Practicing law in a metropolitan area, it is common for a DC criminal lawyer to represent a number of people who have been accused of criminal charges, including misdemeanor or felony gun charges. Even celebrities in the Washington DC area are not exempt from arrest on these charges, as seen by the example of Washington Wizards player Gilbert Arenas, 28. In January, Arenas pled guilty to a felony count of violating DC gun laws when he brought firearms into the team locker room after a locker-room confrontation occurred between him and his teammate, Javaris Crittenton. As he faces sentencing for the charge on Friday, DC prosecutors have asked that he be slapped with a number of punishments, including a period of jail time.
In a memo released Tuesday from the District’s U.S. Attorney Office, DC prosecutors have stated that they were seeking six months jail time, and three months suspension for the basketball player. Assistant United States Attorney, Christopher Kavanaugh, described Arenas as a thuggish instigator who not only tried to pressure his teammate to cover-up the allegations, but also as someone who had little remorse for what the have done. Additionally, they want Arenas to receive three years probation and over three hundred hours of community service for the DC gun charges.
However, many debate whether the prosecution’s description of Arenas as well as the recommended punishment is appropriate. According to his DC criminal attorney, the basketball player is a peaceful man who participated in a “misguided prank” and had no intention of being violent. Arenas has already received severe punishments from the National Basketball Association for his involvement in the DC gun violation, including a fifty game suspension and a $7 million fine. Therefore, the defense argued that he was deserving of an extended probation period and community service–not a half a year of jail time.
Arenas will be seen by the DC Superior Court and Judge Robert E. Morin on March 26th for sentencing.
Because accused of DC gun charges is an overwhelming and difficult process for anyone to go through, regardless of celebrity status. Conviction of criminal charges in Washington DC could have life-changing consequences, including the loss of driving privileges, fines, and/or jail time. For the best protection of your personal liberties and freedoms, it is essential to contact a hard-working and experienced DC gun lawyer for assistance. Doing so can provide the best legal advice and legal representation, as well as help ensure the most successful outcome for your case.
