An 18-year-old defendant pleaded guilty for his involvement in a carjacking during a hearing on Sept. 4 before DC Superior Court Judge Judith Pipe.
Mark Edwards, 18, was originally charged with carjacking and robbery for his involvement in multiple incidents, including:
- Attempted Carjacking and Robbery on May 22, at the 4000 block of Minnesota Avenue NE
- Carjacking on May 27, around 1st and H Streets NE, near Union Station
- Carjacking on May 28, at the 4000 block of Minnesota Avenue NE
He pleaded guilty to the unarmed carjacking that occurred on May 28, 2025 in the 4000 block of Minnesota Avenue NE.
The defense, Russell Hairston, and Edwards took some time to discuss and consider a guilty plea during the hearing. Though nervous to be in court, Edwards did plead guilty to the felony charge, waiving his right to indictment, trial, and DNA testing in the hearing. Judge Pipe urged him to be sure of his decision repeatedly before continuing.
Due to the severity of the charge, he faces the minimum of seven years in prison and a $75,000 fine, or a maximum of 21 years. The punishment will be imposed at a sentencing hearing. Judge Pipe ordered a Youth Rehabilitation Act (YRA) study due to Edwards’ age and a pre-sentencing report to aid in the decision. If sentenced under the YRA –applicable to offenders younger than 25-years-old–Edwards conviction will be sealed presuming he complies with the terms.
Hairston asked for home confinement since the defendant is so young. After some consideration, Judge Pipe denied the request given the serious charges against Edwards.
The sentencing hearing has been set for November 14, 2025.
