DC man indicted for New Year's Day strangulation and assault of ex-girlfriend

A 24-year-old man named Byron Ajanel has been indicted on multiple felony charges related to a violent incident with his former girlfriend on New Year's Day. The U.S. Attorney's Office and the Metropolitan Police Department announced the indictment, which includes charges of strangulation, significant bodily injury assault, and making threats.

Ajanel, a resident of Washington, D.C., was formally indicted on March 26, 2025, and his arraignment is set for May 13 before D.C. Superior Court Judge Judith Pipe. The legal proceedings are expected to progress as he remains in custody.

The alleged assault took place during an argument on January 1, 2025, where prosecutors claim Ajanel physically overpowered the victim by pushing her to the ground and then strangling her. In addition to the strangulation, he reportedly punched her in the face and made threatening remarks.

The charges include a felony count of strangulation in accordance with the Secure D.C. Omnibus Amendment Act of 2024, highlighting the severity of strangulation as a crime in domestic violence situations. This legislative change recognizes the heightened danger associated with such acts, classifying it as a felony due to its potential lethality.

Prosecutors emphasized the serious nature of strangulation, warning that it is often used to exert control rather than necessarily intended to kill. As the case unfolds, Ajanel's custody status will be reviewed alongside the prosecution of the charges against him.