WASHINGTON – Stephen Claude Rattigan, also known as Julius James, 48, of Washington, D.C., faces severe charges including assault with intent to kill while armed and animal cruelty after a violent confrontation with police officers. U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Metropolitan Police Department Chief Pamela Smith announced the charges following an incident that led to three officers being shot and an extensive standoff in Southeast D.C.
Rattigan’s initial court appearance occurred today before Superior Court Magistrate Judge Renee Raymond, where he was ordered to be held without bond. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for February 29, 2024, before Judge Maribeth Raffinan.
The charges stem from a February 14, 2024, incident when Metropolitan Police Department officers went to Rattigan’s home to execute an arrest warrant related to a prior animal cruelty complaint. This complaint was based on April 2023 footage showing Rattigan assaulting one of his dogs.
Further visits by Animal Control and the Humane Society in January 2024 highlighted concerns over the number of animals at the residence and their living conditions.
Upon attempting to arrest Rattigan, he fired at the officers, leading to a standoff lasting over 12 hours before his arrest. Post-arrest, 31 dogs were removed from his premises. The injured officers are currently in stable condition.