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 . 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.
