WASHINGTON — A D.C. man was convicted of numerous charges, including assault with a dangerous weapon, for repeatedly hitting a woman he was once in a relationship with.
According to the United States Attorney for the District of Columbia, 36-year-old Barrington Hart was found guilty Friday of two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon (Firearm), two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, one count of assault with significant bodily injury while armed, two counts of obstruction, one count of threats, one count of unlawful possession of a firearm (prior conviction), one count of simple assault, and one count of carrying a pistol without a license.
Investigators say Hart was in a romantic relationship with the victim. The two broke up but then reunited for four days in July 2023. During this time, the two got into an argument.
Hart accused the victim of cheating on him and demanded to look through her phone. When she refused, Hart grabbed a black and yellow gun and struck the victim in the head. Despite the victim having an open, bleeding wound on her head, Hart forced her to come with him to a job interview rather than the hospital.
The victim later sought medical help, which required nine staples to the top of her head. She then reported the assault to the Metropolitan Police Department.
Less than a week later, the victim called police again. She reported that the night before, Hart started an argument with her about seeing other people. During the fight, he slapped her and pointed the same black and yellow gun at her. She was able to sneak out the next morning and call for help.
Hart was arrested on August 4, 2023. Despite his arrest, Hart continued to try to control the victim. Officials say he instructed her, twice, over Department of Corrections Video Visits, to refrain from testifying in the grand jury. While he was still incarcerated, Hart also threatened the victim via numerous text messages.
Hart will return to court for sentencing on May 31.
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