Sean Williams to represent self in escape trial

Alleged child rapist Sean Williams will represent himself at his first federal trial later this month after U.S. District Judge Ronnie Greer granted appointed attorney Ilya Berenshteyn’s motion to withdraw Thursday. The decision came five days before the scheduled start of Williams’ first trial on escape and attempted escape charges. Judge Greer also moved the start date back one week. Berenshteyn was Williams’ fourth appointed attorney and had told Greer in a July 1 hearing that he wanted to withdraw. He filed a written motion to that effect last week. Judge Greer said in the courts view, Mr. Williams has waived his right to counsel. The new trial date for the escape charges is set for July 23rd.