Prosecutors called the lead detective in a 2025 homicide case to testify about a relentless stabbing before DC Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan on Sept. 17.
Anna Hyman, 22, is charged with second-degree murder while armed for her alleged involvement in the fatal stabbing of 63-year-old Robert Dent, at the unit block of Galveston Street, SW on July 26..
The detective from the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) testified that according to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (OCME), the victim sustained 55 sharp force injuries to his face, skull, chest, back, scalp, and shoulders. Crime scene photographs showed blood smeared on the apartment door, walls, couches, and floors. A bloody knife was later found concealed inside a bathroom cabinet.
Court documents revealed that Hyman and Dent, who met at a facility where Dent worked and Hyman received treatment, allegedly had an ongoing relationship in which Dent paid Hyman for sex. Prior testimony explained that Dent allegedly became aggressive when Hyman refused sexual advances.
The detective explained that Hyman had previously claimed that Dent attempted to rape her and attack her five-year-old son that night, leading to a violent struggle.
During questioning, the prosecution alluded to court documents that detail a quote from Hyman, saying “The spirit of the devil left him and went into me,” in reference to Dent.
During cross-examination, Hyman’s attorney, Elizabeth Weller, referenced the same documents explaining that neighbors reported hearing a commotion around 4:30 a. m., followed by Hyman’s banging on a door, shouting, “He hurt me, call 911.” Officers arriving on scene noted blood on Hyman’s hands and face, and body-worn camera footage captured her requesting help.
Weller emphasized that Hyman had no prior criminal history and sustained defensive injuries, including cuts on her arms and face. Witnesses also described her as experiencing delusions and hallucinations at the time. Weller further pointed to Dent’s extensive criminal record, including prior convictions for sexual assault.
Judge Ryan ordered for a further review of interviews with Hyman’s children and body camera footage.
Parties are expected to reconvene on Sept. 23 as the case proceeds toward trial.
