Milwaukee transgender woman killed, Howze testifies at trial

MILWAUKEE - The man accused of killing a transgender woman in Milwaukee testified in his own trial on Friday, June 7.

Cordell Howze is charged with killing Cashay Henderson in 2023. He told the jury the two were friends and maintained his innocence.

"I am here to clear my name," Howze said.

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New information revealed in court Friday included videos that prosecutors said show Howze filming inside Henderson's apartment after she was killed. Howze testified he does not recall that night. Prosecutors also accuse Howze of setting the apartment on fire.

"I am denying I caused this person’s death," he said.

Howze said he was friends with Henderson and did not know she was transgender.

"She was a good friend of mine," he testified. "It wasn’t a sexual relationship, sir. We had mutual respect."

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Prosecutors pulled up cellphone records that showed Howze went to several websites and searched for things like a Milwaukee transgender escort on the day Henderson was killed. They also allege he recorded a video of himself after Henderson was killed in which he called her the devil.

Howze admitted it was him in the video, but denied killing Henderson. He said he was protecting her and that he was "conducting an investigation."

During his testimony, Howze repeatedly said he does not recall much from the date Henderson was killed.

Both the state and defense have now rested. The trial will continue on Monday with closing arguments. 

Read more Howze trial coverage

• Milwaukee transgender woman homicide trial; jury selection underway
• Milwaukee transgender woman homicide trial; opening statements, testimony
• Milwaukee transgender woman killed, suspect's trial continues
• Milwaukee transgender woman homicide trial; more witnesses take the stand

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