Cravelyn Hooker v. State

The circuit court denied a defendant’s unequivocal request to represent himself because he was not “qualified” to do so by his “training, education, and experience.” This ruling violated the defendant’s right to self-representation under Faretta v. California, 422 U.S. 806, 95 S.Ct. 2525, 45 L.Ed.2d 562 (1975). We reverse the judgment of conviction and remand for a new trial.

Cravelyn Hooker was charged with a form of sexual battery contrary to section 794.011(8)(b), Florida Statutes (2010). After a jury trial, he was convicted of the lesser included offense of lewd or lascivious battery.

Severa…