The self-styled “Dreadhead Cowboy,” who is representing himself on a charge of animal cruelty, had his case set for trial Wednesday — and indicated that he wants to call Mayor Lori Lightfoot as a character witness.

       Adam Hollingsworth, the Dreadhead Cowboy, speaks during a press conference, Sept. 24, 2020. (Erin Hooley / Chicago Tribune)

       Trial for Adam Hollingsworth, 34, was scheduled for Nov. 29 after he formally demanded trial Wednesday.

       Judge Michael McHale repeatedly warned that Hollingsworth’s demand for trial is an assurance that he is completely ready to go, and he would not be granted any delays.

       Hollingsworth said he has not yet subpoenaed anyone to testify in his defense. But in a court filing Wednesday, he said he wants to call Lightfoot as a character witness.

       The mayor’s office, capitalizing on Hollingsworth’s massive social media popularity, recruited Hollingsworth last summer to be the “Census Cowboy,” encouraging Chicagoans to fill out their census.

       As the Dreadhead Cowboy, Hollingsworth and his horses had become a familiar sight at neighborhood events and protests, and his unusual story drew national attention.

       Dreadhead Cowboy, Adam Hollingsworth, rides his horse down the local lanes of Dan Ryan Expressway with motorcycles and motorists to support Kids Lives Matter on Sept. 21, 2020. (Todd Panagopoulos / Chicago Tribune)

       But the feel-good story came to an abrupt end in September 2020, when he was charged with felony animal cruelty after being accused of mistreating his horse in a 7？-mile gallop, on the Dan Ryan, during a protest. The journey allegedly ended with the animal severely injured and near death.

       Hollingsworth has maintained his innocence.

       After the trial date was set Wednesday, Hollingsworth returned to his seat in the courtroom gallery and stretched his arms across the back of the bench.

       “Ah, time to get the ball rolling,” he said. “I’m ready for (my horse) to come home.”

       mcrepeau@chicagotribune.com

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