Fox Lake Murder Suspect Given More Time To Find Attorney

(Juneau) A Fox Lake murder suspect has been given more time in his efforts to find a new attorney. Two weeks ago, Laverne Ware Jr. was granted use of the jail phone line for two hours during the business day, Monday through Friday until he finds new council. A hearing was held yesterday Thursday to determine if Ware has made reasonable efforts to obtain representation during that time frame.

Ware told the court that he has contacted a significant number of attorneys but has yet to find one willing to take his case. The defendant said he has several phone and in-person interviews scheduled next week. Judge Brian Pfitzinger said he is satisfied that Ware is making an effort and understands that it is difficult finding proper counsel. Pfitzinger gave Ware two more weeks and scheduled a May 3 hearing to discuss Ware’s progress.

District Attorney Kurt Klomberg questioned when the cutoff point in Ware’s search would be, citing concerns over delaying future motion hearings and a September jury trial. The victim’s mother also raised the same concerns and asked the judge (quote) “when will this charade end.” Pfitzinger said there will be a point when he determines that Ware has waived his right to an attorney but it is not now.

Klomberg also addressed several letters he had received from Ware questioning the DA’s lack of response in sharing discovery documents. Klomberg said that the letters have a tone that is not necessarily threatening but imply disciplinary action if he did not return correspondence. Klomberg said direct communication with Ware is off limits due to Ware’s intent to be represented by an attorney, if he were to waive that right he could then reply. Ware said he did not expect a response to the letters and is only interested in obtaining the documents. Ware said that Klomberg is stalling for time while he is being accused of doing the same thing.

Ware is accused of murdering his girlfriend and first cousin, Sesalie Dixon, in December of 2016. The 27-year-old was found in the cab of Ware’s pick-up truck inside a Fox Lake garage with a gunshot wound to the head.