Rochester, MN (KROC AM News) - First he decided to represent himself during his Rochester murder trial and now he won’t even be there.

Olmsted County ADC photo
Olmsted County ADC photo
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The trial of 28-year-old Malcolm Woods was delayed Wednesday morning when the court was told he had decided not to be there anymore.

Trial Judge Jacob Allen was told Woods had become non-verbal with deputies Wednesday morning and a legal representative who spoke with him said Woods made it clear he did not want to return to the trial.

Allen had prepared for his possible absence after Woods indicated during Tuesday’s proceedings he may withdraw. Allen says case law allows a trial to proceed if the defendant voluntarily withdraws and he ordered the prosecution to continue presenting its case. Five more witnesses were scheduled to testify Wednesday. Allen indicated Woods can return anytime he wants.

Woods is charged with first and second-degree murder in the 2018 shooting death of 28-year-old Brandon Arndt.

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