Madison Brooks supporters will be allowed to wear pink in the courtroom during the upcoming trial of Desmond Carter, after an East Baton Rouge judge rejected a defense request to prohibit the color. The defense argued that pink clothing could influence or intimidate jurors, while Brooks’ mother said supporters wear it to honor her daughter. The judge ruled that pink clothing may be worn, but shirts displaying Brooks’ photograph will not be permitted.
Brooks, a 19-year-old Louisiana State University student, was allegedly raped by multiple men after a night out in Baton Rouge in January 2023. She was later struck and killed by a vehicle after being left along a highway. Carter is scheduled to appear before a judge on Aug. 17.
| 1) | Judge rejects request to ban pink clothing |
| 2) | Why Brooks supporters wear pink |
| 3) | Details of the allegations against Carter |
| 4) | Brooks’ background and her family’s campaign |
| 5) | What happens next in the case |
Judge rejects request to ban pink clothing
East Baton Rouge Judge Gail Ray denied a motion filed by Carter’s defense team seeking to prevent spectators and Brooks supporters from wearing pink during court proceedings. The ruling was issued Thursday, ahead of Carter’s scheduled appearance later in August.
The defense maintained that the color could send a message to jurors and create sympathy for Brooks or prejudice against Carter. The judge drew a distinction between pink clothing and apparel carrying Brooks’ image. The filing stated that shirts showing the victim’s picture would not be allowed because they could promote pity and arouse passion or prejudice against the defendant.
Why Brooks supporters wear pink
Ashley Baustert, Brooks’ mother, said the color is a tribute to her daughter rather than an effort to affect the jury. Supporters have adopted pink because it was Brooks’ favorite color and have described their courtroom presence as peaceful and respectful.
“We wear it to honor her. It’s not about anyone except for Madison.”
Baustert said the family wants to see those accused of harming Brooks held accountable while continuing to honor her life. She also expressed concern that banning pink could provoke further public anger, but emphasized that supporters would not be disruptive.
Details of the allegations against Carter
Brooks was a sophomore at LSU when she went out to Reggie’s bar in Baton Rouge on Jan. 15, 2023. Security footage reportedly showed her leaving the establishment with four men, including Carter. Prosecutors allege that Brooks was raped by multiple men before she was left out of a vehicle and struck by a passing car.
Desmond Carter, 21, faces a rape charge. Kaivon Washington and Casen Carver also face rape charges in connection with the case. The driver of the vehicle that struck Brooks remained at the scene and was cleared of charges, according to the report. The allegations have not been resolved in court.
Brooks’ background and her family’s campaign
Brooks was pursuing a communications degree at LSU. Before attending the university, she graduated from Saint Scholastica Academy in 2021, where she was an honor roll student and participated in cheerleading, Spirit Club, Doves for Life and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
Following her death, Baustert has worked to keep attention on the case and honor her daughter’s memory. The family has used pink ribbons, photographs and other memorial displays, including efforts connected with the Madison Brooks Foundation. Baustert said the legal process has been difficult but that the family remains committed to ensuring Brooks’ voice is not forgotten.
“Nothing will bring Madison back, but we remain committed to honoring her life and ensuring that her voice is never forgotten.”
What happens next in the case
Carter is scheduled to appear before a judge on Aug. 17. The ruling permits pink clothing in the courtroom but establishes a limit on visual displays featuring Brooks’ image. That distinction is intended to preserve courtroom order while allowing supporters to express solidarity through clothing.
The proceedings will determine how the rape allegations move forward. Carter and the other defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court. The case remains part of an ongoing legal process that began after Brooks’ death in 2023.
| 1 | Judge Gail Ray allowed Brooks supporters to wear pink in court. |
|---|---|
| 2 | The defense argued pink could influence or intimidate jurors. |
| 3 | Shirts displaying Brooks’ photograph will not be permitted. |
| 4 | Carter, Washington and Carver face rape charges. |
| 5 | Carter’s next court appearance is scheduled for Aug. 17. |
Summary
The ruling allows Brooks supporters to wear pink while preventing courtroom displays that feature her photograph. The decision addresses competing concerns over public expression, courtroom decorum and the defendants’ right to a fair proceeding as the case advances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do Madison Brooks supporters wear pink?
Supporters, including Brooks’ mother, say pink was Brooks’ favorite color and is worn to honor her memory.
What did the judge prohibit?
The judge prohibited shirts displaying Brooks’ photograph in the courtroom, citing concerns that they could influence jurors.
When is Desmond Carter scheduled to appear?
Carter is scheduled to appear before a judge on Aug. 17.