WASHINGTON, D.C. — A 24-year-old man has been indicted on multiple felony charges after allegedly strangling and assaulting his former girlfriend during a violent New Year’s Day encounter, federal prosecutors announced Friday.

Byron Ajanel, of Washington, D.C., was indicted on March 26, 2025, on charges of strangulation, assault with significant bodily injury, and making threats, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Metropolitan Police Department.

Ajanel is scheduled to be arraigned on May 13 before D.C. Superior Court Judge Judith Pipe.

According to prosecutors, the assault occurred on January 1, 2025, during an argument between Ajanel and the victim. Authorities allege that Ajanel pushed the victim to the ground, placed both hands around her neck and strangled her, punched her in the face, and issued threats.

The indictment includes a felony charge of strangulation under the Secure D.C. Omnibus Amendment Act of 2024, which elevated the offense to a felony due to its recognized lethality in cases of intimate partner violence.

Prosecutors highlighted data showing strangulation’s serious and long-term dangers, noting, “Most abusers do not strangle to kill. They strangle to show they can kill.”

Ajanel remains in custody pending his arraignment as the case proceeds through the judicial process.

Key Points:

Byron Ajanel, 24, indicted for strangulation and assault of ex-girlfriend on January 1, 2025
Strangulation is now classified as a felony under D.C.’s 2024 law due to its severity
Ajanel is scheduled to be arraigned on May 13 in D.C. Superior Court

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