Polygamist leader Warren Jeffs has elected to represent himself in his pending Texas trials, foregoing a professional lawyer.
Presiding judge Barbara Walthers continually advised Jeffs to consider other options, but eventually allowed the request. Jeffs reportedly made statements with long, drawn out pauses, prompting some concern. Judge Walthers had to make the decision to plead not guilty on Jeffs’ behalf, as when asked to make his plea, he remained silent. Jeffs’ charges include sexual assault on two underaged girls. If convicted, he could face life in prison.
