-
2020: PARKING LOT SHOOTING CASE DISMISSED
- Criminal Defense
The client was charged with unlawfully shooting at a motor vehicle, unlawful discharge of a firearm, disorderly conduct and reckless handling of a firearm following a shooting at Walmart. Police were called to the scene for a fight in the parking lot and a shot being fired. The court dismissed the case.
-
2020: DRUG CASE DISMISSED
- Drug Crimes
The client was charged with third offense possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. He faced mandatory minimum 10 years. At trial, I pointed to a procedural error involving the filing of the drug lab result. The court dismissed the case.
-
2019: RAPE JURY NOT GUILTY
- Sex Crimes
The client was accused of Sexual contact with a child under the age of
12. Due to the nature of the allegations, there was a mandatory life sentence
if he was convicted. Months of trial preparation revealed inconsistent
statements from the alleged victim online and in recorded conversation.
At the conclusion of a multi-day trial, the jury acquitted the client.
-
2019: JURY DISMISSES SEX CHARGES
- Sex Crimes
The client was accused of molesting a 10-year-old girl. Investigation revealed
video evidence of the innocuous and positive contact between the client
and child after the alleged offense. Cross examination of the alleged
victim further revealed significant inconsistencies and gaps in recollection.
The jury dismissed all charges.
-
2019: DOMESTIC VIOLENCE TRIAL NOT GUILTY
- Criminal Defense
The client was charged with committing an assault with a baseball bat.
When police spoke to the victim he was bleeding from both hands. During
cross-examination, the alleged victim acknowledged that he suffered from
a bleeding disorder and could not remember what caused the injuries to
his hands. The court dismissed the charge and ruled that forensic evidence
did not sufficiently corroborate the states version of assault.
-
2018: JURY DISMISSES COCAINE DISTRIBUTION CHARGE
- Drug Crimes
Police apprehended the client after a short foot pursuit in an area of high drug activity. An officer found a scale and several packages containing cocaine on the ground near the client. Testimony at trial revealed a lack of forensic evidence connecting the client to the contraband. The jury found the client not guilty.
-
2018: JURY TRIAL NOT GUILTY FELON FIREARM POSSESSION
- Criminal Defense
Law enforcement agents arrested the client after a short car pursuit. During a search of the vehicle police officers found a firearm in the glove compartment. The client faced a mandatory five-year jail sentence. Cross examination revealed that officers had failed to conduct forensic analysis of the weapon. The jury dismissed the charge against the client
-
2018: ATTEMPTED MURDER/SHOOTING NOT GUILTY
- Violent Crimes
The client was involved in a relationship with a married woman. Someone shot the woman’s husband 3 times. The husband identified the Client as the shooter. Police subsequently located text messages in which the Client threatened the husband and stated that he was willing to “kill” for the wife. Trial testimony included alibi evidence that the Client was not at the scene of the shooting. Cross examination also revealed a lack of forensic evidence corroborating the prosecution case.
-
2018: NOT GUILTY FEDERAL JURY VERDICT
- Federal Crimes
The client was accused of stealing more than $100,000 from her employer.
Federal investigators charged her with aggravated identity theft and the
client faced a 2 year mandatory sentence. Federal prosecutors refused
to offer any plea without the minimum sentence. Trial revealed the ID
charges to be inappropriate for the case.
-
2018: DOMESTIC ASSAULT CHARGES DISMISSED
- Criminal Defense
The client was a 47 year old mother of three daughters. Police encountered the youngest daughter (14) after midnight several miles from home. The daughter was visibly bruised and claimed to have run away from home after being “punched” by her mother (client). At trial evidence revealed that Mother (client) physically confronted daughter in an effort to confiscate her phone after client found inappropriate on-line posts. The court noted inconstant Commonwealth evidence and the reasonableness of client’s actions in its decision to dismiss the case.
-
2017: FELONY TEXT MESSAGE HARASSMENT CHARGES REDUCED
- Criminal Defense
The client was accused of making obscene threats using an electronic device. Text messages from the client revealed more than twenty messages in which the client used profane language and threatened to commit violent crimes against the victim. In court evidence revealed that the alleged offense did not fit the elements of the charged felony statute. Trial showed that the alleged victim also used similar language. The court disagreed with the prosecution request for active incarceration and imposed a minimal fine.
-
2017: EMBEZZLEMENT AND PRESCRIPTION DRUG FRAUD CASES NOT GUILTY
- Drug Crimes
The client was an employee at a medical facility. His employers accused
him of stealing schedule I and II drugs. Trial revealed inconsistencies
in an alleged confession. The commonwealth also failed to secure the testimony
of several alleged victims. The Court dismissed all charges against the client.
-
2017: ABDUCTION and FELONY DOMESTIC ASSAULT CHARGE DISMISSED
- Criminal Defense
The client was charged with abducting and assaulting his girlfriend. Despite
an extensive prior record, the client vehemently asserted his innocence.
Independent witnesses and the alleged victim asserted that no crime or
assault occurred. The prosecution dismissed the case at a preliminary hearing.
-
2017: JURY REDUCES 20 YEAR CHARGE TO MISDEMEANOR
- Criminal Defense
Police arrested the client after he stabbed his neighbor during a backyard
fight. Prosecutors charged the Client with a class 2 felony. At trial,
cross examination revealed that the alleged victim initiated physical
contact. After 5 hours of deliberation, the jury dismissed felony charges
and imposed a monetary fine with no active jail time.
-
2017: PARENTAL ASSAULT DISMISSED
- Criminal Defense
With a previous attorney, a District Court found the client guilty of committing an assault for spanking his 12-year-old daughter. The Court sentenced the client to serve active jail time. The client appealed and hired me. Investigation revealed that the allegations were motivated by the clients ex wife. The alleged victims recanted her story. The prosecutor dismissed the charge
-
2017: ROBBERY CHARGES DISMISSED
- Theft Crimes
The client was charged with robbery and use of a firearm in the commission
of a felony. He faced a potential life in prison meant and a three-year
mandatory term on the firearms charge. At April luminary hearing, cross
examination of the alleged victim revealed glaring inconsistencies. The
victim admitted that parts of the story were not true. Under oath, the
alleged victim revealed that he could not positively identify any criminal
actions by my client. The court dismissed all charges.
-
2016: DOMESTIC ASSAULT CASE DISMISSED
- Criminal Defense
The client was charged with committing an illegal assault against his girlfriend.
Prior to trial I interviewed the girlfriend and secured an affidavit indicating
an accurate version of the events. Upon presentation, the Campbell court
dismissed the claim against the client.
-
2016: DUI NOT GUILTY
- DUI
The client was charged with driving under the influence. He possessed a
commercial drivers license and could not professionally afford an alcohol
related conviction. following a traffic stop he blew a .15 reading into
a field Breathalyzer. At trial however this result was deemed not admissible.
I highlighted the clients successful performance of other field sobriety
tests. The court acquitted the client of the DUI.
-
2016: NOT GUILTY DUI
- DUI
The client was a military specialist whose career would have been ruined
by an alcohol related conviction. Prior to trial, the arresting officer
asserted that the defendant "failed" roadside sobriety tests.
Discovery however produced an officer body camera evidence that visually
depicted the arrest. The video showed the client to be steady on his feet,
have clear speech, and correctly perform a one-legged stand test. The
court amended the warrant to a simple traffic offense.
-
2016: NOT GUILTY JURY TRIAL KIDNAP/ABDUCTION CHARGE
- Criminal Defense
The client was charged with assaulting his live in girlfriend and holding
her against her will in her house. At trial, cross-examination revealed
severe inconsistencies in the alleged victim's testimony. I aggressively
explored deficiencies in the collection and presentation of forensic corroboration
of the Commonwealth's theory of the case. The jury acquitted the client
of all charges.
-
2016: NOT GUILTY DOMESTIC ASSULT TRIAL VERDICT
- Criminal Defense
The client shares custody of his son with the child's mother. During
the clients scheduled visitation weekend, the mother refused to give custody
of the child to father. An argument ensued. The mother claimed that the
client struck her. Although the prosecution offered a deferred disposition,
the client adamantly claimed his innocence and refused any admission of
guilt. At trial, cross examination revealed severe inconsistencies which
rendered the alleged victim's testimony incredible. The judge acquitted
the client.
-
2016: MARIJUANA TRIAL NOT GUILTY
- Drug Crimes
The client is a public school employee. During a routine search, police
using drug sniffing dogs found marijuana in the client’s car. The
car was parked on school property. Police pulled the client out of class
and confronted her. Due to the nature of the charge and alleged location
of the crime, the client's future was in jeopardy. At trial, I attacked
the prosecutions ability to connect the client with the items in the vehicle.
The trial judge dismissed the charge against the client.
-
2016: NOT GUILTY JURY VERDICT
- Criminal Defense
The client was charged with an assault that occurred at the alleged victims workplace. Cross examination revealed financial motive and inconsistent statements from the alleged victim. Trial also revealed a suspicious lack of eyewitness or circumstantial corroboration. The jury only deliberated for 12 minutes before acquitting the client of all charges
-
2015: LARCENY TRIAL NOT GUILTY
- Criminal Defense
The client was one of three youths charged with being underage and stealing
alcohol from a local store. Video surveillance appeared to show the client
carrying the items into a shopping cart. At trial, testimony one of the
co-defendants revealed that my client was not aware of the co-conspirators
larcenous intentions. My client was the only one of all three to be acquitted
of all charges.
-
2015: MISTAKEN IDENTITY CHARGES DROPPED BEFORE TRIAL
- Criminal Defense
The client was arrested during a routine traffic stop for having outstanding
criminal warrants. Police asserted that she had stolen items from a department
store nearly 100 miles away from the scene of her traffic stop. Investigation
revealed that the client’s ex-boyfriend had been arrested for the
crime with another woman - his
new girlfriend. The ex-boyfriend apparently tried to protect his new girlfriend by naming
the client as an accomplice. I asked the prosecution to review surveillance
video and compare those images to my client. The prosecution realized
the fraud and abruptly dismissed the charges against the client.
-
2015: PERJURY CHARGES DISMISSED
- Criminal Defense
The client was charged with making false statements in a special grand
jury inquiry during a murder investigation. The prosecution demanded that
she be held without bail. The Court granted my motion for her release
and ordered discovery requiring the Commonwealth allow me to view transcripts
of the clients sworn testimony. Careful examination revealed that alleged
false statements were not necessarily misrepresentations or related to
material issues. One week prior to trial the Commonwealth's attorney
elected to dismiss the charges.
-
2015: NOT GUILTY FELONY GRAND LARCENY
- Criminal Defense
The client was charged with her 3rd larceny offense. The Commonwealth claimed
to have a partial confession and offered a plea with active incarceration.
The client refused. At trial, a previous larceny offense was eliminated
due to technical deficiencies. The court reduced the grade of the offense
to a misdemeanor and heard evidence. Prosecution witnesses were unable
to clearly testify that the client had taken items at issue. I argued
that the client's statement was consistent with her assertion of innocence.
The judge granted a motion to strike the charge.
-
2015: MANSLAUGHTER CASE DISMISSED
- Criminal Defense
The clients were a married couple with a 2 month old daughter. When their
daughter tragically died, both parents were charged with felony child
neglect and manslaughter. I reviewed the autopsy report and spoke with
the medical examiner. The medical examiner agreed to write a letter to
the Court stating that the cause of death was accidental. In a stunning
change of circumstances the prosecutor agreed to drop all charges against
both clients.
-
2015: FELONY PROPERTY CRIME DISMISSED
- Criminal Defense
With previous counsel, a District Court found the client guilty of trespassing,
sentenced him to active jail time and sent a felony charge to a higher
court. The felony count alleged that the client was angry over a work
termination and intentionally caused almost $100,000 damage to his former
employers property. I appealed the conviction and contested the felony.
After several months of investigation, the Commonwealth agreed not to
prosecute the client.
-
2015: FIREARMS CHARGE DISMISSED
- Criminal Defense
The client was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
He was facing a mandatory 2 year sentence, 10 years probationary 'come-back'
time and was held with bail. I immediately obtained his pre-trial release
and requested discovery production. The commonwealth’s attorney
was forced to reveal that a police dash cam contradicted a written offense
report. Prior to preliminary hearing the prosecution dropped the charges
against the client.
-
2015: NOT GUILTY MARIJUANA TRIAL
- Drug Crimes
Police stopped client claiming he had illegal window tint. The officer
claimed he smelled an odor of marijuana. A search located narcotics in
a bag that also contained personal affects belonging to the client. At
trial I argued that the officer profiled the client. Cross examination
also exposed the officer’s failure to identify the client’s
alleged connection to the bag containing the drugs. The court dismissed the case.
-
2015: FIREARM CHARGE DISMISSED
- Criminal Defense
The client was charged with brandishing a firearm during an argument with
his father, an active duty police officer. Investigation revealed discrepancies
in the police report. After negotiation the Commonwealth's attorney
agreed to a resolution dismissing charges against the client.
-
2014: ARMED ROBBERY CHARGES (4 FELONIES) DISMISSED
- Criminal Defense
The client was initially held without bail on numerous felonies arising
out of an alleged masked home invasion. Investigation revealed a complex
connection between several jurisdictions and co-defendants. I negotiated
with 6 assistant commonwealths' attorneys from multiple locations.
I acquired a bail release for the client. Eventually prosecutors dismissed
every charge against my client.
-
2007: DRUG DISTRIBUTION & THEFT CHARGES
- Drug Crimes
My client was facing 70 years of incarceration for drug distribution and
theft charges. Police had used hidden recording devices and a confidential
informant to set him up. The prosecutor claimed that he had my client's
confession and admissions on tape. Using legal research and effective
trial advocacy, I convinced the judge to dismiss all charges.
-
2007: MURDER, DRUG POSSESSION, & USE OF A FIREARM
- Criminal Defense
My client was charged with murder, drug possession and use of a firearm.
Several witnesses claimed to have seen my client in the area following
the victim. In a moment later described by a newspaper article as a "Perry
mason moment" I elicited testimony from a witness that denied that
my client was the shooter. The client was acquitted of all charges.
-
2008: MURDER, CAR-JACKING, & USE OF A FIREARM
- Criminal Defense
The client, a 25 year old with an extensive criminal record was charged
with murder, car-jacking and use of a firearm. News reports after the
shooting claimed that police heard the victim identify the shooter before
he died. A second witness testified that my client took her keys and robbed
her at gunpoint. Cross-examination revealed discrepancies in the eye-witness
testimony. The jury found the client guilty of a lesser gun offense but
acquitted the client of homicide and carjacking.
-
2009: NOT GUILTY
- Criminal Defense
The client was a high school senior who had been offered a scholarship
to play division one college basketball. He had been charged with a class
one misdemeanor and a conviction would have jeopardized his scholarship.
The prosecutor refused to offer any plea that would allow him to play
basketball. After a lengthy trial, the court found the client not guilty.
He will attend school and begin basketball practice this fall.
-
2009: POSSESSION OF A FIREARM BY A CONVICTED FELON
- Criminal Defense
My client was a 28 year old father of three young children charged with
possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and brandishing a firearm.
As a new parent, he was not willing to accept the Commonwealth's proposed
plea agreement of 3 years of incarceration. At a preliminary hearing,
I successfully argued that his offense did not meet the technical elements
of the felony as charged. The judge dismissed all charges and the client
returned home to his family.
-
2009: DRUG CRIMES
- Drug Crimes
Three police officers approached my client in, "an area of high drug
activity" and initiated a search of his person and clothes. The search
revealed a significant amount of illegal narcotics. At a motions hearing,
the police asserted that their search was based upon a need for officer
safety. In a written memorandum, I brought the judge's attention to
a series of recent Supreme Court decisions which require an officer to
have reasonable articulable suspicion in prior to initiating a search
like the one in my case. The Judge ruled that the search of my client
violated his Fourth Amendment right against illegal searches and seizures.
The Judge threw out the evidence and the Commonwealth was unable to try
the case against my client.
-
2010: CHARGES FROM RACKETEERING TO CONSPIRACY
- Criminal Defense
Outlaw Motorcycle Trial. In June 2010, federal agents in four states stormed
the clubhouses of the American Outlaw Motorcycle Club. 27 Club members
were charged with offenses ranging from racketeering to conspiracy. Agents
raided my client's home and arrested him in front of his wife and
children. Under severe pressure from the government, 19 of the club members
plead guilty and many of them agreed to testify against my client, the
president, and others who had chosen not to take plea deals. After months
of trial preparation and research my client and I decided to resist all
plea offers from the government. As trial approached for my client and
the national club president, my client became certain that the government
could not overcome our defense. Five days before trial, I described key
details of my defense to the prosecutor and told him in that my client
would not accept any plea. Two days later, the government dismissed all
charges against my client.
-
2010: HARASSING & STALKING
- Criminal Defense
My client was a 22 year old college student accused of harassing and stalking
his ex-girlfriend. Prior to retaining me, a district court judge found
him guilty and sentenced him to serve 6 months in jail. He appealed and
hired me. I suggested he request a trial by jury. At trial, I successfully
impeached the accusing witness by highlighting phone records that exposed
contradictions in her testimony. The jury acquitted my client of all charges.
-
2011: TRESPASSING
- Criminal Defense
In December 2010, a private citizen called police and said that he woke
up after midnight and saw an intruder in his bedroom. The citizen told
police that as he got out of bed he saw that the burglar was a bald, black
male, 5'11'' tall, wearing a black shirt. Twenty minutes later,
the police observed my client in the area of the break-in. After a foot
chase, police arrested my client. My client was a convicted felon and
looked similar to the description given to the police. However, at a preliminary
hearing, I vigorously challenged the victim. Ultimately during cross-examination,
the victim admitted that although he was certain of the burglar's
race, height, and hairstyle, he could not positively identify my client
as the one who had entered his home. The judge dismissed all charges against
my client.
-
2011: ASSAULT, RAPE, & ABDUCTION
- Sex Crimes
The client was charged with assault, rape, and abduction. Prior to retaining
me a judge found him guilty of the assault charge and certified the rape
and abduction charges for trial in circuit court. The judge ordered that
the client begin serving a 12-month jail sentence while he awaited trial
on the two serious felony charges. Unhappy with his legal representation,
the client appealed, terminated his previous attorney, and retained me.
I immediately took a different approach to the case. I contacted the complaining
witness and discussed her version of the events. It became apparent that
the police officers involved in the case overcharged my client. After
negotiation with the Commonwealth's Attorney, the prosecutor agreed
to dismiss all felony charges against my client. My client never spent
a day in jail.
-
2012: FELONIOUS GUN CHARGES
- Criminal Defense
The client was involved in a three way shootout at a gas station. As a
convicted felon, he was not allowed to legally possess a firearm. Police
charged him with eight felony indictments. At trial, I presented legal
precedent that required the judge to dismiss six of the charges against
the client. Additional research required the court to instruct the jury
that although he was a convicted felon, the client was allowed to use
a gun in justifiable self-defense. The jury acquitted the client of charges.
-
2012: FRAUDULENT BANKING TRANSACTIONS
- Criminal Defense
The client was charged in a three count federal felony indictment alleging
fraudulent transaction at five bank locations. During several months of
investigation I noticed discrepancies in the handwriting of signatures
alleged to have been made by my client. Convinced of her innocence, the
client rejected all plea offers. The Government subsequently dismissed all
criminal charges
against the client.
-
2012: ABDUCTION, HOMICIDE
- Violent Crimes
My client was one of three men charged in connection with a brutal abduction
and homicide. Each of them plead guilty to
murder. I arranged for my client to be sentenced last. The first two men to be
sentenced collectively received more than 110 years of incarceration.
I hired a video editor to compile a four minute film detailing my client's
life and family. Additionally, I presented a sentencing position memorandum
that asserted my clients minimal role in the offense. After reviewing
the document and the video, the trial judge sentenced my client to seven
years of incarceration.
-
2012: CRIMINAL ASSAULT
- Violent Crimes
The client was involved in a bitter divorce and custody dispute. One of
his wife's friends accused the client of assaulting her. Knowing that
an assault conviction would adversely affect his custody, the client retained
my services to defend him in the criminal
assault
case. Cross examination of the alleged victim revealed numerous inconsistent
statements and her motive to fabricate the story. A judge found the defendant
not guilty.
-
2012: DRUG CRIMES
- Drug Crimes
Police pulled the client over while he was driving his girlfriend home.
Officers testified that they smelled an odor of marijuana when they approached
his vehicle. The officer removed the client from the car and began to
search. Officers found small amount of marijuana in the glove compartment.
At trial I argued that the drugs were located in closer proximity to the
(uncharged) passenger than to the client. No fingerprint or confession
evidence was elicited by the prosecution. Under cross examination the
officers admitted they did not observe the client exercise dominion or
control over the subject marijuana. The court found my client not guilty.
-
2012: ROBBERY, ABDUCTION, & FELONIOUS USE OF A FIREARM
- Criminal Defense
Police officers set up a sting operation to entrap drug dealers using undercover
informants. My client and two others drove to a predetermined location
to meet an informant. When the informant entered my client's car the
occupants of the car robbed the informant at gunpoint. Recognizing that
the informant was in danger, the police descended upon the vehicle and
arrested the occupants. My client was charged with robbery, abduction,
and felonious use of a firearm. He faced a life prison. At trial, under
vigorous cross examination , the informant admitted that although my client
was the driver of the vehicle, the informant could not identify any affirmative
actions that my client undertook during the robbery. A jury found my client
not guilty of all charges.
-
2012: DUI
- DUI
The client, a foreign national visiting friends in Virginia, was arrested
for driving under the influence. Following his arrest the Court forbade
him to leave the state and scheduled the trial for 3 months later. The
client had no friends or family on the way coast. He faced the prospect
of living in hotels for twelve weeks. After he hired me, I advanced the
case on the docket and convinced the prosecutor to lower the charge the
reckless driving. The client was able to leave Virginia and return to
his home country.
-
2012: SEX CRIMES
- Sex Crimes
The client, was a counselor at a group home for teenage girls. One of the
teenage residents accused the client of having sexual intercourse with
her. The client maintained his absolute innocence and refused all plea
offers from the Commonwealth's attorney. The client was aware that
any admission of wrongdoing would effectively end his career. Fully believing
in my client, I requested a trial by jury. At trial, cross-examination
revealed critical contradictions in the complaining witnesses' story.
After a seven hour trial, the jury deliberated for just 22 minutes. The
client was found not guilty.
-
2013: WEAPONS CHARGES
- Criminal Defense
My client was facing criminal penalties after having been involved in a
shootout in a Walmart parking lot in Hampton, VA. The shootout was the
result of a drug sale that went awry and it was reported that a total
of 27 shots were fired. Police arrived on the scene and an 8 hour standoff
took place at a local motel. Despite 2 other defendants receiving stiff
penalties such as 19 years and 8 years of jail time, my client had their
weapon changes dropped (avoiding a mandatory 5 year sentence) and received
a greatly diminished sentence.
-
2013: DUI
- DUI
The client was charged with DUI. Police received complaints concerning
underage drinking at a house party. A police report described the client
as "belligerent...glassy eyed...slurred speech, [and] off balance."
After speaking with police, the client got into his car and tried to move
the vehicle. Police forcefully pulled him from the vehicle and demanded
that he take field sobriety tests. The client refused all tests. Police
placed him under arrest. At trial, an officer testified that the client
had "a strong odor of alcohol". I reminded the court of a 2011
Virginia Court of Appeals decision concerning implied consent and the
inadmissibility of breathalyzer tests acquired from arrests that occur
on private property. I argued that consumption of alcohol did not conclusively
prove impairment. The judge dismissed the case and found the client not guilty.
-
2013: INTERNATIONAL DRUG CRIME
- Drug Crimes
Drug Enforcement Agents found out that my client was involved in a plan
to transport heroin from Dubai, to the U.S. While in England, my client
was arrested after being found to have a suitcase on his person with over
2 kilograms of cocaine. The client was subsequently sentenced to nearly
seven years imprisonment in a UK court. The client then had to face a
trial in a U.S. court, in connection with the same charge. The charges
he faced would have a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years imprisonment.
The client retained my services and at his sentencing hearing, I was able
to present the court with prior cases which showed reduced sentences based
on "time served" in international prisons for the same charge
being heard. Based on this, the client received a greatly reduced sentence
and will not face the mandatory minimum.
-
2013: NOT GUILTY JURY VERDICT
- Drug Crimes
The client was arrested and charged with marijuana possession with intent
to distribute, possession of stolen property and conspiracy to commit
grand larceny. Commonwealth evidence revealed that my client had pawned
stolen items 24 hours after the theft. I convinced the trial court to
sever the charges. At trial on the possession with stolen property case,
cross examination revealed glaring inconsistencies between the lead investigators
testimony and her case notes. I also discovered that an officer had allegedly
attempted to discourage a defense witness's testimony. Ultimately
a defense witness admitted at trial that he committed the crime without
participation from my client. The jury deliberated for less than one hour
-
2013: JURY TRIAL
- Violent Crimes
The client stabbed her husband in the back of his neck. When police responded
they found the client holding a knife standing near her husband as he
lay bleeding on the floor. The client initially told police that an unknown
man had come into their room and stabbed her husband. She later changed
her story and admitted that she had injured him. Prosecutors charged her
with malicious wounding and she faced a maximum of 20 years in prison.
At trial I introduced evidence of the husband's propensity for domestic
violence. A jury rejected the malicious wounding charge and found her
guilty of a lesser offense.
-
2013: NOT GUILTY MARIJUANA VERDICT
- Drug Crimes
Police officer stopped the client at a roadside checkpoint. The officer
testified that she smelled a strong odor of marijuana and found a bag
containing residue in the glove compartment. On cross examination the
officer acknowledged that she only charged the client because she was
the driver of the vehicle. I presented the court with legal precedent
that mere proximity was not sufficient to convict. The passenger was found
guilty. My client driver was found not guilty.
-
2013: DUI DRUG CASE REDUCED TO IMPROPER DRIVING
- Criminal Defense
The client was seen driving across double yellow lines and arrested in
possession of three bags of marijuana. When the police officer attempted
to administer a field sobriety tests, the client complained that the officer
was "ruining [his] buzz". The officer charged the client with
driving under the influence of illegal drugs. Pretrial discovery revealed
that the vials the officer intended to use to collect blood samples were
out of date. Plea negotiations resulted in the Commonwealth reducing the
DUI charge.
-
2011: POSSESSION OF MARIJUANA
- Drug Crimes
The client was charged with possession of marijuana at a music festival
in Virginia Beach. A procedural error revealed that the arresting officer
failed to timely file a copy of the drug analysis report. Upon my motion
to strike, the Court dismissed all charges against the client.
-
2013: ROBBERY AND FIREARM CHARGES DISMISSED
- Theft Crimes
The client was charged with three crimes including robbery and use of a
firearm. He faced mandatory jail time and a potential life sentence. At
the time I was hired he had been denied pretrial release and was being
held without bond. I appealed the bond decision and acquired the client's
release. Rather than waiting for trial I contacted the alleged victim
and thoroughly reviewed his recollection of events. At a pretrial hearing
the alleged victim recanted. He explicitly told the court that my client
had no involvement in the crime. The prosecution moved to nolle prosequi
(or dismiss) all charges.
-
2013: MARIJUANA CHARGE DISMISSED
- Drug Crimes
Client was a passenger in a car during a routine traffic stop. Police officers
located a gun and a jar containing 9 ounces of marijuana. Officers also
found a "roach" cigarette inside a hat that belonged to the
client. The client admitted that the roach was his. Cross-examination
at trial revealed that although police tested the contents of the jar,
they neglected to test the roach to determine whether it contained marijuana.
The trial court ruled that the defendant's mere proximity to the jar
of marijuana was not enough to convict him of possessing that substance.
The court further ruled that without a laboratory result determining the
nature of the contents of the roach the Commonwealth had not proven its case.
-
2013: MARIJUANA CASE DISMISSED
- Drug Crimes
The client was arrested while driving a vehicle that belonged to his girlfriend.
Police approached the car and seized a grinder and a marijuana cigarette
that appeared to have been thrown from the vehicle. At trial I reminded
the court (1) that the arresting officer had failed to deliver a document
to my client advising him of his right to have the alleged drug tested
by a state laboratory and (2) that my clients proximity to the contraband
was not sufficient to prove that he had knowledge of the nature and character
of the illegal substance. I did not represent the passenger. The passenger
was found guilty. My client was found not guilty.
-
2013: COLLEGE STUDENT'S CHARGE DISMISSED
- Criminal Defense
The client is a 20-year-old rising junior at a Virginia University. Local
police seized him at a party and charged him with underage possession
of alcohol. Because this was his second offense, prosecutors refused to
defer disposition. Although the defendant was intoxicated and admitted
drinking the commonwealth's evidence failed to establish the age of
the defendant. When I pointed out this technical deficiency to the court,
the judge granted a motion to strike and dismissed the charge against
the client.
-
2013: FEDERAL 924(c) GUN CHARGE DISMISSED
- Criminal Defense
The client plead guilty to committing a robbery of a convenience store.
Although police did not find a gun federal authorities charged the client
with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. This count involved
a mandatory five-year sentence to be added to the client's imprisonment.
Cross examination at trial exposed the government's inability to prove
an interstate nexus for federal authority. The trial court dismissed that
count for lack of federal jurisdiction.
-
2012: DEFRAUDING NUMEROUS PERSONS
- Theft Crimes
The client, a used car salesman, was accused of defrauding numerous persons.
Local television outlets aired stories alleging that he targeted women
and sold them forged titles with stolen inspection stickers. Prosecutors
charged him with multiple felonies carrying maximum penalties totaling
more than thirty years of incarceration. At trial, cross-examination of
the accusers revealed inconsistencies and motives for them to fabricate.
The client was found not guilty of all felonies and only required to pay
a small fine. His reputation was restored.
-
2013: LARCENY CASE STRICKEN BY JUDGE
- Theft Crimes
The client was charged with fraudulently refusing to return a leased vehicle.
The Commonwealth's Attorney presented evidence that the leaseholder
attempted to repossess the car. I presented the Court with case law revealing
that the Virginia Code considers these types of issues to civil rather
than criminal violations. The court ruled that at as matter of law the
prosecution could not proceed. The judge dismissed all charges.
-
2013: DOMESTIC ASSAULT DISMISSED
- Criminal Defense
Prior to my involvement a general district court found the client guilty
of assaulting a live in girlfriend. The client appealed and hired me.
In a circuit court trial cross examination revealed that the alleged victim
had mental health issues and was taking psychotropic medication at the
time of the alleged assault. Evidence also indicated that the alleged
victim made statements at trial that contradicted a sworn statement to
a magistrate. The Court found the client not guilty of that offense.
-
2013: ABDUCTION CHARGES DISMISSED
- Criminal Defense
The client was charged and arrested for possession of a firearm by a convicted
felon, abduction, kidnapping, and use of a firearm in the commission of
a felony. The client faced 10 years of mandatory minimum jail time and
as much as a life sentence if convicted. After several contentious hearings
I finally convinced a court to release the client on bail. The prosecution
and police theorized that the alleged kidnapping was related to a drug
conspiracy and an unsolved murder in Petersburg. Despite the severity
of the allegations, the evidence did not support these claims. Detailed
investigation revealed significant problems with the prosecutions evidence.
The case was ultimately dismissed at a preliminary hearing without needing
to take the case to trial.
-
2012: FIRST DEGREE MURDER
- Violent Crimes
The Client was charged with first degree murder. He faced a minimum of
20 years and a possible life prison term. I had the Client evaluated by
two leading forensic psychologists. At trial a jury found that the Commonwealth
did not prove malice. The jury convicted him of the lesser offense of
manslaughter. The Defendant is likely to be released in less than three years.
-
2013: FELONY ASSAULT ON POLICE OFFICER CHARGE DISMISSED
- Criminal Defense
The client was charged with assault of police officer in violation of 18.2-57
and being drunk in public. Assault on law enforcement personnel is a Class
6 felony, and upon conviction, the sentence must include a mandatory minimum
6 months of jail time. The client was a Virginia Union University student.
The police alleged that while at a night club the client became intoxicated
and was involved in a fight. As police attempted to break up the fight
Police reports alleged that the client struck an officer. I obtained witness
statements asserting that the officer had been overly aggressive. Additionally,
medical records and photographs of the client demonstrated that the client
sustained injuries consistent with unwarranted physical action from the
police. I presented this information to the Commonwealth's Attorney
prior to a preliminary hearing. The Commonwealth's Attorney declined
to pursue the prosecution. The court dismissed the charges.
-
2013: RAPE CHARGE REDUCED TO MISDEMEANOR
- Sex Crimes
The client was charged with rape under Virginia code section 18.2 –
61. If found guilty he could potentially have served life in prison. Unfortunately
forensic nurse examination reports revealed negative information for the
Client. Realizing that his case need corroborative evidence I secured
potential testimony from crucial witnesses that corroborated my client's
version of events. Shortly after I revealed this information to the prosecution,
the state's attorney offered to reduce the charge to a misdemeanor offense.
-
2013: NOT GUILTY DRUG TRIAL VERDICT
- Drug Crimes
The client was the driver of a car and one of three occupants in a parked
car. Police officers approached and observed thick marijuana smoke filling
the car and emerging from windows. Officers found a "roach"
and initially asserted that all three occupants admitted smoking marijuana.
Cross examination however revealed that my client said, "they"
(rather than "he" was) were smoking. Review of the file revealed
that the police failed to test the alleged marijuana. The passenger and
back seat occupant were found guilty. The judge found reasonable doubt
as to my client. My client was the only defendant found not guilty.
-
2013: AIRPORT WEAPONS CASE RESOLVED AND TO BE DISMISSED
- Criminal Defense
The client was accused of carrying a weapon into an airport terminal in
violation of Virginia Code 18.2-287.01. When he was arrested, the client
made a full confession admitting that he brought a backpack containing
a gun into the terminal. The client was United States military and planning
to attend medical school. He was very concerned about the effect that
a criminal conviction would have on his future. Prior to trial, I met
with the prosecutor. I explained that my client had made a mistake when
packing to board his flight. I further explained that my client's
service and future justified a lighter result. Although the facts were
indisputably sufficient for a finding of guilt, the commonwealth's
attorney agreed to a "deferred disposition." Provided the completion
of a small amount of community service hours the court will dismiss this
charge and the client will not have a permanent conviction on his record.
-
2013: MURDER CHARGE NOLLE PROSEQUI
- Violent Crimes
The client was charged with first-degree murder and several gun possession
offenses. At preliminary hearing the commonwealth's attorney declined
to pursue the murder prosecution. The client was released from jail in
time to be with his family for Christmas.
-
2014: NOT GUILTY JURY VERDICT
- Sex Crimes
The client was charged with two counts of aggravated sexual battery against
a minor. The client is a father of three children. Prior to retaining
my service the client was held in jail for 30 days without bond. His family
life, career, and reputation were decimated. After retaining me the client
was released on bail. I immediately demanded a trial by jury. At trial
the complaining witness made several inconsistent statements. At the conclusion
of the prosecutions case the judge granted a motion I made seeking to
dismiss one of the charges completely. The jury deliberated for less than
an hour on the remaining charge. The client was completely exonerated.
-
2014: FEDERAL MOTION TO REDUCE SENTENCING RANGE GRANTED
- Drug Crimes
The client plead guilty to federal robbery and drug distribution charges.
A pre sentence report asserted that the client should have his sentence
enhanced due to the federal prosecutor's assertion that the client
had a leadership role in the offenses. At a sentencing hearing, the prosecution
called an expert witness and attempted to elicit conclusively testimony
that text messages indicated the client's aggravated role in the drug
distribution crime. I objected to the witness's testimony as his opinions
invaded the province of the Court. The Court agreed. The Court granted
my motion to remove that enhancement and recalculated and reduced the
non mandatory guidelines by more than a third.
-
2014: DRUG CONSPIRACY INDICTMENT DISMISSED
- Drug Crimes
Prosecutors indicted the client following a two month investigation. Police
surveillance video alleged to show the client and a co-defendant involved
in several drug sales. Additionally a police informant asserted that the
client helped arrange and facilitate the illegal transactions. Upon close
inspection, although the video implicated the co-defendants' actions
it was unclear as to my clients criminal role. The co-defendant plead
guilty. On my advice, the client refused to accept plea and appeared in
court ready for trial. On the day of trial, the Commonwealth "nolle-prosequid"
or declined to prosecute the case against my client.
-
2014: MULTIPLE DRUG FELONIES DRASTICALLY REDUCED
- Drug Crimes
The client was charged with 3 drug distribution felonies and faced a maximum
sentence of more than 50 years. The client had a prior drug conviction.
Pre-trial investigation revealed problems with witness availability for
the Commonwealth. In a pre-trial plea agreement, the prosecution agreed
to completely dismiss 2 felony counts. The remaining count was reduced
from a felony to a drug paraphernalia charge. The client never served
a day in jai. The only punishment was a $100 fine.
-
2013: NOT GUILTY JURY VERDICT
- Criminal Defense
The client was charged with multiple counts of malicious wounding and assault
by mob. independent eyewitnesses alleged that my client and others viciously
attacked the victim. The victim was hospitalized for several days with
bruised bones and internal injuries. At trial I highlighted inconsistencies
with commonwealth witnesses. I also presented testimony from several defense
witnesses that inculcated the alleged co-defendants. My client was acquitted
of all charges. In a separate trial the codefendant was found guilty of
all charges.
-
2014: MURDER CHARGE NOLLE PROSEQUI
- Violent Crimes
The client was charged with 1st degree murder. Investigation revealed that
the client had been shot by the alleged victim. Medical records showed
shots in the clients backside. I presented this information to the prosecution
and asserted that a self defense case would prevail at trial. At preliminary
hearing, the prosecution declined to prosecute the murder case. The client
was released from incarceration.
-
2014: DRUG DISTRIBUTION CHARGES NEGOTIATED DISMISSAL
- Drug Crimes
The client was found in a hotel room with significant amounts of heroin
and cocaine in her purse. Both substance exceeded what could be argued
was for personal use. The client faced two felony charges and as much
as 40 years' incarceration. Prior to trial I discussed the matter
with the prosecutor. I reminded him of Virginia code section that allows
for certain types of felony drug possession cases to be resolved without
a conviction. After negotiation, the prosecutor agreed to dismiss one
count and amend the other so that the client would be eligible for a first
offender program. If the client completes community service and a drug
program all charges will be dismissed.
-
2014: NOT GUILTY MARIJUANA TRIAL
- Drug Crimes
Police executed a search warrant at the client's home. Officers found
scales, smoking devices, and several filled packages containing a green
leafy substance. At trial evidence revealed that although police tested
the substances found in the common areas, the police neglected to test
contraband that was found in the client's bedroom. The Court dismissed
the charge against the client.
-
2014: DISTRIBUTION OF MARIJUANA CHARGE REDUCED - WIPED FROM RECORD
- Drug Crimes
Drug sniffing K-9 units alerted to his vehicle following a late night traffic
stop. Drugs were found in the clients pocket. Police found a large sum
of money, scales and other indicia of drug distribution throughout the
car. In general district court the client was found guilty. I appealed
the case and negotiated a resolution to take the case under advisement,
dismiss the case, and keep the client's record free from any conviction.
-
2014: NOT GUILTY TRIAL VERDICT MULTIPLE ASSAULTS
- Violent Crimes
The client was charged with assaulting his landlord and his wife. The landlord
and wife called police and claimed that the Client and several others
attacked them. When police arrived, the Client was seen running from the
house and was apprehend in a nearby alley. Cross examination: (1) impeached
the credibility of each witness and (2) revealed inconsistencies crucial
to the governments case. The Court dismissed all charges.
-
2014: DRUG CHARGES NOLLE PROS
- Drug Crimes
The Client was in a vehicle with two other occupants. Police found a substantial
amounts of marijuana and several items indicating drug distribution. At
the arrest scene, a narcotics detective questioned occupants of the vehicle.
One of the occupants admitted to participating in a drug conspiracy. After
that admission police charged everyone with multiple felony and misdemeanor
offenses. I negotiated with the prosecutor. I pointed out that my client
made no incriminatory statements and no physical indicated her knowledge
of the drugs at issue. The prosecutor dismissed the charges prior to trial.
-
2015: ASSAULT CONVICTION OVERTURNED ON APPEAL
- Violent Crimes
The client hired me after she was sentenced to serve 3 months jail time
in District Court for assaulting a woman involved in a love triangle.
I appealed the case to circuit court. In circuit court cross examination
of the alleged victim revealed inconsistencies in her story. The judge
commented that although he suspected the client may have committed the
crime the evidence was not sufficient beyond a reasonable doubt. The charge
was dismissed.
-
2015: STRANGULATION, ABDUCTION, AND DOMESTIC CASES DISMISSED
- Violent Crimes
The client was charged with multiple felonies arising out of a incident
involving his girlfriend. Investigation led to the conclusion that the
contact between the victim and client was the result of mutual combat.
In pretrial discussions, the Commonwealth revealed inconsistent statements
from the alleged victim. At a scheduled pre-trial hearing, the court dismissed
all charges against the client.
-
2015: ASSAULT CASE NOT GUILTY
- Violent Crimes
The client was involved in a long contentious rivalry with a neighbor. The neighbor accused the client of assaulting him while both men were waiting at a gas station. At trial, cross examination revealed crucial holes in the accusing witnesses' story. The Court dismissed the case.