DC Superior Court Judge Judith Pipe scolded the prosecution for its handling of a case that has ricocheted among three judges since last September. The judge seemed incredulous that prosecutors still hadn’t figured out if they wanted to try the defendant
“This is a total joke,” said Pipe.
Alonzo Hinton, 39, is charged with simple assault and possession of a prohibited weapon for his alleged involvement in a non-fatal shooting on Sept. 20, 2025 on the 100 block of Atlantic Street, SE. No injuries were reported. The issue arose from an argument over payment for a pair of pants.
“This case has gotten kicked around,” said Judge Pipe and she said prosecutors were close to violating Hinton’s right to a speedy trial. “It seems like someone dropped the ball,” she continued, insisting the prosecution clarify its intent in a case that’s now been downgraded to a misdemeanor from an original felony charge.
“This is very demandable,” said Judge Pipe regarding a jury trial. Ultimately, the prosecutor agreed to a date of Aug. 13 without explaining why the case had been in limbo.
However, the prosecutor was opposed to Hinton’s continued pre-trial release. He said that Hinton had failed to comply with reporting requirements.
Defense attorney Ferguson Evans argued that HInton should stay on release since the issue was a stay-away order and work out the terms with his case manager.
Judge Pipe agreed to continue Hinton’s release and she had some final harsh words for the prosecutor.
“If the government is not ready, I will dismiss the case,” said Judge Pipe.
The next hearing on the case is scheduled for July 10.
