Kenosha, Wis. — “The man who represents himself has a fool for a client.” – Abraham Lincoln. A high-profile murder trial is set to begin later this year, with 35-year-old Tiron M. Washington opting to represent himself despite facing life in prison. Washington is accused of orchestrating the December 10, 2021, assassination of 35-year-old Maximmillion A. Moore in what prosecutors describe as a hit-style execution.

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A Murder Linked to Federal Gun Investigation

According to investigators, Moore was a key witness in a federal firearms case against Washington in Lake County, Illinois. Shortly before Moore could testify, he was shot multiple times while sitting inside his vehicle at the intersection of 26th Street and 23rd Avenue in Kenosha. Surveillance footage reportedly captured a suspect dressed in white exiting a silver BMW, firing 15 rounds into Moore’s vehicle, and fleeing the scene.

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Authorities later located the stolen BMW abandoned nearby. Further investigation linked Washington to the crime through DNA evidence, witness statements, and security footage. His alleged accomplice, 22-year-old Daeshawn Brown, was also charged with first-degree intentional homicide as a party to the crime, while 26-year-old Taylore L. Dabney was charged with aiding a felon and obstructing justice.

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Details on Brown’s and Dabney’s Involvement

Prosecutors allege that Brown played a direct role in assisting Washington with the execution. Surveillance footage reportedly captured Brown discarding gloves used in the crime, which later tested positive for his DNA. Authorities tracked Brown’s movements after the shooting, leading them to an Uber driver who transported him from Kenosha to the south side of Chicago, where he was found at his mother’s residence.

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Dabney, Washington’s former girlfriend, is accused of helping him evade law enforcement after the murder. Investigators discovered that Dabney had been in communication with Washington both before and after the crime. She allegedly transported him to various locations and attempted to destroy her phone when approached by officers. Digital forensic analysis of her phone revealed incriminating messages and travel history linking her to Washington’s post-murder escape plan. Despite these charges, Dabney was released after posting a $25,000 cash bail, while Brown remains in custody on a $1 million cash bail.

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Five-Month Manhunt Ends in Tulsa, Oklahoma

Washington eluded law enforcement for more than five months before being captured in Tulsa, Oklahoma. A vigilant commuter noticed him transferring a handgun from his waistband to a backpack on a bus and alerted police. Washington was arrested and extradited to Kenosha, where he has remained in custody on a $5 million cash bail.

A Troubled Legal Journey

Since his incarceration, Washington has faced additional felony charges, including multiple counts of battery by prisoners and violating state institution laws. His legal troubles have been compounded by his erratic courtroom behavior, numerous pro-se motions, and repeated firings of his defense attorneys. On June 14, 2024, a judge granted his request to represent himself, setting the stage for a complex and contentious trial.

Defense Strategies and Courtroom Drama

At a recent pretrial hearing, Washington’s co-defendants argued for separate trials, but Kenosha County prosecutors opposed the motion, citing the public interest in keeping the cases joined. Deputy District Attorney Andrew Burgoyne stated, “Joinder serves a worthwhile public interest. There are occasions where due to due process concerns it’s inappropriate, but I am not yet persuaded this is one of those cases.” Judge Dougvillo has yet to make a final ruling.

Washington’s courtroom outbursts have also drawn attention. During a hearing, he interrupted proceedings, prompting Judge Dougvillo to reprimand him: “Your inability to follow directions is becoming a problem.” Washington responded defiantly before being removed from the courtroom by deputies.

Motion for Venue Change and Media Influence

Washington’s previous attorney filed a motion for a change of venue, arguing that local media coverage, including an article from Kenosha County Eye, has potentially prejudiced the jury pool. The article detailed Washington’s extensive criminal history under the headline “Washington is a Bad Hombre” and included surveillance footage of the shooting. The motion also cited public comments expressing relief at Washington’s arrest as evidence of an emotionally charged atmosphere surrounding the case.

An Uncertain Trial Timeline

The exact date of Washington’s trial remains undetermined, though a scheduling decision is expected later this month. Prosecutors have outlined a compelling case built on forensic evidence, surveillance footage, and witness testimony, while Washington—without legal counsel—will be left to mount his own defense against overwhelming odds.

Despite the challenges, Washington remains defiant, choosing to face the possibility of life in prison alone. As his trial date approaches, legal experts and court observers are watching closely, anticipating one of the most dramatic self-representation cases in recent Wisconsin history.