Roger Paul Bradford appeared before Loudoun County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court on Tuesday, declaring his intention to represent himself in the murder case stemming from the September 22 death of his wife, Lisa Bradford, in their Aldie home.
Self‑representation request
During a video appearance before substitute judge Kelly King, Bradford was asked whether he intended to hire a private attorney. He responded, “I don’t want a bond hearing — I’m right where I need to be,” and later added, “I plan to represent myself, your honor.”
Judge King cautioned Bradford against speaking extemporaneously without counsel present and indicated she would set a counsel‑review date should he later decide to retain an attorney or request a public defender.
Procedural background
Bradford was returned to Virginia from Pennsylvania after waiving extradition. He had been arrested in a rental car on the Pennsylvania Turnpike and was subsequently housed at the Loudoun County jail. When asked about his legal preparation, Bradford claimed he had “spent 14 days in a dungeon” in Pennsylvania and lacked his Bible or glasses to read court filings.
The judge initially suggested an October 28 hearing, but Bradford requested a later date, noting it would coincide with his wife’s birthday. Lisa Bradford would have turned 54 later that month, according to her obituary. Judge King then set an attorney‑review hearing for October 21, and Bradford said he would be available.
Investigation details
Search warrants obtained by the Loudoun County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office reveal a journal found in Bradford’s rented Kia Sportage that listed the names of individuals he intended to kill, including his wife. Investigators say that on the morning of September 22, Bradford traveled to an Extra Space Storage facility in Ashburn to retrieve ammunition from a storage unit, then proceeded to Home Depot in South Riding to purchase large zip ties.
Later that morning, Lisa Bradford was discovered with her arms zip‑tied behind her and a pillow riddled with bullet holes placed over her head. The case now proceeds to a preliminary hearing, where the court will determine whether sufficient evidence exists to move forward to trial.
Legal context
Second‑degree murder in Virginia carries a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison, while the firearm charge adds additional penalties. Defendants who choose to represent themselves waive the right to professional legal guidance, a decision the court monitors closely to ensure a fair process.
Bradford remains held without bond pending the upcoming attorney‑review hearing. The community continues to watch the case closely, given the tragic nature of the crime and the questions surrounding self‑representation in serious felony matters.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
