WASHINGTON – The U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia has announced charges against two teenagers in connection with a series of highly publicized and brutal street attacks that targeted two former government employees. The case has drawn attention to youth crime and the judicial system's handling of repeat offenders in the nation's capital.

During a press conference on Monday, U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro identified Lawrence Cotton Powell, 19, and Anthony Taylor, 18, as the individuals facing charges of first-degree robbery and assault with intent to commit robbery, according to a report from Breitbart. The charges stem from an August 3rd assault on 22-year-old Ethan Levine, a former Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) staffer.

The incident involving Levine was followed minutes later by an assault and attempted carjacking of another former DOGE employee, 19-year-old Edward Coristine. Pirro stated the case highlights “the need for accountability among young offenders in the district” and the escalating crime challenges facing the city.

A Night of Brutal Street Violence

The series of events unfolded in the early morning hours of August 3, 2025, in the U Street and 14th Street corridor, a popular nightlife area. Pirro explained that at approximately 2:53 a.m., Ethan Levine and his friends were standing outside a Sunoco gas station when they were confronted and assaulted by a large group of teens.

During the assault, Powell was allegedly seen "stomping on Levine’s head," as depicted on a poster displayed at the press conference. Although Levine managed to get up momentarily, the crowd pursued him, brought him down again, and continued the attack while he was on the ground.

Following the prolonged assault, the attackers proceeded to rob Levine, stealing his sneakers and his watch. The group then moved on from the scene, walking in the direction of where a second violent crime would occur just minutes later.

Second Attack and Attempted Carjacking

The group of suspects, including Powell and Taylor, quickly found their next target in the 1400 block of Swan Street Northwest. Edward Coristine, who had left his position at DOGE in June, was walking a young woman to her car when he was approached by approximately 10 individuals.

Reacting quickly to protect his companion, Coristine pushed the young woman into the car just before the group launched their attack on him. He was then punched repeatedly by multiple suspects, which resulted in him sustaining significant injuries during the violent encounter.

While Coristine was being assaulted on the ground, members of the group turned their attention to the vehicle. They demanded the car from the woman inside, but she had already managed to lock the doors, thwarting the attempted carjacking as the assailants were unable to gain entry.

Suspect's Prior Criminal Record Scrutinized

During the press conference, Pirro placed significant emphasis on the criminal history of Lawrence Cotton Powell, who now faces charges for robbery, assault, and attempted carjacking. She revealed that Powell had been sentenced just months earlier, in April, for a separate "felony attempted robbery."

Despite the serious nature of the prior felony, a judge granted Powell probation, a decision made against the recommendation of the prosecutor's office. “My office asked for jail time,” Pirro noted, highlighting the judicial leniency Powell had previously received.

This leniency proved short-lived, as Powell allegedly re-offended while on probation. “Within 31 days, by May 4, Powell re-offends,” Pirro stated. “He’s rearrested while he’s on probation from the felony, and he’s charged with simple assault and possession of a prohibited weapon,” which prompted her office to unsuccessfully request that his probation be revoked.

Lessons to Learn

There are several important takeaways from these tragic incidents, and they serve as stark reminders about personal safety and public accountability:

1. Awareness is critical in vulnerable situations. Levine and Coristine were both attacked late at night in relatively public places. Knowing your surroundings and staying in well-lit areas may help reduce exposure to risks, though unfortunately, crime can still happen anywhere to anyone.

2. The justice system’s handling of prior offenses matters. Powell’s prior convictions and re-offending while on probation raise questions about judicial discretion. Advocating for stricter enforcement of existing laws may help reduce repeat offenses.

3. Juvenile sentencing must balance accountability with rehabilitation. While it's essential not to stigmatize youth permanently, violent crimes demand serious consequences. The community must support both preventive intervention programs and proportionate justice responses. Still, it is vital to remember that crime can strike despite our best precautions, and victims are never to blame.

Why This Story Matters

The assaults on Levine and Coristine highlight the surge in youth-involved violent crime and the real-world implications of lenient sentencing policies. These events sparked citywide debate about public safety, prosecutorial decisions, and the legal system’s preparedness to handle repeat offenders. When violent criminals are allowed back on the streets without sufficient supervision, entire communities are put at risk. D.C. residents deserve safety without fear, especially in public, late-night areas such as those near U Street. This story continues to fuel discussions among city officials and residents about reform, accountability, and the value of prevention in curbing teen violence.

Conclusion

On August 3, 2025, Ethan Levine, a former DOGE staffer, was violently attacked and robbed near a D.C. gas station. Minutes later, another ex-DOGE staffer, Edward Coristine, was beaten by the same group during an attempted carjacking. Lawrence Powell and Anthony Taylor are among those now charged with first-degree robbery and assault with the intent to rob, while two juveniles involved have received probation. Powell’s prior arrest and recent re-offense have added urgency to the ongoing debate about the handling of repeat youth offenders. The twin assaults not only shocked the city but also drew commentary from national figures, including Donald Trump, amplifying calls for action amid a surge in violent incidents across the district.