Suspected cop killer appears in court

Felix Doligosa, Rocky Mountain News

Published September 21, 2006 at midnight

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Adams County District Attorney Don Quick said this afternoon he intends to file first-degree murder charges against Brian Washington, suspected of gunning down Aurora police Detective Michael Thomas in an Aurora intersection yesterday.

Washington, along with his attorney, Todd Nelson, made an appearance before Adams County District Judge Harlan Bockman where he was advised of his rights.

The courtroom was packed and security was tight as Washington listened to what the judge told him and simply replied "Yes, your Honor" when asked if he understood his rights.

Nelson tried to prohibit the media from attending the hearing, but Bockman allowed one still photographer and one videographer to attend.

Washington was arrested at the scene yesterday after he allegedly walked up to a car Thomas was driving at Peoria Street and Montview Boulevard, and allegedly shot the officer in the side, killing him.

Thomas was in plain clothes and wasn’t driving a police vehicle.

No motive for the shooting has yet been offered.

Two corrections employees were in the car behind Thomas and jumped out, subduing Washington until police could arrive.

Washington is scheduled back in court next Monday for the filing of formal charges. He’s being held without bail.

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