Murder Suspect Changes Mind, Wants Attorney To Represent Him

A man who was expected to ask a judge if he could represent himself against charges that he killed a Palm Springs transient has changed his mind and decided to keep his attorney.

David Reed faces a first-degree murder charge, as well as a special circumstance allegation of lying in wait, in the March 9, 2004, slaying of Ricky Mosley near Billy Reed’s Restaurant Bakery & Bar on North Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs.

The 51-year-old defendant could face the death penalty if convicted.

Reed, who is currently represented by attorney John Patrick Dolan.

Police allege Reed stabbed Mosley because he believed the homeless man had tried to rape his wife.

While in custody on an unrelated case, Reed asked to speak with Palm Springs police detectives and told them circumstances of Mosley’s death, according to a declaration in support of an arrest warrant.

Reed also told detectives the location of the murder weapon, which had been buried in Palm Springs, and a description of the victim’s clothing, the document states.