Lawyer in Madison Brooks Case Held in Contempt After Court Filing Reveals Victim’s Name

A Louisiana defense attorney has been held in contempt of court after including the full name of Madison Brooks, a college student who was allegedly sexually assaulted before being fatally struck by a car in 2023.

Caitlin Fowlkes, who represents Desmond Carter, 21, was found in contempt by Judge Gail Horne Ray on October 19, 2026. The ruling concerned a court filing connected to the attorney’s earlier attempt to prevent spectators from wearing pink during proceedings in the case.

Under Louisiana law, victims of sex crimes must generally be identified by their initials in court filings, and their full names must be redacted. The judge found that Fowlkes failed to follow that requirement when submitting documents attached to her motion.

The courtroom dispute began when Carter’s defense team argued that supporters wearing pink could influence or intimidate jurors. Brooks’ family and friends have worn the color to honor her memory and show their support. In August, the judge rejected the request to prohibit pink clothing in the courtroom.

Brooks was 19 and a student at Louisiana State University when she died in January 2023. Authorities said she had been out with a group of men before she was struck by a vehicle on Burbank Drive in Baton Rouge. Several men were accused in connection with the alleged sexual assault, and the criminal proceedings have continued.

Fowlkes was not formally punished for the contempt finding, according to reports. Carter’s trial was scheduled for December 7, 2026, as of the latest reporting.

The case has drawn attention not only because of the allegations surrounding Brooks’ death, but also because of the ongoing dispute over how her supporters can honor her in court.

Source: Fox News