MILWAUKEE — There were a lot of emotions in the courtroom Thursday, when Dariaz Higgins appeared before a court commissioner.
Higgins is accused of abducting 2-year-old Noelani Robinson and killing her mother, Sierra Robinson. He now faces a number of charges including first degree intentional homicide.
On Thursday, he waived his right to a preliminary hearing, and his lawyer protested the way his client was restrained in a wheelchair, calling it inhumane.
“I objected to the fact that he was brought in, he was being treated like an animal without the dignity and the respect that every human being deserves. I’ve had the chance to meet with Mr. Higgins. He was always respectful and civil, and gracious," Alejandro Lockwood said.
Court commissioner Barry Phillips said jail officers tell a different story.
“I objected to the fact that he was brought in, he was being treated like an animal without the dignity and the respect that every human being deserves." — lawyer Alejandro Lockwood
“Usually if someone comes out like that it’s for a reason, and not just because of his charges. (You) said that your client has been gracious, respectful. Unfortunately, he hasn’t been that way in the jail allegedly,” Phillips said.
Higgins is expected back in court April 18.
