On Feb. 13, DC Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman imposed a sentence of 36 months for a non-fatal shooting defendant.
In December 2025, Keanu Scott pleaded guilty to assault with intent to kill while armed and assault with a dangerous weapon following his involvement in a non-fatal shooting on Aug. 21, 2025 at the intersection of 9th Street and Dahlia Street, NW, which left one victim injured.
Before Judge Edelman imposed the sentence, the victim injured from the shooting appeared in court to give a personal impact statement. She described her “disturbing” history with Scott, saying she was deeply concerned by the fact that he used a firearm in the presence of her five-year-old son. She said she believed that a sentence of “three years isn’t enough” for the pain Scott caused her.
After the statement, the prosecution stated that they appreciated how quickly Scott, 26, took accountability, and requested a sentence of 36 months.
Scott’s defense attorney, Michelle Lockard, argued that though Scott had a firearm, he did not shoot at the victim; court documents say that the victim’s wound could have been caused by shrapnel rather than a bullet, but is unclear. Lockard also expressed concern about Scott’s mental health, saying that he was a victim of domestic violence and needed therapy.
At the time of the offense, Scott was on probation in Maryland for a separate matter.
Scott himself gave a brief statement saying he wanted to change and be a better person after serving his sentence.
Scott must also serve three years of supervised release, pay $100 to the Victims of Violent Crime Fund, and register as a gun offender. Mental health services and vocational training were also recommended following his release.
No further hearings have been scheduled at this time.
