People v. Hightower

Opinion

ANDERSON, P. J.

Felix D. Hightower (appellant) appeals his conviction of second degree murder and arson, contending that the trial court erred in finding him competent to stand trial. He also petitions for a writ of habeas corpus, contending that the trial court erred in finding him incompetent to represent himself. Appellant essentially argues his claims in the alternative: (a) he was improperly found competent to stand trial; or (b) if he were properly found competent to stand trial, he was necessarily competent to waive his right to counsel and represent himself. We find the first…