Stanley is charged with the murder of Allen Cogswell and admitted to the crime in an ABC57 exclusive video interview from behind bars in July 2025.

Stanley had filed a demand to proceed as a self-represented litigant, which would mean he waives his right to an attorney and represents himself at trial. He explained over email correspondence with ABC57 Investigative Reporter Annie Kate that he wanted to fire his public defender because he felt she was pushing a plea deal rather than focusing on building a defense.

In court, presiding Elkhart Circuit Court Judge Michael Christofeno had a “frank and open discussion” with Stanley, asking him if he understood what it means to self-represent. Christofeno said he would be treated the same as any other attorney in the courtroom, so he would have to act as such.

At one point, Christofeno told Stanley, “I think that you’re making a horrific decision, one of the worst you’ve ever made,” but said he won’t interfere with Stanley’s right to self-represent.

Stanley, however, told the judge, “I’m kind of in over my head,” and withdrew his demand to self-represent. This means Stanley keeps his representation, Elkhart County Chief Deputy Public Defender, Bridgette Faulkner.

The court also granted the state’s motion for leave to file amended charging information, which added sentencing enhancements for Stanley. This comes because of Stanley’s second added charge, Possession of a Firearm by a Domestic Batterer.

Stanley had a previous conviction from over a decade ago expunged in early 2025, but the Elkhart County Prosecutor still used that prior conviction to add the second charge. He faces 50-85 in prison if found guilty at trial.

Trial is still set for March 2 at 8:30 a.m.