President Donald Trump and technology entrepreneur Elon Musk expressed strong criticism on Tuesday after two 15-year-olds charged in connection with the assault of former Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) staffer Edward Coristine — known publicly by the nickname “Big Balls” — avoided jail time following a ruling in Washington, D.C..
The decision was issued by Associate Judge Kendra Briggs of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. The outcome has prompted debate among political leaders and members of the public regarding juvenile justice policies and public safety. The incident occurred in August when Coristine was assaulted during an attempted carjacking in the Logan Circle neighborhood of Washington, D.C., while he was accompanied by a woman. Authorities reported that two 15-year-old suspects fled the scene shortly after the attack but were later apprehended by law enforcement. Following the incident, President Trump called for stronger federal oversight of the nation’s capital, stating it was “time to federalize D.C.” He subsequently authorized the deployment of National Guard personnel throughout the city. The administration has also explored expanding similar federal measures to other cities governed by Democratic leadership, including Chicago and Portland, though those proposals have faced legal challenges. During Tuesday’s hearing, Judge Briggs—who was appointed during the administration of Joe Biden—sentenced the two juveniles to probation after both pleaded guilty to simple assault. The male defendant received 12 months of probation and was ordered to serve that time under home confinement. The female defendant received nine months of probation and was placed in a youth shelter. In addition, the court ordered that the two individuals have no contact with each other and restricted their presence in the District of Columbia except for school, employment, or family-related obligations. According to local broadcaster WUSA9, Judge Briggs emphasized that the juvenile justice system prioritizes rehabilitation. She stated that the court hopes the defendants will learn from the experience and avoid future involvement with the criminal justice system.
