Judge allows Darrell Brooks to represent HIMSELF at his homicide trial

A judge has allowed a Wisconsin man accused of killing six people and injuring dozens more when he allegedly drove his SUV through a Christmas parade represent himself at trial.

It was found that Darrell Brooks, 40, suffers from a personality disorder and that while he could face an uphill battle against an experienced prosecutorial team, he is mentally fit.

Waukesha County Circuit Judge Jennifer Dorow's decision leaves Brooks in the unusual position of defending himself against a score of charges, including six counts of intentional homicide.

His trial is scheduled to begin Monday with jury selection.

The 40-year-old has a high school equivalency diploma but did not attend college. Dorow said he has a constitutional right to act as his own attorney if he's mentally competent.

Dorow said she reviewed evaluations four psychologists conducted of Brooks and agreed with their findings that while he has a personality disorder and is disruptive, he is intelligent and articulate enough to defend himself.

She warned him that he will have problems understanding the rules of evidence, when to object to rulings and how to examine witnesses without any training, but she can't stand in his way.

'This court has warned Mr. Brooks what he's getting into,' Dorow said.

According to prosecutors and investigators, Brooks drove his SUV through a Christmas parade in downtown Waukesha on Nov. 21 2021.

Its alleged that he refused commands to stop and kept driving, running people down, even as police officers shot at his vehicle, according to a criminal complaint.... (Read more)

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