Jordan Fillingame, 25, of Columbia appeared before Marion County Justice Court Judge Gwen Broom Tuesday for his initial appearance in connection with a string of burglaries in July.
Fillingame was sought as a suspect in the home burglaries in Marion County from July 9 to 13. He was eventually arrested in Texas and returned to Marion County on Friday.
Judge Broom read him his rights on all 12 counts he was charged with, including four counts of burglary of a dwelling/home invasion, four counts of armed robbery, burglary of a non-dwelling/commercial building or car and possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute.
Broom then asked if Fillingame wanted the court to appoint a lawyer, and he said he did. Broom appointed Shirley Baldwin, and Fillingame was not pleased with the appointment. He said Baldwin is unfair and represents several of his family members already.
"It is my constitutional right to have a court appointed attorney," Fillingame said.
Judge Broom informed him that she has appointed him an attorney and that Fillingame could try to request a new attorney at his next hearing, or he might have to hire his own. She told him Baldwin would get him through to the next step.
Fillingame also told Broom he would like to request a change of venue, a request that would also need to be heard at a later date.
Fillingame's preliminary hearing is set for Aug. 25.
Fillingame remains in custody at this time with bonds totaling $571,000.
