Defense seeks to bar pink apparel at trial of accused rapist in LSU case

Madison Brooks, a 19-year-old student at Louisiana State University, was allegedly raped by three men before being struck by a vehicle and dying on a Baton Rouge highway in 2023. The driver who caused the crash was cleared, leaving the three accused—Desmond Carter, Kaivon Washington and Casen Carver—to face rape charges. As Carter prepares to appear before a judge later this month, his defense filed a motion seeking to ban pink clothing and supportive messages from the courtroom, citing Supreme Court precedents on “carnival atmospheres” that could affect trial fairness.

Prosecutors countered that the pink attire serves as victim advocacy and does not threaten impartiality. Local outlet WBRZ reported the filing, noting the legal tug-of-war over courtroom decor. The judge’s decision on the motion will shape how the community can publicly honor Brooks during the proceedings.