Man accused of killing Deputy Dhaliwal fires his lawyers just prior to capital murder trial

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Just as the murder trial for a man accused of shooting and killing Harris County Sheriff’s Deputy Sandeep Dhaliwal in 2019 was set to begin, a bombshell announcement came from the defendant.

He fired his attorneys.

Robert Solis, 50, is charged with capital murder, accused of shooting Dhaliwal during a traffic stop, reportedly firing his gun several times.

During court proceedings on Monday morning, just before the beginning of the trial, Solis’ court-appointed attorneys confirmed that Solis fired them.

“Mr. Solis will represent himself,” attorney Allan Isbell said. “He has the right to do so. The court has examined him and found that he has sufficient knowledge and capability and has granted that motion.”

Solis told the judge multiple times he wasn’t prepared, even asking for time at the law library.

Prosecutors called up several witnesses, including a trauma surgeon and medical examiner.

Solis chose to delay his opening statement.

After the state rests, Solis will have his chance to present his case.

Dhaliwal was a well-known deputy who was considered to be a trailblazer for being the department’s first Sikh deputy.

He also worked to change the agency’s policy to allow religious expressions while on duty.