Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 30-year-old Afghan national, pleaded not guilty to all charges in a 17-count federal indictment during his first court appearance on Tuesday. The indictment, unsealed by the Department of Justice (DOJ), includes charges of first-degree murder in connection with the shooting of National Guard members near the White House in November. Lakanwal is accused of killing Specialist Sarah Beckstrom and injuring Guardsman Andrew Wolfe. Prosecutors stated that the charges make the case eligible for the death penalty. U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro emphasized the seriousness of the crime, stating it is a major offense against the United States. Lakanwal appeared in court in a wheelchair, recovering from injuries sustained during the incident. The DOJ plans to begin the death penalty review process, with the final decision to be made by Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. The next status hearing is scheduled for September 16.
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Suspect in Shooting of National Guard Members Pleads Not Guilty
Rahmanullah Lakanwal, accused of a shooting that killed National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom and injured Andrew Wolfe, pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including first-degree murder. The Department of Justice has indicated that the case may be eligible for the death penalty, with a review process to begin soon.
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Rahmanullah Lakanwal
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DC Guard shooting suspect stares down death penalty in first court appearance
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Suspect in Shooting of National Guard Members Pleads Not Guilty