WASHINGTON — A D.C. judge set a trial date Tuesday for a man accused of attacking someone at a Metro station earlier this year.
Elijah Smith is charged with felony assault. Police say he punched a 69-year old man on an escalator at the Eastern Market Metro Station in April. The victim collapsed with serious injuries and had to be taken to the hospital.
In D.C. Superior Court, Smith smiled as he rejected a plea deal, saying he wanted to go to trial.
Judge Anita Josey-Herring scolded him, telling Smith this was no laughing matter. She set a trial date of Sept. 17.
Also, the judge assigned Smith a new attorney after he requested one.
In addition to the assault count, Smith is facing a charge of felony contempt. He was let out of jail in May, but he violated the terms of his release.
Smith is now being held without bond.
