It started in a Phoenix parking lot. It ended in a courtroom. And for Donjané Smith, a 25-year-old pregnant woman, it almost led to a 30-year prison sentence. What began as a verbal spat spiraled into a shocking legal saga that tested the boundaries of justice, self-defense, and prosecutorial discretion.
A Routine Night Turns Into a Nightmare
On January 21, 2021, Smith encountered her partner, James Runnels, during a tense argument outside a convenience store. Smith, who had carried a machete in her car for personal safety for over five years, reached for the weapon during the escalating fight. Surveillance footage later revealed a critical detail: Runnels spat on Smith moments before making contact with the blade. His injury? A minor cut on his hand—treated with no medical intervention.
Despite the injury being slight and Runnels choosing not to press charges, the police arrested Smith. What she thought was a defensive act to protect herself quickly became a high-stakes criminal charge. Prosecutors hit her with two counts of aggravated assault, each carrying 15-year sentences.
A Life in Limbo
Facing the horrifying possibility of delivering her baby in prison, Smith was left stunned. “Are you kidding me? This cannot be happening,” she reportedly told officers at the scene. Her attorney, Robert J. Campos, was equally outraged.
The prosecution initially offered a plea deal: a reduced charge with no prison time—but only if Smith accepted it before seeing any of the evidence. Campos didn’t hesitate to reject the offer. “There was no way I was going to have my client plead guilty without reviewing the case against her,” he stated.
Weapon of Protection, Not Aggression
The machete was not a weapon of war but a tool of personal safety. Given to her by a family friend for protection during late-night shifts, it had sat unused in her vehicle for five years. “It fit perfectly next to my seatbelt,” Smith said. Until that night, it had never left its spot.
During court proceedings, Runnels testified in Smith’s defense. “If she was really trying to get me, she could’ve got me,” he admitted, noting the blade’s size. He even confessed that his own actions that night weren’t innocent: “I was about to beat her up.”
Justice Finally Prevails
The evidence mounted, not against Smith—but against the case itself. Judge Michael Kemp, after hearing the testimony and reviewing the facts, dismissed all charges before the jury could even deliberate. Smith walked free, but the emotional toll was lasting.
She is now expecting her second child—with Runnels.
Faith Over Fear
Though the machete remains in police custody, Smith says she no longer needs it. “I keep my faith in God,” she shared. “I have a child now. I don’t want to be in defense mode.”
Her story is more than just a courtroom victory. It’s a powerful reminder of the blurred line between protection and prosecution. In a justice system that often rushes to judgment, Smith’s case underscores the importance of evidence, intention, and context.
FAQs
Was the machete ever used before the incident?
No, Smith carried it for five years for self-defense and never used it until that night.
Did the victim press charges?
No, James Runnels did not want to press charges and testified in Smith’s defense.
Why did the judge dismiss the case?
The judge found the evidence overwhelmingly favored the defense, including the minor nature of the injury and Runnels’ testimony.
Was Smith offered a plea deal?
Yes, but it came with the condition that she accept it before reviewing any prosecution evidence, which her attorney rejected.
Is Smith still with Runnels?
Yes, they are expecting their second child together.
Where is the machete now?
It is still in police custody, but Smith no longer carries it.