John Brown III, a 32-year-old resident of Washington, D.C., was found guilty by a jury of assault with significant bodily injury. The incident occurred on July 4, 2023, in Southeast Washington, D.C. This announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr., and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department.
The verdict was delivered on February 25, 2025, after a trial in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. Brown was also convicted on three counts of obstructing justice and seven counts of contempt for trying to prevent the victim from participating in the court process. Sentencing is scheduled for May 16, 2025, by The Honorable Deborah Israel.
Evidence presented by the government revealed that during a small game night hosted by the victim on July 4, 2023, Brown attacked her despite their relationship having ended. He accused her of being involved with one of his friends and proceeded to physically assault her. A friend who remained at the party intervened when he heard the commotion. Although the victim attempted to escape, Brown continued his attack until she and her friend managed to call for police assistance. The victim received treatment at a hospital for injuries sustained during the incident.
Despite a court order prohibiting contact with the victim, Brown attempted to influence her through friends and family to drop charges against him. These actions led to convictions for obstructing justice and violating a court order.
U.S. Attorney Martin and Chief Smith acknowledged those involved in investigating the case from the Metropolitan Police Department as well as Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah Roessler and Amanda Swanson from the Domestic Violence Felonies Unit who prosecuted it.