Defense Accuses Detectives of Misgendering Murder Defendant

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A defense attorney raised concerns about a lead detective misgendering a murder defendant during her police interview. Sean Baker, 40, is charged with second-degree murder while armed for allegedly stabbing 35-year-old Robert Wiggins on the 300 block of 37th St., SE on Jan. 31. Baker was initially charged with assault with intent to kill. She is a transgender woman. Defense attorney John R. Fowler said he was concerned that the lead detective in this case, as well as another detective who is also working on the case, violated a Metropolitan Police Department policy regarding handling interactions with transgender individuals. The detectives referred to the defendant as a male even though they were aware that she identified as female. Video evidence from the police interview showed one detective saying, “You are a grown fucking man, you can do whatever you want”. Fowler said the MPD officers were being prejudice towards Baker. The defense also said the lead detective in this case failed to look into Wiggin’s past assault charges. Wiggins had a history of gathering sharp objects that could be used for protection, and then beating and abusing transgender women within the household. Baker’s friend of 19 years spoke about troubles the couple displayed. This witness told the jury that Baker, at one point, became so enraged with Wiggins that she said “Ima kill him” three times because Wiggins was not answering her phone calls. The witness said Baker and Wiggins were always arguing about infidelities with other women. However, the witness said Baker never disclosed any domestic abuse. But, the witness said he knew the couple had a volatile relationship. The trial is scheduled to continue on Nov. 21. This article was written by Danuellys Diaz

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