Hillsborough man accused in fatal DUI crash back in court after skipping trial date

TAMPA, Fla. - He was a no-show for his trial last month, but elusive fugitive Joseph Higgins is now back in jail and faced a Tampa judge Friday. 

Higgins is accused of driving drunk and causing a fatal crash two years ago. Now that he was back in court, prosecutors accused of trying to pull another tactic to avoid trial. 

He announced to the court that he wants to hire a second attorney for his case and delay things until December. Prosecutor Jessica Couvertier objected.

"Mr. Higgins is trying to bring on additional representation in order to do nothing more but delay this trial from going forward," argued Couvertier.

Tampa Judge Laura Ward was in no mood for games.

Joseph Higgins is trying to avoid his trial according to prosecutors.

RELATED: DUI manslaughter suspect on the run after skipping trial in Tampa

"We’re not going to keep pushing this out. Mr. Higgins your day in court was 30 days ago and quite frankly, I don’t think it should be extended any longer," said Ward.

Just a month ago, the judge issued a bench warrant for Higgins, who skipped his trial date. The prosecution’s witnesses had to sit and wait, along with a pool of potential jurors.

While things came to a halt in a Tampa courtroom, Higgins ended up at a bar in Apollo Beach on the Fourth of July weekend. FOX 13 learned Higgins was spotted by someone who recognized him and called authorities.

Higgins was spotted at a bar after skipping his trial last month.

RELATED: Fugitive facing DUI manslaughter charge captured at Apollo Beach

Higgins' trial was originally set for last October, but it got pushed back to June, which is when he didn't show up.

He's accused of driving drunk and causing the Hillsborough County crash that killed Karrie Lewis on Jan. 3, 2021. Higgins was arrested months later on charges of DUI manslaughter and vehicular homicide. 

Judge Ward held firm in court on an August trial date, ensuring no more delays. 

"Mr. Higgins does not get the opportunity to not show up for trial and then for weeks evade a warrant for his arrest. And now gets to bring on a new lawyer to get more time," stated Ward.

Higgins' trial date has been set for Aug. 21.