District Attorney on Challenges of Brooks Trial

Thursday, October 27th, 2022 -- 2:00 PM

(Bob Hague, WRN) Despite overwhelming evidence, the trial of Waukesha Christmas Parade attacker Darrell Brooks was a challenge for prosecutors.

At a post-verdict press conference, District Attorney Susan Opper said Brooks’ disruptive behavior as he represented himself at trial was deliberate. “We truly believe that. He did everything he can except claim that the dog ate his homework.”

Opper said her team remained focused on the victims of the tragedy, and their families. “They were a tremendous group of people to work for, and it was our honor to represent them and be a voice for them in the court.”

Opper discussed more challenges in prosecuting Brooks. “Again, the difficulty and the challenges we faced was, what nonsense was going to come out of his mouth next. And we were anticipating much of what would come next and being ready, legally with case law and legal authority to be able to respond to that.”

Brooks, who represented himself, was continually disruptive in court. Jurors on Wednesday found Brooks guilty of all 76 charges against him in the SUV attack which killed six and injured dozens more. A sentencing scheduling conference is set for next Monday.

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