John Bujak opts to defend himself

CREATED Nov. 5, 2012

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BOISE, Idaho (AP) -- Usually, a defendant goes on the witness stand to stand up for themselves.

But former Canyon County Prosecutor John Bujak stands up in front of jurors every day in his felony misuse of public funds trial in Canyon County.

The Idaho Statesman details how Bujak is representing himself, a strategy that in some lawyers' view is as unconventional as it is risky.

Former Idaho Attorney General David Leroy says Bujak, as both the defendant and counsel, runs the risk of allowing his emotions to get the better of him as he seeks to avoid a prison term.

As his trial enters its second week, Bujak concedes risks but believes he's the best person to defend himself against charges he diverted $236,000.

He's advised by two public defenders.

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Information from: Idaho Statesman, http://www.idahostatesman.com