Former Black Congressman Surrenders on Aggravated Assault Charge

HOUSTON -- Former U.S. Congressman Craig Washington spoke out Friday for the first time since he allegedly fired a gun at a couple of teenagers.Washington was indicted this week on one charge of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. He turned himself in overnight, paid his bond and went home.

Later, Washington stood outside the county courthouse surrounded by supporters, including several fellow attorneys. The former congressman said he has faith that the justice system will work when his case goes to trial.

Washington was indicted for allegedly firing a gun at a car carrying two 18-year-old males. It was New Year's Eve and the teens' car was in the parking lot of Washington's law offices. Washington said they were trespassing. The teens argued they were just passing through to go to a nightclub. If convicted, Washington could face 20 years in prison.

Washington was elected as a Democrat to the 101st United States Congress for Texas's 18th congressional district, by special election, December 9, 1989, to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Mickey Leland. He was reelected to the 102nd United States Congress and 103rd United States Congress and served from December 9, 1989, to January 3, 1995. In March, 1994, Washington was unsuccessful in his renomination bid to the 104th United States Congress. Sheila Jackson Lee defeated the incumbent congressman in the Democratic primary for the 18th Congressional District of Texas. [MORE]