Shon Hopwood is a reputation that’s usually celebrated throughout the authorized career as a case of true legal reform. In case you’re not acquainted with him, Hopwood served more than a decade in federal prison for financial institution theft however he went on to go to regulation college, and later grew to become a professor at Georgetown Legislation, probably the most prestigious regulation colleges within the nation.
Hopwood mentored Tiffany Trump throughout her time at Georgetown, and even assisted within the growth of the First Step Act, a federal jail and sentencing reform invoice that Trump signed into regulation throughout his first time period, however issues took a flip for him in 2023, when he was arrested and accused of some moderately disturbing allegations of domestic violence. Hopwood — who’s presently on depart from the regulation college — was not too long ago convicted, and now stands to return to jail. The Washington Post has further particulars:
[Hopwood] was convicted Friday of assaulting his spouse, ignoring a choose’s order to avoid her and attempting to get her to drop the costs towards him.
A D.C. Superior Courtroom jury of eight males and 4 girls discovered Hopwood responsible of 11 out of 12 costs. Hopwood, who was launched from custody shortly after his arrest in 2023, confirmed no emotion because the verdicts have been learn, chewing gum as he sat subsequent to his lawyer.
Though Hopwood promised that he wouldn’t flee, Choose Errol Arthur ordered him jailed pending sentencing, which is presently scheduled for September 18.
“Shon Hopwood made his spouse imagine she was nugatory and loopy and positioned her in an invisible cage and needed to guard his picture because the comeback child,” Assistant U.S. Legal professional Katherine Ballou instructed the jury throughout trial. “You, girls and gents, may help her escape of that cage for good.”
Hopwood and his spouse, who can be an lawyer, at the moment are separated. He might face a number of years behind bars, and his sentence might be additional enhanced because of his prior offenses.
For those who’re concerned in a verbally or bodily abusive relationship, there are associates, household, and colleagues you possibly can name. For those who’re a sufferer of home violence, please attain out in the event you need assistance, earlier than it’s too late. For those who really feel that you’re in fast hazard, please name the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
Former robber turned law professor in D.C. found guilty of assaulting wife [Washington Post]
Earlier: Prominent Georgetown Law Professor Arrested, Charged In Domestic Violence Case

Staci Zaretsky is a senior editor at Above the Legislation, the place she’s labored since 2011. She’d love to listen to from you, so please be happy to email her with any ideas, questions, feedback, or critiques. You may observe her on Bluesky, X/Twitter, and Threads, or join along with her on LinkedIn.