The defense team for Desmond Carter, one of three men accused of raping and contributing to the death of Louisiana State University student Madison Brooks, has filed a motion seeking to prohibit supporters from wearing pink clothing or displaying supportive messages during his trial.
Carter and two co-defendants, Kaivon Washington and Casen Carver, are charged with rape in connection with the January 2023 incident. Prosecutors allege Brooks was sexually assaulted in a vehicle after a night out with the men. She was later found dead after being struck by a car on a Baton Rouge highway. The driver of the vehicle that struck Brooks was cleared of charges.
In a motion filed with the court, Carter's defense team argued that pink attire and messages of support could create an intimidating atmosphere for the jury and potentially compromise his right to a fair trial. The defense cited Supreme Court cases, including Sheppard v. Maxwell and Estes v. Texas, which address concerns about excessive media attention and the potential for a "carnival atmosphere" to prejudice legal proceedings.
The prosecution has reportedly opposed the motion, characterizing the proposed attire as a form of victim advocacy rather than an attempt to intimidate the jury. The trial is scheduled to begin later this month.
Morgan Brooks, Madison Brooks' mother, has been a vocal advocate for her daughter, establishing the Madison Brooks Foundation to support victims of sexual assault and raise awareness. She has previously spoken about her daughter's last communication with her and the impact of the tragedy on her family.
M adison Brooks was a sophomore at LSU at the time of her death.