Jamie Hood (WAGA-TV file photo).ATHENS, Ga. -
Accused cop killer Jamie Hood is getting a new defense team. Hood spoke out once again in a hearing preceding his murder trial as the case hit another delay.
Hood complained in court that his attorneys were damaging his case rather than helping him. He took issue with his legal team asking that he be declared incompetent to stand trial.
"When you got people imposing their will on people for the wrong reasons, it ain't gonna be no trust there. That's why I thank God, the grace of God, them psychiatrists didn't find me mentally incompetent because I wouldn't have no rights no more," Hood said.
The accused cop killer's court-appointed asked to be removed from the case and Newell Hamilton, Jr. said he was taking over the case.
"My apologies for placing the court in the position we are today…but I am here to take over Mr. Hood's representation as lead counsel," said Hamilton.
The move prevented the court from holding a hearing to determine what judge will hear the case. The sudden change also clearly irritated the current presiding judge.
"It seems like the only thing that has happened in this case is delay. The Court is not satisfied with that, "said Superior Court Judge David Sweat.
Prosecutors accuse Hood of the March 2011 killing of Athens-Clarke Officer Buddy Christian and wounding Officer Tony Howard.
Hood and his attorneys insist that the original judge assigned to the case, Lawton Stephens, had a long-term friendship with Officer Howard and therefore shouldn't preside over the case.
"I'm not trying to avoid the death sentence. I'm not asking for delays. At the end of the day Judge, it's not Jamie Hood fault. It's these counsels' fault. It's not mine," said Hood.
Another hearing is scheduled on Friday to discuss removing the judge from the case.
