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Manteca Man Accused Of Driving With Wife On Hood Arraigned

MANTECA (CBS / AP) -- A Central Valley man charged with attempted murder after authorities say he drove nearly 40 miles with his wife clinging to the hood of his minivan had a rather bizarre initial court appearance.

When Christopher Carroll appeared in a San Joaquin County courtroom Thursday, he refused the help of a public defender, then told the judge that he was guilty.

"I did that to my wife, I did that to my wife," Carroll said.

After Carroll confessed in court, the judge told him his charges carry life in prison.

"I've refused counsel already," said Carroll. "I just want to tell the truth."

The 36-year Carroll is being held without bail on charges of attempted murder, kidnapping and domestic assault after authorities said he drove from Manteca to Pleasanton Saturday with his wife clinging to a windshield wiper and side mirror. The woman, whose name has not been released, suffered hypothermia.

Police said Carroll's bizarre behavior began the day before the attack when police arrested him for trying to swim in his dumpster. Carroll also told police that he wanted to commit suicide.

"His behavior was abnormal, we're thinking drugs or alcohol was involved," said Officer Rex Osborn of the Manteca Police Department.

Following that incident, Carroll was taken to jail and then released.

San Joaquin County Superior Court Judge Ron Northup transferred the case to a Stockton court for further arraignment.

Carroll is being held without bail.

(© 2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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