Trial of man accused of targeting sex offenders takes bizarre turn when he demands to speak to judge.

The moment Charles Broyles was allowed to approach the bench to have an "off the record" conversation with Judge Jason Cashon on Wednesday. Photos/Sara Vanden Berge

By SARA VANDEN BERGE

A deaf man on trial for allegedly targeting registered sex offenders in Erath County made an unusual demand on Wednesday, asking to speak with Judge Jason Cashon in a “whispered” off-the-record conversation at “the bench.”

Charles Broyles is on trial for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon for allegedly shooting Randell Cowan in the face on Dec. 3, 2023.

During Wednesday morning’s testimony, Broyles appeared to become agitated and repeatedly asked his translator to stop the proceedings.

At one point, Broyles became loud and seemingly argumentative, prompting the bailiff to re-enter the courtroom and stand behind him.

After a lengthy break where Broyles left the courtroom with his attorneys, Ryan Taylor and Brady Pendleton, he returned and asked to speak to Judge Cashon “off the record.”

His attorneys were quick to point out that they had advised Broyles against it.

Cashon called the request “unusual” and went on to inform Broyles that anything he said could be used against him.

“At this point in time do you understand your Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination?” Cashon asked, to which Broyles answered that he did.

Prior to the start of the conversation, Broyles was given an oath and the court reporter was asked not to record the conversation, the details of which could not be heard in the courtroom.

Expert testimony about the evidence against Broyles has resumed.

The trial is expected to last through the remainder of the week.

Click here to read testimony from day one.

Erath County bailiff Robbie Rudder moves in to stand behind Broyles after he appears to become agitated Wednesday.

Broyles' attorney Brady Pendleton stands to tell Judge Cashon that he has advised his client against having a conversation in open court.

Broyles stands to take the oath before speaking to Judge Cashon.