D.C. woman found guilty again in Rockville stabbing of her “best friend”
A Montgomery County jury has once again found Sophia Negroponte guilty of second-degree murder in the 2020 death of Yousuf Rasmussen, reaffirming the original verdict that was overturned earlier in 2024. With the renewed conviction, Negroponte faces a potential sentence of up to 35 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for February 19, 2026.
Negroponte, the daughter of former U.S. Director of National Intelligence John Negroponte, was first arrested on February 13, 2020, following an incident at a residence on West Montgomery Avenue in Rockville. According to court records, officers responded to an emergency call and discovered that a serious altercation had taken place inside the home. Rasmussen, 24, did not survive the incident despite efforts by first responders.
During the trial, prosecutors presented testimony describing the events leading up to the altercation. Witnesses reported that the two had been socializing earlier in the evening and engaged in an argument shortly before the incident occurred. Court filings state that Rasmussen briefly left the residence but returned after realizing he had forgotten his cellphone. Moments later, the situation escalated, resulting in the fatal encounter.
Negroponte told investigators that she did not fully recall the details, stating she became aware of the severity of the situation only after the incident had unfolded. Her legal team argued that her memory loss and emotional state should be considered, but jurors ultimately sided with the prosecution’s interpretation of the evidence.
Following the renewed conviction, Rasmussen’s family released a public statement honoring his memory. They described him as a kind and thoughtful person whose presence had a lasting positive impact on those around him. The family also expressed gratitude to Montgomery County officials, prosecutors, victim advocates, first responders, and community members who supported them throughout the legal process.
The case, which has drawn regional and national attention due to the individuals involved, now moves into the sentencing phase. Officials have stated that no additional information will be released until the court proceedings continue in early 2026.
