for his alleged involvement in a stabbing that occurred on Sept. 15 on the 2100 block of New York Avenue, NE. One individual sustained injuries.

According to court documents, the victim informed officers that she was told to meet Peraza outside but refused to engage in a conflict. After a short time, Peraza allegedly entered her home leading to an a more intense argument and an altercation in which Peraza allegedly stabbed her. 

During the hearing, Henry Escoto, Peraza’s attorney, alerted Judge Hermmann of his intent to waive his right to a preliminary hearing, and requested that Pereza be released under electronic monitoring.

Escoto cited Peraza’s employment and need to support his family, his lack of criminal history, and a promise to comply with court-imposed conditions as reasons to release him under supervision.

The prosecution rebutted that the danger to the community was significant, revealing that Peraza had attacked the victim unprovoked, even after the victim tried to disengage the conflict.

Judge Hermmann affirmed that the evidence was, “concerning to the court,” and that, “the weight of the evidence is very strong.” She affirmed that there were no conditions that could be set to maintain the community and denied the release.

Parties are slated to reconvene Oct. 28.