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Defendant to represent himself in Wisconsin parade trial

Darrell Brooks has no legal training but will get the opportunity to cross-examine victims

By
Roses lean on a concrete structure in a park.
Flowers left at Veteran’s Park in memory of victims of the Christmas parade tragedy on Monday, Nov. 22, 2021, in Waukesha, Wis. Angela Major/WPR

A Wisconsin man accused of killing six people and injuring dozens more when he allegedly drove his SUV through a Christmas parade in suburban Milwaukee last year is set to go on trial Monday.

Darrell Brooks faces nearly 80 charges in the 2021 disaster in Waukesha.

Prosecutors promised to present extensive video of the SUV plowing through the crowd, and the trial had looked like a straightforward proceeding.

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But the judge last week allowed Brooks to represent himself. Brooks has no legal training but will get the opportunity to cross-examine victims, police officers and anyone else who testifies.

Legal experts warn it could quickly become chaotic and painful for witnesses.

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