U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro has announced federal charges against two suspects in a violent assault that targeted Edward Coristine, known as “Big Balls,” and another victim, Ethan Levine, in Washington, D.C. The accused, 19-year-old Laurence Cotton-Powell and 18-year-old Anthony Taylor, face multiple counts of assault and robbery.
Pirro highlighted the case’s disturbing details during a press conference, emphasizing that Cotton-Powell, a repeat offender, had previously been granted probation by a judge despite a felony attempted robbery conviction. Within days of his release, he allegedly committed another crime, attacking Levine and Coristine on the same night. “After a felony of attempted robbery, violation of probation, second crime, and second conviction, the judges said, ‘Do better,’ and they let him go. Within 10 days, he’s at it again,” Pirro stated.
The incident has drawn public outrage, particularly after a separate judge sentenced two minors to probation for their role in Coristine’s assault, avoiding jail time. Cotton-Powell was arrested in October 2024 on robbery charges, while Taylor’s criminal history remains unclear. Pirro presented evidence linking both suspects to the attacks, which occurred within minutes of each other.
The case has intensified scrutiny of D.C.’s judicial system, with critics condemning leniency toward repeat offenders. Pirro’s office is investigating further connections between the suspects and prior crimes.
