Alexander Leatham, a transgender member of the “Zizians” cult-like group facing murder charges, was removed from a California courtroom for the second time in recent weeks after an outburst regarding his treatment in jail.
Leatham, who identifies as a woman, disrupted Tuesday’s proceedings by accusing jail officials of not respecting his gender identity. According to media reports, Leatham claimed the facility was “hormonally detransitioning” him while he was shackled and reading from a written statement. He then reportedly resisted officers who escorted him from the courtroom.
READ: Bullet-Riddled Challenger, Broken Glass, And A 14-Year Sentence: Alabama Man’s Reckless Act
Leatham and co-defendant Suri Dao, who also identifies as transgender, were charged in 2022 in connection with a violent altercation with a landlord attempting to evict Zizian members living in box trucks on his property. Leatham faces charges of attempted murder and murder, stemming from the death of a Zizian member killed by the landlord in self-defense.
This incident follows a similar courtroom ejection in March, where Leatham reportedly shouted, “This is a show trial to coordinate the genocide of transgender people!” while resisting officers attempting to bring him into the courtroom in a wheelchair.
The Zizians, a group centered around veganism and other causes, have been linked to at least six murders. The group’s leader, also a trans-identifying male, has previously written about veganism, anti-fascism, and concerns about artificial intelligence. In February, Maryland authorities arrested him and other Zizian members after they were found camping on private property with a cache of weapons.
READ: Skyway Bridge Pile-Up: Tractor-Trailer Causes Chain Reaction Crash, One Injured
Maximillian Snyder, another Zizian member, is awaiting trial for the murder of the California landlord involved in Leatham and Dao’s case, allegedly committed before the landlord could testify against them.
Leatham and Dao do not yet have a trial date. Leatham’s attorney has not responded to requests for comment.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.
