WI v. Chandler Halderson Trial Day 1 - Prosecution Opening Statement by William Brown

[@honkeykong4049]

This opening should be shown in law schools.

[@honorclarkescatacomb67]

I agree! This is a brilliant example of what an opening should be.

[@jgusr5550]

Lol… I mean… it’s kind of a layup.

[@9babyblu]

This whole trial should be studied in law school! It was perfectly executed from opening to closing and sentencing! I come back from time to time to rewatch this trial. I hate this crime happened but love this trial.

[@m.j.mbrooks1859]

Right up there with My Cousin Vinny!

[@lamasterbatonlll1383]

​@@jgusr5550alley hoop

[@kerstinklenovsky239]

This prosecutor is every defense lawyer's nightmare. He is competent, perfectly prepared and makes you want to listen to him forever!

[@honkeykong4049]

And if you've seen Chandler's defense team, you'll know this was a more one-sided beatdown than Desert Storm.

[@rafalIL29]

@@honkeykong4049 he should try the glow trick. That was his only hope really. His lawyer didn’t even know his name in her opening statements 😂

[@thewolf5444]

I'm literally listening now and he's brilliant. Basically telling us a story about exactly what happened. He could talk for hours and I'll listen!

[@smith899]

@@honkeykong4049Wow! THAT is descriptive!! Now I must watch.

[@Lenastar23]

@@honkeykong4049 oh no, was it Elaine? lol

[@nancyjones6780]

I love when he says "The drones go up, the dogs go out ". He's a great speaker!

[@lisainthelab]

Yes!

[@workingonmyroar7944]

Yes!

[@dropcapapp]

Yes!

[@atm1058]

This guy won this case with his opening statement. Masterful work.

[@AlexB-pp7dc]

@@goodcatfilms4276well the evidence was so overwhelming anyway but yeah this guy is good

[@mtkn744]

It's not difficult to win a case like this

[@goodcatfilms4276]

I mean I do t think anyone could lose this case

[@It-is-me...Melsie]

@@mtkn744 Perhaps, but it is not easy to be so engaging, masterful, charismatic, have such an amazing memory, and be such and awesome storyteller.

[@survivealaska]

His girlfriend gave them what they needed, it was over right then.

[@TheGrimmReader]

I will never be able to wrap my head around “I’d rather my parents be dead than disappointed”

[@thtswhtshesai6d9]

Yeah his thought process is genuinely baffling. Even if we assume that Chandler’s biggest hangup was about his dad finding out about his web of lies and not having the balls to tell him-his Dad already found out!! It should’ve honestly been a relief for him that he didn’t have to break the news and he just had to acknowledge the lie and attempt to start over. The fact that he was so incapable of being honest to his father and himself that he would’ve preferred KILLING his parents and attempting to cover a murder….it’s genuinely hard to understand.

[@floofzykitty5072]

Pathological liars get off on the fact that people believe their lies. If you look at how complicated and elaborate his lies were, they are genuinely harder to keep up than actually doing those things! The effort he put into pretending like he was doing school work, doing well in school and doing an internship was far more effort than your average university 2-3 unit semester load. When someone believes your lies, you have control over them. In the end, people who kill do it because of the power. People kill when they feel like they will lose control if they don't. If he was actually being truthful and doing all those things he said he was doing, he probably still wouldn't be happy because he wouldn't necessarily have power over anyone.

[@Nickname-ef9tv]

It was not about his parents being disappointed, it was about him being embarassed.

[@TheGrimmReader]

@@Nickname-ef9tv his embarrassment and their disappointment seem like different sides of the same coin. Either way, his actions are unjustifiable.

[@ovoparadise9143]

this needs to go into law school books, this has been the greatest and most convicting open statement ever to be recorded. the prosecutor nailed this case from this statement alone, such a sad and disturbing case, and he maintained composure. this is a goosebumps chilling case. r.i.p to his parents the victims my god

[@goodcatfilms4276]

I mean the evidence is quite overwhelming… the dude was caught red handed basically

[@kondawg8247]

Yeah he was given the most solid case in the history of murders, chandler has to be a massive narcissist to think he could have pulled this off.

[@Luvmyswiftvet]

I totally agree with you and his sentencing statement was also very powerful... One of the best I've ever heard and so much common sense... 🙏😢

[@Beatyofeet32]

@@goodcatfilms4276 I agree. But I'll say that I really appreciate the obvious effort he put into preparing for these opening statements despite the case really being quite an easy one. Many people might consider taking it less seriously if they think the evidence will speak for itself.

[@Cinder_311]

​@kondawg8247 but he still delivered a perfect opening statement.

[@markcoluzzi5754]

One of the best opening statements I've ever seen. No notes, no awkward pauses, easy to understand and to the point. Well done sir. ⚖️

[@ferraroannie4058]

Seem or heard? 😂

[@hollyobaby6949]

smooth af. setting up every single point and counterpoint he may be making. i've worked as a paralegal before and this is the best i've ever seen.

[@naysay02]

great comment and taste in music

[@MoonRover-un5uf]

I absolutely agree with you. A talented speaker.

[@zungtrinh]

Sounds like he’s learnt by heart with his opening statement👍🏼👌

[@harthooft]

The craziest part is the amount of effort he put into killing his parents and cleaning up their remains as opposed to finish his education and start a career.

[@jiachengwu4185]

He is not a normal human being

[@iris84_04]

or hide is crimes well

[@gamithawanasinghe4096]

@rainbowMessage84 I don't know how an human being tend to do such a thing..This is crazy..

[@gamithawanasinghe4096]

​@jiachengwu4185 Absolutely. I'm french Sri lankan, and this is my first time hearing such a case like this.This murder case did get popular these days in Sri lankan youtube channels, which presents murder cases. It's so scary, and he just like an Isis guy who trained terrorist acts.😢😢😢😢 Amen for his parents.❤❤ i haven't got anything to say apart from that.

[@sarahuber8567]

I’m stunned that someone without a history of disturbing behavior could do this. Raised by loving parents too.🤯

[@LastMumzy]

Had I been Chandler after hearing that opening I'd have stood up and told the judge I wanted to change my plea to guilty.

[@rehab5355]

🤣😅😂😆

[@moniqueloomis9772]

If only.

[@ybbahsetteval]

Literally. I’d be so embarrassed how spot on they are

[@thewolf5444]

Haha imagine sitting there and having the entire case summed up perfectly and knowing deep down that you are truly f***ed...

[@aaronmolina8786]

Chandler wasn't even in the court room for this. He was colonizing Mars with SpaceX

[@lisaburt7118]

The most respectful, fair judge ever, and the most brilliant opening statement by a brilliant prosecutor ever! I’ve watched this about three times, just to watch excellence in action. So impressed.

[@kspen6110]

This was like listening to a script for a horror, murder mystery movie. Absolutely horrible what this kid did to his parents just because he didn't want to live a responsible adult life. The prosecutor did a phenomenal job

[@gennyzelis2303]

Agreed. Came here to say the same thing. He killed his parents for the simple reason that he was too lazy to got to school and or get a job and work. All he wanted to do was play video games all day.

[@gennyzelis2303]

@@robgarcia3583 same

[@nancyanderson2032]

very much like the joel guy jr who did the same to his parents. he boiled his moms head on the stove top though

[@gordonaliasme1104]

@@nancyanderson2032 SPOILER ALERT!

[@Bees123Knees]

@@gennyzelis2303 Well there goes the video games, but, he has free room and board for the rest of his psychopathic life. Maybe he's OK with that!?

[@nicoleloves9483]

I didn’t even notice it was one hour long. Such captivating story telling skills.

[@Eyerusalem_]

He should have tried to write a fiction and become possibly best seller at least on Amazon

[@bradenevans514]

Agree. I had to go back and look at the time just now.

[@starrynight2600]

He’s an excellent prosecutor and he knows how to get the jury to visualize what happened and to emotionally connect them. An emotional connection is helpful.

[@maryannanderson2213]

Yes, it's an hour long and I have actually watched it over and over and over so I have put in a lot more than one hour listening to Prosecutor Brown. I often listen to him as I am going to sleep. I know if I nod off I don't have to be concerned that I have missed something because I already know the details he will cover anyway. There's just something about his voice that is extremely soothing, even though he is talking about the most grisly of actions. If Chandler had the least bit of conscience (I'm not sure he does) he would be wiggling like crazy before this guy is finished with his opening statement. If I heard someone making those statements about ME, and making them in a forum where the whole world could hear them, I would be so embarrassed I would be UNDER that table but our boy Chandler doesn't seem to be the least bit bothered by hearing all those gory details.

[@whiteoutgotu]

😮 I genuinely cannot believe an hour just went by. FLAWLESS VICTORY!

[@rachelgreen8384]

Wow this prosecutor is wonderful. He painted a clear path and story.

[@LordBattleSmurf]

Yea he's way better than Binger. They're going to nail the murderer

[@christina5kids16grands]

@@LordBattleSmurf Wait...Binger? Does he work out of this office? Sorry, I'm not sure where exactly this is compared to Kenosha.

[@CeeCeeB.]

Extremely great speaker 😳

[@kristenjustkristen9462]

I read your comment in ( Jennifer Aniston)Rachel's voice lol. I agree. Great opening statement.

[@wiscogirl81]

Too bad he wasn't the prosecution for Kyle Rittenhouse

[@lavonnetollison724]

Swear to goodness, as a long time true crime fan at a ripe old age, I've watched more than my share of trials - this astounding opening statement is far and above supreme! You, William Brown deserved a huge raise on this alone!

[@l.a.w.79]

I couldn’t agree more. I marvel at his skill and it stands above all opening statements I’ve listened to!!!

[@Joel-fg9px]

“Mom and Dad I’m really sorry but I actually haven’t been going to classes for the past year. I should’ve told you earlier but I knew you’d be upset.” If he would have had the courage to just have this conversation they would have forgave him and started helping to get things back on track immediately. Such a tragic case

[@WobblesandBean]

He's not only a coward, he's an entitled little conkwocket who wanted to be waited on hand and foot for the rest of his life. He figured if he killed his parents, he could cash out on life insurance and continue to coast along doing nothing.

[@Kentendo_Switch]

It really is he still had a whole lifetime ahead of himself his parents still yet had a life to live. I can’t understand why he would do it.

[@joan6096]

Mitchell doesn’t get to show his parents his kids if he intends to have some. He can’t go to his parents for steady and sure advice anymore, can’t lean on them when the going gets though. Bart and Christa don’t get to be grandparents because of him, don’t get to spend their golden years together. It’s really tragic reminds me of the Amatos Chad, Margret, and Cody leaving behind Jason and his family. I just don’t get it what did he think he would gain? How long did he think he could hide? Would being found out really be more … then what ever he’s in now?

[@jj-nh8lz]

The kid never had a moral compass in the first place, so it never occurred to him to do the right thing.

[@JDiz992]

Narcissistic people like Chandler will not/can not ever admit wrongdoing. These people NEVER take accountability for their actions. You have to admit you have to be pretty F’d in the head to choose murder over simply telling the truth and facing the consequences.

[@jezistar1881]

"Chandler with the neck brace that no one told him he needed to wear." ☠☠

[@johns1625]

"'Come back anytime!', a thing we say to people not expecting them to just show up the next day." 😂😂😂

[@gisellellee_4723]

Lmao 😂 😂

[@IBAIanBrandonAnderson]

This got me so bad when I first heard it. Such a burn 🔥

[@날Gnarleigh리]

Shaaadeee

[@Whatsherface511]

I cackled so many times. He was making jabs ☠️☠️☠️

[@tk20channel]

One thing I learned with presenting is the use of the 'pause', and he uses it brilliantly. Notice how he uses the pauses to allow the jury to digest the info and also it causes them to think. His entire story was masterfully crafted and executed, but I figured I'd point out another reason why people have liked this opening so much, and that's the space he leaves between statements, thoughts, sentences. This is my 2nd time through because of how good it is!

[@glamdolly30]

Excellent point. This prosecutor 100% nailed the defendant through a combination of two things - a great script and masterful delivery. Why are so few lawyers as gifted as him? I am often stunned at how ineffective prosecutors in particular are, when they are given the gift of a dramatic and strong murder case like this one. So often I watch their opening statement and am tearing my hair out that they totally miss the target and fail to deliver killer blows to the defence. It will be fascinating to see him questioning the witnesses. That is another test of an attorney's skill - somehow I don't think this guy will disappoint!

[@robotaholic]

My 2nd time too... I can't believe the fireplace part. So horrific it's the worst I ever heard ever

[@l.a.w.79]

I agree. I listened twice and this guy does his law school proud. This was masterful in terms of training and probably natural “giftedness” in communication.

[@IdeologieUK]

Also my 2nd watch. What he’s successfully done is introduce the jury to key evidence, and even though they’ve been instructed that the opening is not evidential, they enter into the basic facts with already compelling ‘non-evidence’ for now that they will recognise later as the trial unfolds. Incredible delivery! 👍

[@tj6930]

The solicitor in the Timothy Jones Jr trial was AMAZING! This guy remind me of them.

[@ollenaktergal902]

What an incredible opening statement. Wiliam Brown is a very talented prosecutor. He describes the whole course of events so well that no one can misunderstand what happened.

[@shannonsorrels6590]

I felt like I was following Chandler around watching the whole crime unfold. Amazing!

[@vsav331]

One of the absolute best opening statements given by a Prosecutor I've seen to date. This man NEVER looked at one notebook, a laptop or even a scrap of paper. He knew locations, names & evidence like no body's business. I'm a paralegal by trade & have seen my fair share of trials, both in person & online, and Mr. Brown blew me away with his memory recall and just sheer knowledge of this case like the back of his hand. Wow! ~Peace✌🏽

[@newyardleysinclair9960]

He's using pictures as a rough prompt of what hes gonna say

[@workingonmyroar7944]

Yes the pictures help

[@Rachelcoaster]

Yes hes brilliant and very good looking

[@It-is-me...Melsie]

@@Rachelcoaster He's very charismatic.

[@imapotato6069]

@@It-is-me...MelsieAAHHH you just triggered JCS saying «he was a very charismatic young man” about Travis Alexander

[@FBFJDKOEUEURJFJDJ]

In awe of this opening statement. Clear, concise and outlines the entire story in just over an hour. Absolute hats off to this gentleman.

[@Alaska_Gal]

My God. That opening statement was incredible. Witnesses haven’t even been called, and I’m already convinced he’s guilty. Good luck to the jurors with keeping an open mind after this!

[@patrickshaffer2138]

Chandler didn't make it very hard, I mean he literally left an electronic trail right to the dismembered legs lol awesome opening statement

[@K.L.M.6208]

Well,,he is Guilty and everyone knows it.

[@Alaska_Gal]

@@K.L.M.6208 as a juror, you can’t go into a trial (especially just the opening statement) and “know” somebody is guilty. That’s why they do such extensive screening for jurors. When I was called for a criminal trial, I was honest and told them I wouldn’t be able to remain unbiased, based on something that had happened to me. They ended up having me serve on a non-criminal case.

[@psfanboy79]

Chandler literally left a paper trail thru his dads saved emails

[@axollot]

That's what I was thinking about halfway through this opening. 😱 Then he backs up the opening statement with evidence of everything he said... That's what I look for. But he's another Casey Anthony who had concocted a fake life and got caught.

[@kristenjustkristen9462]

The prosecutor mentioning two or three times how successful and well the other brother was/is doing in life was awesome. He knew it would irritate the murderous pimple of a brother hearing how much better Mitchell's life is compared to his own.

[@victoriousangel8911]

So true.

[@glamdolly30]

I noticed that - by the time the prosecutor had finished, I bet Chandler Halderson's balls had shrunk to the size of frozen peas!

[@zeldafitzgerald3530]

I caught that too 🤣

[@Tsadie1]

Chandler’s inability to achieve the same success as his brother seems to have fueled his need to fabricate a similar life as his brother.

[@kristenjustkristen9462]

@@Tsadie1 Jealousy is certainly a nasty bug. Right after Mitchell has a legitimate health scare with diabetes, his brother suddenly falls down the stairs and suffered a "concussion." The prosecutor was right in saying these lies were comical. I believe his parents were beginning to uncover more of his lies besides just the job. They probably called him out about the fall as well as everything else. He's a lazy unmotivated leech. All he had to do was get a job and move out if he was truly so unhappy. But he didn't want to work for a living, he wanted his parent's money that they worked their whole adult lives to achieve. I just hope his poor mother didn't see it coming..I can't imagine the utter heartbreak that she'd have knowing her youngest son killed his father and now is killing you.

[@chattycoryn5064]

Excellent opening. I truly believe that attorneys have to be somewhat storytellers when at work. This prosecutor was great!

[@LexNoxus]

Its the reason B.A. English is one of the best Pre-Law degrees ngl

[@jenniferfrescura6403]

A case is really just a play, each one has to present themselves on stage, and the better the actor the more chances you will have at receiving a conviction.

[@newtonianromance]

Best opening statement I have ever heard. Attorney Brown is a master class in delivery, so easy to listen to, very uncomplicated dialogue, respectful.

[@elizabethhall1530]

Best opening I've ever heard. What a fantastic attorney. No "um's" no "like's" no looking at notes ext. Very smart guys and a great story teller. Definitely painted a clear picture of events that took place. I'd watch every trial, if this guy was the DA in those cases.

[@ddonlee]

Toastmaster champion speaker

[@Bette921]

This attorney is so good. Not looking at notes, telling the story calmly, personably, and logically. It is an excellent opening statement.

[@La_Ru-yg8es]

What an excellent young prosecutor! This didn't feel like a typical opening statement; it felt like sitting around a camp fire, listening to a scary story. 😳 Very, very good opening & great style! I like this kid.

[@Theresa89]

I agree he really gripped my interest He literally got my undivided attention the best opening I’ve ever heard 😱 Case close 👌🏽

[@Salvadormtz619]

Yes.. wasn't borring like other's. It was very interesting.

[@La_Ru-yg8es]

@@Salvadormtz619 I rarely (if ever!) find opening statements/closing arguments to be "boring", but, this guy did it extra well! Constructed a concise narrative with good flow, including all the interesting details. He's good at what he does.

[@danieltakacs8222]

I've watched this opening statement 3 times now, beginning to end. It's so captivating and absolutely perfect.

[@junenye]

@@danieltakacs8222 I'm back again too lmao

[@Nina-kt9fc]

This prosecutor is **chef's kiss** What an amazing opening statement. No notes to refer to, no awkward pauses, just told the story like a seasoned story teller. Incredible.

[@gailtrotman5256]

He's a natural stage actor. His voice management, body language, inflection, dramatic in one breath, quiet the next. I didn't want it to end...

[@davidng8870]

Deadly

[@differenttakethanmost]

Fantastic story teller- BUT for the intermittent snot-sucking 😝🤢🤮

[@AI-dp3rd]

It’s January in Wisconsin, give the man a break. He did an incredible job.

[@amyc9155]

@@AI-dp3rd lol yeah well there always has to be at least one Debbie Downer!!

[@michelleseveney9113]

I can’t even imagine how Cat must have felt when this all went down. She must have felt like she was run over by a truck. I can’t even 😢

[@maureenmetcalfe8558]

I have never heard a better opening statement in my life. This guy is good. What a prolific story teller.

[@rachel44306]

I've watched almost every trial available on youtube, and I can say hands down this prosecutor just delivered the most compelling opening statement I've ever seen. I usually don't enjoy watching opening statements because they are boring and filled with details that seem inconsequential. But WOW, William Brown told this story like he'd lived it himself. I can't wait to watch him put this horrible creature in prison for what he did to his parents. It feels silly there is even a trial to be had after watching the opening. Case closed - GUILTY. This guy is GOOD!

[@pommie5093]

So agree, I was really impressed with this opening statement. It was clear, concise and compelling (as you said). I was going to write a comment saying something similar to what you wrote, rachel-44, when I saw your comment that described what I was thinking.

[@mogonogal7654]

Thats facts. - Meek Mill

[@truthseeker2882]

I thought the same. Wow! How horrific

[@tishawhite6926]

It WAS pretty awesome.

[@la1930]

Ditto and agreed 👍🔎👀💯🧠😎👏👏👏👏 From 🇨🇦

[@ginashaffer9293]

Just imagine that you're chandler for a moment. Sitting in this room having no idea what the prosecutors opening statement would be like, and then having the last year of your life summarized by apparently one of the most captivating narrators in recent true crime history. It's possible that the only person who could deliver a better opening might be Morgan Freeman, but I doubt it

[@dannywilliams6290]

Right this prosecutor was amazing!!

[@zlozlozlo]

Morgan Freeman or Scott Sharp.

[@brucesalzwedel2323]

With all the sharing of the documents between the Prosecution and the Defense....I wonder IF the Defense team already had a sort of "script" of what was going to be laid-out to them in the Prosecution's opening statement. Anyone know?

[@dannywilliams6290]

@@brucesalzwedel2323 I have no clue but I doubt it just because how thrown off the defense counsel seemed after this work of art by this man who was obviously meant to be in this line of work. It's very rare that I am so captivated by an opening or closing statement and I watch alot of true crime and trials so while you'd think they'd be privy to this type of information just doesn't seem like it to me although maybe they are and was just surprised by the amazing delivery of the statements, I know I would have been. Amazing prosecutor truly made for this!! Bravo 👏

[@wessexwench6974]

Judge John Hyland is equally captivating. These two men are possibly the two most decent members of the judicial system in the US. Wisconsin is lucky to have them.

[@susiemendenhall4307]

I've listened to this opening statement multiple times and it is STILL riveting. What a gift he has!

[@kandik7641]

Best opening statement from a prosecutor. They're usually boring but this man is a great story teller. He laid out the case perfectly and let everybody know what they'd expect.

[@carladaquila8190]

William Brown Esq. is a masterful, thorough trial attorney. Brilliant opening statement. Bravo!

[@rmaharaj2798]

wow. I'm blown away. Such a sincere and thought out opening statement. My faith in the justice system is restored when I see lawyers like this.

[@akkiko]

Sincere unsure, though out- absolutely. Something I noticed when he was explaining how Chandler got the gun was how careful he was not to alienate anyone on the jury. Dude is extremely savvy.

[@MsChristinaLS]

This was an amazing opening statement! At the end when he was apologizing in advance for what the jury will have to see and endure, I thought that was really thoughtful, yet strategic

[@RedRover22]

This is a rare case where I might have been ready to convict after the opening statement if I was on the jury. DA did a really good job laying out the details.

[@marilynsmith365]

Agreed!!!

[@Baja5280]

After this opening I’m surprised they even had a trial. Great prosecutor!

[@marilynsmith365]

Agreed. Guilty. That's all.

[@GH-oi2jf]

I expect the District Attorney would not offer any deal at all, so the defendant had no incentive to plead guilty.

[@someguyonyoutube-b9w]

If Chandler Halderson had any sense of shame, he’d have pleaded guilty just to spare himself such a public humiliation laying out his astonishing web of lies and his ex-girlfriend and brother the pain of testifying.

[@jbooker7099]

I think the jurors would've found him guilty after hearing that opening statement alone. Amazing job!

[@susiedean5688]

Great opening. This prosecutor is so good at keeping your attention. I was completely hanging on his every word. Wonderful at putting a story together. And he did it in such a calm matter of fact manner. Wonderful job!

[@LillysConner]

Omg I could listen to him all day, think am in love with William Brown 😍 🤣

[@debbie.doodle_]

Judge was quite attentive too!!!

[@zlozlozlo]

This has now become one of the videos I listen to while I work, and there's no denying that's pretty messed up.

[@paulaellis6242]

Yes, me too, especially love this procescutor.

[@hannsolotx8568]

His facial expressions while talking is also telling the story to the jury, slight smiles and doubtful glances while explaining these endless lies. So well done. Justice was served 👏 👏 👏

[@williamhurrelbrink3324]

After another year of watching full trials, civil and criminal cases. It’s my opinion that this Attny Brown here is absolutely the best states attorney ever. And has delivered the best opening statement ever spoken. His speaking pattern and cadence and focus on the evidence is so good. Unmatched.

[@cynthiacordell4639]

If you are interested in a very compelling case check out the Ronald Anthony Burgos-Aviles case that recently concluded in Texas. All branches of law enforcement and the prosecution worked together so smoothly to bring justice to the two victims. Very sad though

[@StellaFl]

@@cynthiacordell4639 I second that!! Prosecutor Chilo Alaniz was also excellent!

[@marilyndeleon7248]

I love how the judge keeps looking at this prosecutor when he's describing every single detail in this case without hesitation. Job well done!!! Thanks for sharing this video.

[@janicefarmer2387]

This is the most articulated opening statement I've every hear. It was so well put together, you would swear it was his story he was telling. BRAVO YOUNG MAN.. 👏 KNOWING SOMEONE IS SO PASSIONATE ABOUT JUSTICE IS A COMFORTING FEELING.

[@joecutts83]

Totally agree. He also name dropped Mario 64 as a video game reference., which is perfect.

[@tobiasvanderhorst]

The best opening statement I have ever seen. May the kid get life. I cannot help but feel bad for his brother, girlfriend, and of course Bart and Krista. RIP.

[@Susan-ev2ll]

I've watched and re-watched William Brown deliver this opening at least 15 times. It is great, from the way he played everything out, to his timing and body language it truly is the best. I agree, it the target other prosecutors need to aim for.

[@LuckySpinster.]

DA's opening statement, as traumatic as it could have been, was one of the easiest to listen to and digest

[@heyheytaytay]

No wonder it only took the jury 2 hours to convict. Chandler's mom's last text message is beyond heartbreaking. You feel for the older brother and the rest of the family. Imagine the cost of lies being so great you do the unthinkable.

[@WobblesandBean]

That last text breaks my heart. To think of her, cheerfully buying a soda, thinking how nice it is to give her son a small gift, clueless that the son she loves more than anything is about to end her in an unspeakably brutal fashion....it makes me wanna go hug my mom.

[@heathernikki5734]

@@WobblesandBean and he didn’t even ask nicely

[@maceyanna]

This is one thing that always bothers me when I listen to this case. Something about that just feels like.. “truly blindsided and stabbed in the back,” literally.

[@Cinder_311]

Feel for Kat too

[@markmike7933]

I was caught in lies in my 20s that could have conceivably sent me to prison for a number of years. Credit card fraud against my own mother was one of them. I remember the morning she got the first call and figured out what was going on GOD that breaks my heart, how I caused her grief for a few years in my 20s. It NEVER occurred to me that ending a life was an option to get out of trouble. No less my mom!!!! She's 90 now. I am 55. Had lots of years to make it up to her. Have tried my best. I was bad in my 20s. This kid is a SICK MONSTER. He was gonna kill sooner or later, I believe.

[@anovemberstar]

what a lovely prosecutor - proof you can do a great job without yelling and screaming and insulting anyone else!

[@abby4027]

Thomas Binger should take notes.

[@punkyspray]

I will never understand how someone can do this to their parents, or how some parents harm their children, my mind cannot go there. 🥺

[@kimkilljoy]

Our brains (i.e. mental illnesses) are so incredibly complex.. we are _all_ capable of the unthinkable under certain circumstances. It says a lot about society that we'd rather lock someone in a cage for the rest of their lives than rehabilitate them or even acknowledge their mental health issues that caused them to commit the crime to begin with. We can take their lives from them but they can't do the same. Just some things I think about, don't mind me lol

[@bowlingbbabe]

He was exposed I don't think he thought about it. Bart probably said he was cutting him off financially for lying bc it was such a huge elaborate lie

[@charsiu_808]

End times. It's only going to get worse

[@gordonaliasme1104]

Horror lurks in the darkness

[@anewkgirl6132]

@@kimkilljoy wow that's an interesting way to look at it. I've read comments of people wishing the same treatment or worse to these kinds of depraved criminals and even then I can't fathom doing something like that back to them- even to a guilty person. So yeah, you stick them in the jail ("cage") forever.

[@wernerschacht7642]

The prosecutor has chosen the right job.

[@someguyonyoutube-b9w]

I wouldn’t be surprised if we’re looking at a future Attorney General of Wisconsin.

[@Chris-b4w8t]

I watched this opening statement three separate times now. I really can't get enough. He's so good at what he does. I need to see other trials he was on.

[@ashleygaw4112]

This lawyer is amazing… the way he carries himself, it’s captivating

[@ann-mariewilliams1712]

This prosecutor did a phenomenal job during his opening statement. I listened to every single word the entire hour and 7 minutes without missing a beat.

[@jleif7736]

This prosecutor is great at what he does. No fluff, no opinions. Just straight evidence and facts.

[@lothairelauwagie8758]

Following this trial from Belgium!Yes he is great!

[@glamdolly30]

Agreed. I'm struggling to understand why more attorneys aren't as good as he is at communicating a clear and compelling narrative of events. That is central to any attorney's skill-set, yet so few lawyers can hold a court's attention as he did. They typically waffled, hesitate, include irrelevant detail and omit the stuff that speaks to a jury on a human level of a defendant's guilt or innocence. There was none of that from William Brown. His speech was spot on and delivered with calm, measured authority. The prosecutor had everyone transfixed throughout his hour-long opening statement. By the end of it the accused Chandler Halderson's balls must have shrunk to the size of frozen peas, and his defence lawyers must have wanted to throw their files on the floor and run! Great job Mr Brown, nail and jail that cruel, lazy, entitled piece of parent-murdering excrement! If someone I love is murdered, I 100% want that guy prosecuting them. Halderson is done for. I hope he likes bad food, boys and crapping in a bucket - 'cos that's what his life will be after Mr Brown is through with him.

[@TekniQx]

Agreed. This guy is an exceptional prosecutor. Although to be fair, he has a very solid case on his hands. The evidence against Chandler Halderson is overwhelming. Wisconsin is one of those states where pleading guilty to murder still nets you a life sentence, so defendants are more likely to just take their chances with a jury trial since they really have nothing to lose.

[@lizgander9172]

@@glamdolly30 frozen peas 😂😂😂

[@theforeverpuddle8754]

​@@TekniQx This was a very high profile case as well. I don't think he had an option other than a guilty plea. The question was whether he wanted his lies exposed to everyone or just plead guilty. I highly doubt the state offered a plea bargain in this case. This case brought a lot of positive attention to all the departments involved in this investigation and prosecution. They did a very thorough job. This was as much a dog and pony show as it was a murder trial.

[@jessicadudson4734]

i've been into true crime and court proceedings for a while and this is probably the most incredible opening statement i've ever seen. William Brown, keep doing what you're doing!

[@peachylady]

I can't believe he tried to burn their decapitated heads in their fire place... just insane.

[@janburrows128]

This is the opening statement that got me into watching trials. I have yet to see a better opening statement than this one

[@anniepalmer5232]

Can’t wait to hear what the defense says. Seems like it’s an open & shut case. The prosecutor did an amazing job.

[@sww3405]

Unfortunately- the defense will probably involve smearing the partners and making them seem like abusers or something. Same every time.

[@whomee]

I normally can’t finish opening statements but this one was well done. He told a clear story of what his case is about.

[@cbragg923]

Officially a William Brown fan 👏🏻 Thank you so much for representing our state of Wisconsin in this trial and for hopefully bringing Mr. and Mrs. Halderson some much needed and deserved justice!!

[@RedDotInABlueState91]

This is the best Prosecutorial opening statement I've ever heard in a court case. Mr. Brown is calm, concise, and lays out everything perfectly. The fact that Chandler burned his parent's severed heads in the fireplace after killing them is horrifying.

[@beanj580]

What a disgusting human being. If he could do this to his parents, imagine what he could do to anyone. He is a sick young man and I'm glad he will forever be locked away. I hope his brother is able to somehow find peace and rebuild his life.

[@rumham7466]

Yea I’d say Cat is a lucky woman getting out of that!

[@michael-i6p]

He was born on The Ides of March....!

[@christina5kids16grands]

This prosecuting attorney is excellent. Very down to earth, easy to listen to, actually kind of entertaining in how he tells the story. He's engaging, personable, amicable...those are things so valuable in light of the importance of this case. I am paying attention, but from what I'm hearing so far, he sounds guilty. I have 5 married kids, 14 grands. I just cannot imagine...

[@TheDawnbringer]

Mr Brown needs his own True Crime and Law series. He is amazing!

[@anthonydaily7766]

Off topic but ur eyes and pretty face stopped my. Scrolling. U are ver y attractive.

[@TheDawnbringer]

@@anthonydaily7766 I appreciate the compliment.

[@anthonydaily7766]

The pleasure was all mine.

[@denisehollifield717]

this prosecutor makes me feel like i was right there. he did an incredible job. chandler, you are a monster.

[@zvsmith2008]

This is a Masterclass for any Lawyers opening Statement 🐐🐐👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾

[@steve7015]

You know those jurors are thinking, Ok, let us deliberate and go home. This case is over.

[@donnaengel6413]

I’m wowed by Dane County Deputy District Attorney William Brown and mesmerized by the clarity and precision in his opening statement for the prosecution in WI v. Chandler Halderson.

[@JamesCM86]

This opening statement was extremely clear, and compelling. He did an amazing job. Such a gruesome case, I really feel for this jury.

[@Kim-ss5bb]

Exactly I have heard of cops or detectives that have retired because of a certain case

[@angelagoudy5923]

Man…. It is complete silence in this court room. Every one is captivated with this prosecutors words. Nothing but facts and evidence. Well well done man. Bravo!

[@GoBlue1956]

The Prosecuting Attorney knows his craft well. He didn’t have to refer to any notes, etc. Kudos!

[@psicologamarcelacollado5863]

Impressive opening statement! Up there with Mr. Martinez from the Jodi Arias trial. Made me want to watch the whole trial.

[@KariPusia6]

True, I loved watching mr Martinez, i rewatched a lot of parts of the trial a couple of times. This prosecutor here and Martinez are chef's kiss, amazing to watch them.

[@PlayMistie4Me]

Yes 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽 Juan Martinez closing was also an absolute masterpiece. I found out something in closing that made my jaw drop & made me rewatch the trial. To me it was more compelling than the gas can evidence. Outstanding attorney 💫

[@teresacaltroni5649]

mr martinez>>>

[@m.j.mbrooks1859]

My thoughts exactly. Juan Martinez was a rockstar in that trial. This is the second case where a prosecutor nailed my attention from start to finish.

[@esver1883]

One of the better prosecutors out there. Impressive opening statement.

[@Goldie9899]

Extremely!!

[@victoriousangel8911]

The prosecutor is doing a phenomenal job. He relates the case just the way it is… never at one time look into a script. Whilst engaging the courtroom with what is being said.

[@archieamicable]

He put more work into lying than an actual job

[@alyssawatson2161]

It had to have been more exhausting than having a legit job too! Some people don't have sound thinking skills.

[@ruthfhunt2613]

I keep re-watching this -one of the best opening statements from a prosecutor ever but he also had a bizarre story to tell.

[@nimih23]

I just keep re-watching this video. Mr Brown's gestures and intonation is just perfect.

[@vz4779]

Wow, great opening statement by the prosecutor: clear, detailed, and to the point. Very impressive.

[@kristinadube7032]

Absolutely amazing, perfectly articulated prosecution opening statement. I’m more than happy to have been able to see his work, despite the overwhelmingly sad circumstances. If anyone will get this couple and family justice, it will be this prosecution.

[@glamdolly30]

Agreed, it's great to see such a gifted prosecutor do such a fantastic job for the murder victims who have no voice, and those who will grieve their loss to the end of their days. William Brown is a star.

[@alexkidd1906]

Some people do not deserve to live amongst us. To dismember someone, especially your parents, they do not deserve to be in society.

[@samanthanorris5594]

I’ve watched this opening countless times. The prosecutors from the Apple River stabbing should take note. This opening is nothing short of brilliant.

[@johanash2010]

I came here because someone said on another video to come watch the opening statement. Let’s just say this is the best one I’ve ever heard. He did an amazing job. I watched the entire thing on my TV and I’m rewatching again on my phone because the way he explained and had all his points and told the story is just captivating.

[@nancyjones6780]

I've watched it probably 15 times. Never gets old!

[@KL92105]

The opening statement by the prosecutor was delivered so well that I wish it was longer!

[@brettv1789]

Clearest opening statement I have ever seen. It was pretty obvious the kid did it before the trial even started but that man just ended it with an opening statement😂

[@amyc9155]

I love the subtle dig when he talks about how his brother was doing "adult things"

[@Protectra]

This prosecutor… I am stunned. I have never been so glued to watching something, he did an impeccable job of painting that very complex picture in an hour. I am literally in shock. 🙌

[@sugartub]

This prosecutor's opening statement & delivery are incredible!

[@gmin422]

wow, this opening is so good! could listen to him all day

[@Theresa89]

Same here 😂 he’s like a storyteller with so much facts to deliver. This is gripping stuff he’s the right man for the job 👏🏽👏🏽👌🏽❤️

[@teresathayn5170]

Yeah, he's kinda hot. Intelligence is sexy!

[@marthab7059]

That opening statement was an hour and felt like 10 minutes. This prosecutor is a master storyteller!

[@jcmore7971]

Goodness this prosecutor is an amazing story teller. He is interesting to listen to, easy to follow, compelling, and has an easy voice to listen to as well. Great opening !!!

[@matthewerspamer6274]

“The best way out of your pretend job, is an even more pretend job” -Chandler Halderson

[@starfish2405]

This opening statement is exactly what THE TRUTH sounds like. Not "my" truth or "your" truth. Its clear, sharp, memorable.

[@JackieSwisher619]

Wow, juicy case! You know it’s good stuff when the courtroom goes dead quiet. Good opening.

[@Theresa89]

😂 we are all so excited and well on board with this one 😂

[@AUTISTICLYCAN]

This guy is a great lawyer and a better story teller. This is the most effective opening statement I have ever witnessed.

[@mcdonols]

Bro beautiful opening statement. I’m sure the jury appreciated having a clear timeline. Compelling too; the story itself is compelling, but it takes a good narrator to tell it. 10/10

[@impitt28]

This was the best opening statement I’ve seen so far. He laid out the story and the evidence so well. Narration of the events perfectly done.😊

[@33Jenesis]

Mitchell looks like his mother. Chandler looks like his dad. This young prosecutor is terrific in his opening statement. He’s clearly gifted in litigation profession by having clear diction, phrasing, even tone and pacing, and just enough drama without being over the top.