An 18-year-old from Washington, D.C., has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for committing two violent crimes: an armed carjacking and a separate armed robbery. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia announced that Demonta King pleaded guilty to both charges before Superior Court Judge Jennifer Di Toro.
Guilty Plea and Sentencing
King admitted to one count of armed carjacking and one count of armed robbery. Judge Di Toro imposed a 15-year prison term, followed by five years of supervised release.
Prosecutors had urged the court to impose a 22-year sentence, citing the severity of the crimes and the risk posed to the community. King’s defense requested sentencing under the Youth Rehabilitation Act, which could have allowed for a reduced sentence and record sealing, but the court rejected the request.
The 2024 Carjacking Incident
The most recent crime occurred in November 2024 in northeast Washington. According to court documents, King targeted a taxicab driver who was standing a few feet from his vehicle. Brandishing a knife, King demanded, “Give me everything.”
During the confrontation, King stabbed the driver in the hand, stole the cab, and fled with the victim’s personal belongings. The escape ended shortly after King crashed the stolen vehicle and fled on foot, leading to his arrest.
Earlier Armed Robbery in 2022
Prosecutors also tied King to an earlier violent crime committed when he was 16 years old. In August 2022, King carried out an armed robbery near the 100 block of Gallatin Street and 1st Place NE.
Court records show that King pointed a firearm at a victim, demanded a backpack and cell phone, and then struck the individual in the face with the gun before fleeing. Despite his age, King was prosecuted as an adult under Title 16 due to the seriousness of the offense.
Community Impact and Official Statements
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro and Metropolitan Police Chief Pamela Smith praised investigators and prosecutors for their work in securing the conviction. They emphasized the importance of addressing violent crimes that endanger residents and erode public trust in neighborhood safety.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacob Greene, who prosecuted the case, was credited in the Justice Department’s report for his role in bringing the matter to resolution. Officials said the outcome highlights their office’s commitment to ensuring accountability in cases of violent crime.
A Lesser Sentence but Serious Consequences
Although prosecutors argued for a lengthier 22-year term, the 15-year sentence still represents a substantial punishment. With five years of supervised release to follow, King will remain under legal oversight well into adulthood.
For residents of Washington, the case underscores the city’s ongoing struggle with youth involvement in violent crime. Authorities hope the sentence sends a message that armed robberies and carjackings will not be tolerated, regardless of a defendant’s age.
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