Bodyguard Asks to Keep Lawyer Paid by Blake
The bodyguard accused of helping Robert Blake allegedly plan his wife’s slaying last year asked a judge Thursday to allow him to use a lawyer being paid by the actor.
Earle Caldwell, charged with conspiracy in the shooting death of Bonny Lee Bakley on May 4, 2001, said in court documents that attorney Arna H. Zlotnik can represent him fairly regardless of who is paying her.
Blake is charged in the fatal shooting of the 44-year-old Bakley near a Studio City restaurant.
“I genuinely believe that Ms. Zlotnik serves my interests despite her source of fees,” he said in the court declaration.
Deputy Dist. Attys. Gregory A. Dohi and Patrick R. Dixon have asked a judge to remove Zlotnik from the case, saying she cannot ethically represent Caldwell while being paid by Blake.
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