Accused in hostage case appears in court
After four appearances in court attempting to hold a bail hearing, a fifth court date has been scheduled for Michael Storms, 35 — accused of forcible confinement and uttering threats in relation to a June 28 hostage-taking.
Previous appearances on June 29, July 4 and July 11 have been adjourned due to Storms’ lack of legal representation. On Tuesday, Storms’ hearing was delayed several hours until he could meet with a lawyer in his cell.
However, after the meeting, Storms appeared before Judge Mindy Avrich-Skapinker to say he didn’t like what the lawyer said to him.
Storms requested one more week to seek counsel, while being held in custody.
In previous court appearances, information has revealed Storms to be in segregation at his own request and receiving mental-health support.
In seeking legal representation, Storms has previously rejected the help of duty counsel, and on Tuesday, he prodded at them in the courtroom.
“You’re here to help me?” he asked, laughing. “I don’t believe that.”
After less than three minutes, Storms was led away. His next court appearance will be on July 25 at 10 a.m.