Teen Arrested in Miami-Dade Cat Killings

[rem16]

An 18-year-old was arrested early Sunday and charged in the recent killings and mutilation of more than a dozen cats which have terrorized pet owners in Palmetto and Cutler bays, authorities said.

Tyler Hayes Weinman, who recently attended Miami Palmetto Senior High, was charged with 19 counts of animal cruelty, 19 counts of improperly disposing of an animal body and four counts of burglary.

http://www.miamiherald.com/854/story/1096711.html

So glad they got this sick kid, cats are safe again.

[Roamer]

I read that this morning. I hope he goes away for a very long time!

[sunstar]

Miami Police Arrest Teen in Brutal Cat Killings After Dozens Found Mutilated

Miami-area cat owners can breathe a sigh of relief following the arrest of an 18-year-old who police say mutilated and killed nearly three dozen cats.

Tyler Weinman, 18, was arrested by the Miami-Dade Police Department in connection with a series of cat killings and mutilations in his Miami-area community.

Tyler Weinman was charged with 19 counts of animal cruelty, four counts of burglary and 19 counts of improper disposing of an animal body, according to ABC affiliate WPLG.

more at: http://www.abcnews.go.com/US/AmazingAnimals/story?id=7836149&page=1

WARNING ~ ARTICLE CONTAINS GRAPHIC DETAILS


:45024::45024::45024::madranting94dp:

[TigressPen]

I am thrilled they found this person!

[sunstar]

I am thrilled they found this person!

So am I but I just wish the punishment would fit the crime ~ if you know what I mean! :madranting94dp::madranting94dp::madranting94dp:

[texanne]

He is a very sick, dangerous person who must be kept away from society.

[rem16]

He is a very sick, dangerous person who must be kept away from society.

You're so right.. that's how Jeffrey Dahmer started out, mutiliating small animals. God only knows what this kid would graduate to, if not stopped. And he's Jewish too! (I'm Jewish, so it hit's particularly hard) Hopefully his parents don't hire an expensive lawyer to get him off,(which I doubt) or a light sentence..

[sunstar]

You're so right.. that's how Jeffrey Dahmer started out, mutiliating small animals. God only knows what this kid would graduate to, if not stopped. And he's Jewish too! (I'm Jewish, so it hit's particularly hard) Hopefully his parents don't hire an expensive lawyer to get him off,(which I doubt) or a light sentence..

Sadly it will be the burglary charges that will get him the most prison time, not what he did to all the innocent cats. :1187603408.CR.Mothe

[awakening2lite]

http://a.abcnews.com/images/US/abc_tyler_kitty_090614_mn.jpg
Tyler Weinman, 18, was arrested by the Miami-Dade Police Department in connection with a series of cat killings and mutilations in his Miami-area community. Miss Kitty, inset, was among the nearly three dozen cats that were killed.
(AP Photo/Courtesy Thomas and Mary Lou Shad)

(Link courtesy of SunStar)


Even those who do evil can appear ordinary. IMO

[sunstar]

http://a.abcnews.com/images/US/abc_tyler_kitty_090614_mn.jpg
Tyler Weinman, 18, was arrested by the Miami-Dade Police Department in connection with a series of cat killings and mutilations in his Miami-area community. Miss Kitty, inset, was among the nearly three dozen cats that were killed.
(AP Photo/Courtesy Thomas and Mary Lou Shad)

(Link courtesy of SunStar)


Even those who do evil can appear ordinary. IMO
I noticed the smile on his face when I read the story, but it seems almost unbelievable this could be his mugshot! Even firing up Ol' Sparkey would seem too kind for someone who committed these crimes. :madranting94dp:


It's so heartbreaking to see the photo of Miss Kitty. She looks like one of my babies. :1187603408.CR.Mothe

Rest in Peace to all the beautiful kitty fur babies :1222423:

[awakening2lite]

I noticed the smile on his face when I read the story, but it seems almost unbelievable this could be his mugshot! Even firing up Ol' Sparkey would seem too kind for someone who committed these crimes. :madranting94dp:


It's so heartbreaking to see the photo of Miss Kitty. She looks like one of my babies. :1187603408.CR.Mothe

Rest in Peace to all the beautiful kitty fur babies :1222423:


Yes, Miss Kitty does look very like your kitty in your avatar. Thank goodness you rescued your fur baby!

It would seems the arrested kitty killer is not the only one in the area.

EXCERPT (same link)

According to WPLG, police had issued multiple arrest warrants for suspects, but did not say how many. Until police say all possible suspects are in custody, Shad said she and her husband will continue to keep their two other cats safely indoors.

[sunstar]

Yes, Miss Kitty does look very like your kitty in your avatar. Thank goodness you rescued your fur baby!

It would seems the arrested kitty killer is not the only one in the area.

EXCERPT (same link)

According to WPLG, police had issued multiple arrest warrants for suspects, but did not say how many. Until police say all possible suspects are in custody, Shad said she and her husband will continue to keep their two other cats safely indoors.

That's just why my kitties are indoors! The one in the avatar is just one of the black cats I've had over the years though, and there's another one in the house now too.

It is very sad though that cats can't even roam around a nice neighborhood without fear of evil humans. I sure hope LE catches all these monsters and soon before more babies die. :45024:

[awakening2lite]

That's just why my kitties are indoors! The one in the avatar is just one of the black cats I've had over the years though, and there's another one in the house now too.

It is very sad though that cats can't even roam around a nice neighborhood without fear of evil humans. I sure hope LE catches all these monsters and soon before more babies die. :45024:

All 50 states carry animal cruelty laws on their books, but seldom is it taken seriously enough to have a real impact on the perps life. I wonder sometimes, why it isn't taken as a threat to the safety to the neighborhoods because of the well known fact of progression from animals to violence on humans. If what they do to the animals isn't enough to instill fear and a maximum sentence, then fear of the likely next step should.

I'm proud of the hero's who investigated the killings and who continue to seek out the rest of the cowards who kill the helpless innocents.

This being his first offense I am doubtful he will receive the time he so deserves.

[sunstar]

All 50 states carry animal cruelty laws on their books, but seldom is it taken seriously enough to have a real impact on the perps life. I wonder sometimes, why it isn't taken as a threat to the safety to the neighborhoods because of the well known fact of progression from animals to violence on humans. If what they do to the animals isn't enough to instill fear and a maximum sentence, then fear of the likely next step should.

I'm proud of the hero's who investigated the killings and who continue to seek out the rest of the cowards who kill the helpless innocents.

This being his first offense I am doubtful he will receive the time he so deserves.

I couldn't agree more! So often it has been proven this is only the beginning. :madranting94dp: MOO

[rem16]

excerpt from article..

"The clean-cut Weinman flashed a smug smile for his mug shot, taken when he was booked in jail Sunday.

Weinman attorney, David Macey, said his client is innocent. Weinman is expected to be arraigned on Monday. His bail has been set at $154,500."

http://www.miamiherald.com/459/story/1096711.html

[sunstar]

excerpt from article..

"The clean-cut Weinman flashed a smug smile for his mug shot, taken when he was booked in jail Sunday.

Weinman attorney, David Macey, said his client is innocent. Weinman is expected to be arraigned on Monday. His bail has been set at $154,500."

http://www.miamiherald.com/459/story/1096711.html
I'm not surprised that he has a lawyer or that he's proclaiming his innocence but I doubt with the number of counts against him that the MDPD is that wrong! MOO

Also from the article ~

"At the morning news conference, Miami-Dade Police Maj. Julie Miller assigned to Cutler Bay said investigators tracked Weinman through tips from the community and postings on YouTube, Facebook and MySpace.

''What led to the arrest is the community talking and bringing us information,'' Miller said.

She said Weinman killed 19 cats ''based on a totality of circumstances'' and added the investigation is still ongoing and may stretch to other jurisdictions."

:45024:

[awakening2lite]

I'm not surprised that he has a lawyer or that he's proclaiming his innocence but I doubt with the number of counts against him that the MDPD is that wrong! MOO

Also from the article ~

"At the morning news conference, Miami-Dade Police Maj. Julie Miller assigned to Cutler Bay said investigators tracked Weinman through tips from the community and postings on YouTube, Facebook and MySpace.

''What led to the arrest is the community talking and bringing us information,'' Miller said.

She said Weinman killed 19 cats ''based on a totality of circumstances'' and added the investigation is still ongoing and may stretch to other jurisdictions."

:45024:


And there's more:

EXCERPT

Weinman had recently joined Facebook group named ''Catch the Cat Killer!'' which had more than 1,000 members. The administrators of the group attended Palmetto High, like Weinman.

EXCERPT

Police say that Weinman -- whose mother once led Crime Watch in her old Palmetto Bay neighborhood and whose stepmother owns several cats -- used tools to slice open cats' bellies and gut them, often throwing the carcasses in front yards where they were found by horrified pet owners.


In the first case in May 10 - Mother's Day - two cats were sliced open and left on a front yard. One of the animals was ''posed'' for shock effect, according to a police report.




This is imo a very scary man. I'm glad they have started to take the steps necessary to stop him.

[sunstar]

It's too unbearable for me to read any more tonight or I'll be having nightmares. :1187603408.CR.Mothe I'm just going to hug and love my babies and thank God this monster is in jail and pray he will be for a long time.

[rem16]

All 50 states carry animal cruelty laws on their books, but seldom is it taken seriously enough to have a real impact on the perps life. I wonder sometimes, why it isn't taken as a threat to the safety to the neighborhoods because of the well known fact of progression from animals to violence on humans. If what they do to the animals isn't enough to instill fear and a maximum sentence, then fear of the likely next step should.

I'm proud of the hero's who investigated the killings and who continue to seek out the rest of the cowards who kill the helpless innocents.

This being his first offense I am doubtful he will receive the time he so deserves.

Even though this is his first offense, his crimes were so heinous that I think he will get at least 10 years, IMO. What Judge will put this kid back on the streets soon, if he is proven guilty. The killer mutilated a police officer's cat for cripes sake! :45024:

[Roamer]

http://www.abc3340.com/news/stories/0609/631934.html


MIAMI - The answer to mysterious cat killings that horrified pet owners and disturbed residents of two South Florida communities for months was not far away from where the animals' mutilated bodies were discovered, authorities say. In some cases, investigators said the suspect was just a few houses away.

Tyler Hayes Weinman, whose divorced parents live in the neighborhoods where many of the cats were killed, was charged Sunday with 19 counts each of animal cruelty and improperly disposing of an animal body.

"It's shocking to think that someone who lives right here and is our neighbor would do something like this," said Thomas Shad, a Cutler Bay resident whose black cat, Miss Kitty, was among the dead. The body of the small feral cat - which Shad and his wife, Mary Lou, had fed and cared for about a year - was found behind an abandoned house, near the hedges where she slept.




"Now we feel like we can let our cats out of the patio," said Shad, as the couple's new kitten, Miss Prissy, played near his feet. "Perhaps we have part of our life back."

Authorities said they had been watching Weinman for some time. A few weeks ago, investigators swept in to interview him on his prom night, neighbors said, picking him up in his tuxedo before the big dance. He was arrested at a party on Sunday.

"If they do get the wrong guy and it's not him, they've ruined his life as it is right now," said 19-year-old Kyle Hantzis, who lives next door.

Weinman's attorney, David W. Macey, said in an e-mail that his client was innocent of the charges.

"Tyler welcomes his day in court, so that he will be completely vindicated," Macey said.

In the past month, residents in the Palmetto Bay and Cutler Bay neighborhoods have reported finding the bodies of more than two dozen cats, although police said some were likely killed by dogs. Some were missing fur - neighbors said some had been skinned - and appeared to have been cut with a sharp, straight instrument, police said.

"What a horrible, horrific death for any animal," said Nancy Mayes, whose cat, Sheba, was found dead this May. "We can only hope, I can only hope, that he killed her fast and instantly so that she didn't endure the pain of the knife, the mutilation."

Louis B. Schlesinger, a professor of forensic psychology at John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York, said cat killings are committed by "complicated individuals," and are usually solo acts. He said the teenager should be evaluated, and he expected court officials to take the matter seriously.

"When you kill cats, disembowel them and cut their heads off, that is not a good sign and you do not have to be Sigmund Freud to see that," he said.

On Sunday, no one answered knocks at Weinman's beige house in the Cutler Bay neighborhood, which Shad said was stitched with police tape early that morning. A welcome mat dotted with pictures of paw prints playfully encouraged visitors to "wipe your paws."

At another address for Weinman in nearby Palmetto Bay, a red-and-black warning told fire crews that a cat lived in the house. Lights were on inside, but no one answered the door.

Messages left at phone numbers for his parents were not returned.

Police said they investigated more than 30 cat deaths since May and were flooded with tips from concerned citizens. Miami-Dade Police Department Maj. Julie Miller said the investigation was still open, but she declined to name other suspects.

Authorities said Weinman was spending his summer doing odd jobs. He was twice arrested as a juvenile, though they said they could not provide details.

[Nut44x4]

I wonder if he wets the bed, has a facination with fire, enjoys peeping/voyeurism and shows signs of anti-social behavior. I have many questions. Perhaps he was in training to be the next Miami-Dade/South Florida Serial Killer. Lock him up and throw away the key..... NOW!

[Roamer]

I agree with that, Nut. This guy is nothing but a future killer of humans.

[LiveLaughLuv]

snipped
EXCERPT (same link)

According to WPLG, police had issued multiple arrest warrants for suspects, but did not say how many. Until police say all possible suspects are in custody, Shad said she and her husband will continue to keep their two other cats safely indoors.

And there's more:

EXCERPT

Weinman had recently joined Facebook group named ''Catch the Cat Killer!'' which had more than 1,000 members. The administrators of the group attended Palmetto High, like Weinman.

EXCERPT

Police say that Weinman -- whose mother once led Crime Watch in her old Palmetto Bay neighborhood and whose stepmother owns several cats -- used tools to slice open cats' bellies and gut them, often throwing the carcasses in front yards where they were found by horrified pet owners.


In the first case in May 10 - Mother's Day - two cats were sliced open and left on a front yard. One of the animals was ''posed'' for shock effect, according to a police report.

This is imo a very scary man. I'm glad they have started to take the steps necessary to stop him.

Horrible! True signs of a serial killer in the making..how terribly sad that this young man can disembowel those poor cats, mutilate them and pose them for shock effect..If he is part of this "group", "Catch the Cat killer", I do hope there are more arrests to come...

Animal cruelty at it's worse...

:1222423:

[sunstar]

"Authorities have been searching for the responsible person or persons since shortly after the killings began in April. Miami-Dade Police Department Maj. Julie Miller told the Associated Press that more arrests may follow, but declined to name suspects or give any specific details.

A judge today ordered that Weinman be held on $249,500 bond and demanded a psychological evaluation to determine if he is a danger to himself or others. His attorney, David W. Macey, insists Weinman is innocent and said in an e-mail to the Associated Press that his client "welcomes his day in court, so that he will be completely vindicated.""

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/unleashed/2009/06/teenager-charged-with-animal-cruelty-in-florida-cat-killer-case.html


I also heard the same report on JVM's "Issues" tonight but there isn't link to it yet.

[rem16]

Excerpt from article..

"The police are looking into whether any people Weinman associates with might have been accomplices in the killings. Weinman's sealed juvenile record includes two prior offenses, Miller said.

He could face a maximum of 158 years in state prison if convicted on all counts, said Terry Shavez, spokeswoman for the state attorney's office.

The mayor of Cutler Bay referred to the string of feline attacks as a "plague in South Miami-Dade."

http://www.cnn.com/2009/CRIME/06/15/florida.cat.killer.arrest/index.html

[LiveLaughLuv]

He could face a maximum of 158 years in state prison if convicted on all counts, said Terry Shavez, spokeswoman for the state attorney's office.

That's good...:madranting94dp:

I do hope he does get the maximum sentence allowed by law...

[SavannahStar]

Excerpt from article..

"The police are looking into whether any people Weinman associates with might have been accomplices in the killings. Weinman's sealed juvenile record includes two prior offenses, Miller said.

He could face a maximum of 158 years in state prison if convicted on all counts, said Terry Shavez, spokeswoman for the state attorney's office.

The mayor of Cutler Bay referred to the string of feline attacks as a "plague in South Miami-Dade."

http://www.cnn.com/2009/CRIME/06/15/florida.cat.killer.arrest/index.html

I pray he gets the full 158 years. I really do.

There just are no words for this. This case has made me cry. I didn't even post on here for days.....I cannot even stand reading the thread title.

:sad0119:

[rem16]

excerpt from article..

"Alleged cat mutilator Tyler Weinman is no stranger to feline anatomy -- he dissected the animals last year in class at Palmetto High."


Mental evaluation ordered for suspect in cat killings

A teen accused of killing 19 cats must be held for 48 hours as doctors conduct a psychological evaluation, a judge ruled.

Bail bond set for alleged cat killer, Tyler Weinman

Accused cat killer Tyler Hayes Weinman was ordered to remain in custody to undergo a psychiatric evaluation. Judge Mindy Glazer set the 18-year-old's bail bond at $249,500, and she ordered that he be detained for at least 48 hours.

http://www.miamiherald.com/news/miami-dade/story/1098953.html

[Grande]

http://74.125.95.132/search?q=cache:_IX8kLq_lREJ:profile.myspace.com/index.cfm%3Ffuseaction%3Duser.viewprofile%26friend ID%3D21695190+%22vivalaham2%22&cd=2&hl=en&ct=clnk&gl=us

[LiveLaughLuv]

MySpace URL:

www.myspace.com/vivalaham2

[sunstar]

I pray he gets the full 158 years. I really do.

There just are no words for this. This case has made me cry. I didn't even post on here for days.....I cannot even stand reading the thread title.

:sad0119:

I have the same problem and it's very heartbreaking to me. But on behalf of my three beautiful cats it's important that this case not disappear into oblivion. :1187603408.CR.Mothe

The details, as horrific as they are, have to be out there in order for the world to know just how terrible these crimes are and make sure the person(s) responsible are punished and can't harm another cat ever again. Or have the chance to move on to becoming another serial killer of humans. MOO

[sunstar]

excerpt from article..

"Alleged cat mutilator Tyler Weinman is no stranger to feline anatomy -- he dissected the animals last year in class at Palmetto High."

(respectfully snipped)

http://www.miamiherald.com/news/miami-dade/story/1098953.html

OK I'm not defending the perp whatsoever, but why is this part of a science class in high school? What is the school district thinking? This should be saved for those in college studying veterinary medicine. :madranting94dp: MOO

[Sprocket]

When I took my anatomy class at a junior college, cats were the object provided for us to dissect. I don't know if it's true or not, but they "told us" they were humanely euthanized (sp?).

[rem16]

MIAMI, Florida (CNN) -- A judge in Miami allowed the supervised release of a man charged with 19 counts of animal cruelty Wednesday, saying a psychiatric evaluation showed he is competent and not a danger to himself or others.

http://www.cnn.com/2009/CRIME/06/17/florida.cat.killings/index.html


Father says son is no cat killer

MIAMI (WSVN) -- Days after Miami-Dade Police arrested a teen for a neighborhood rampage against cats, a stunned father has stood up to defend his son's innocence.

"They don't know what they're talking about," Doug Weinman said. "They don't know Tyler."

http://www.wsvn.com/news/articles/local/MI123630/

[annalyzer]

MIAMI, Florida (CNN) -- A judge in Miami allowed the supervised release of a man charged with 19 counts of animal cruelty Wednesday, saying a psychiatric evaluation showed he is competent and not a danger to himself or others.

http://www.cnn.com/2009/CRIME/06/17/florida.cat.killings/index.html


Father says son is no cat killer

MIAMI (WSVN) -- Days after Miami-Dade Police arrested a teen for a neighborhood rampage against cats, a stunned father has stood up to defend his son's innocence.

"They don't know what they're talking about," Doug Weinman said. "They don't know Tyler."

http://www.wsvn.com/news/articles/local/MI123630/

I hope they find evidence to prove it one way or another. His father may just get the shock of his life.

[rem16]

I hope they find evidence to prove it one way or another. His father may just get the shock of his life.

I agree, many times parents think they know their child, but the dark side is there and they can't see it. I do wonder why the police didn't catch TW in the act of killing the poor cats, and stop him if they were following him.

[sunstar]

When I took my anatomy class at a junior college, cats were the object provided for us to dissect. I don't know if it's true or not, but they "told us" they were humanely euthanized (sp?).

I certainly hope they were too. :sad0119: Usually biology classes in high school are required and from my own experience, not everyone in them is serious about science. I remember quite a few "jerks" in high school who thought cutting up the little frog was "fun". With so many cases of kids and animal torture that have been in the news I just think it's totally irresponsible of the school district to be using cats, dogs, rabbits, etc. in a required science class. It would be an entirely different thing, imo, if the students were actually interested in veterinary medicine. MOO

[sunstar]

MIAMI, Florida (CNN) -- A judge in Miami allowed the supervised release of a man charged with 19 counts of animal cruelty Wednesday, saying a psychiatric evaluation showed he is competent and not a danger to himself or others.

http://www.cnn.com/2009/CRIME/06/17/florida.cat.killings/index.html


Father says son is no cat killer

MIAMI (WSVN) -- Days after Miami-Dade Police arrested a teen for a neighborhood rampage against cats, a stunned father has stood up to defend his son's innocence.

"They don't know what they're talking about," Doug Weinman said. "They don't know Tyler."

http://www.wsvn.com/news/articles/local/MI123630/
At least he's on electronic monitoring. I pray he doesn't figure out how to take the thing off and go outside...:girl_sad:

[awakening2lite]

I certainly hope they were too. :sad0119: Usually biology classes in high school are required and from my own experience, not everyone in them is serious about science. I remember quite a few "jerks" in high school who thought cutting up the little frog was "fun". With so many cases of kids and animal torture that have been in the news I just think it's totally irresponsible of the school district to be using cats, dogs, rabbits, etc. in a required science class. It would be an entirely different thing, imo, if the students were actually interested in veterinary medicine. MOO

I agree, we should be able to do better.

I'm willing to bet it would be cheaper, in the long run, for schools to purchase molded models accurate in every way for classroom student to disassemble for study. There's no more reason to test chemicals on animals (anymore) and there is no reason to sacrifice them for the classrooms. IMO

The classroom of the vet student might be the exception, but one would think during their internship they would come across more valuable training. IMO

[awakening2lite]

I agree, many times parents think they know their child, but the dark side is there and they can't see it. I do wonder why the police didn't catch TW in the act of killing the poor cats, and stop him if they were following him.

It's his first offense and they will have to prove it. If it weren't for the publicity of the case I would have doubts of him doing any time, even if found guilty or caught red handed. IMO

I am basing my remake on the usual arm long list of offenses many have accrued before they serve a single day. IMO

[awakening2lite]

BTW, I'd like to suggest, if this goes to trial the thread be moved to our Trial forum and placed in it's own forum.

[Roamer]

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090617/ap_on_re_us/us_cats_mutilated

http://d.yimg.com/a/p/ap/20090617/capt.0c3708255c1e43a8be03b78462b31a9f.cats_mutilat ed_flad102.jpg?x=213&y=205&xc=1&yc=1&wc=409&hc=394&q=85&sig=KHisexKXQIjaJkLYrEqHwA-- (http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/Miami/photo//090617/480/0c3708255c1e43a8be03b78462b31a9f//s:/ap/20090617/ap_on_re_us/us_cats_mutilated)AP – Doug Weinman, left, father of Tyler Hayes Weinman who is accused of killing more than a dozen cats in …

http://d.yimg.com/a/p/ap/20090617/thumb.0c3708255c1e43a8be03b78462b31a9f.cats_mutila ted_flad102.jpg?x=50&y=50&xc=4&yc=1&wc=125&hc=125&q=85&sig=EAwXHwGAvpVfXUN3XxefJg-- (http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/Fla-teen-arrested-cat-killings/ss/events/us/061509tylerweinman)Slideshow:Fla. teen arrested in cat killings (http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/Fla-teen-arrested-cat-killings/ss/events/us/061509tylerweinman)

By SARAH LARIMER, Associated Press Writer Sarah Larimer, Associated Press Writer – Wed Jun 17, 5:42 pm ET
MIAMI – A teenager accused of killing more than a dozen cats in South Florida was released on more than $200,000 bond Wednesday after a judge ruled that he did not pose a danger to himself or the community.
Miami-Dade Circuit Judge John Thornton ordered Tyler Hayes Weinman, 18, released after a brief hearing Wednesday morning. Weinman, who appeared in court in a red, jail-issued uniform, will wear an electronic monitoring bracelet while he awaits his trial and will be allowed to attend counseling sessions that were recommended by a doctor after a psychiatric evaluation.
"He is competent to proceed and does not, at this time, appear to be at risk of harming himself or others," Thornton said.
Weinman was released at 12:13 p.m. Wednesday, Miami-Dade County Corrections Department spokeswoman Janelle Hall said, and put under house arrest.
Weinman has been charged with 19 counts each of animal cruelty and improperly disposing of an animal body. He also faces four counts of burglary related to the cat deaths. His bond, which was set at $249,500, was posted Tuesday.
"He's just a good kid who's a victim of circumstances," said his attorney, Michael Walsh. "He did not do this crime."
If convicted, Weinman could face a maximum sentence of 158 years in prison.
Weinman is accused of the gruesome cat killings that terrorized residents of two south Miami-Dade County neighborhoods for about a month. Police believe he is behind the deaths of more than a dozen animals, whose mutilated bodies were discovered by their owners or other residents. Police say they investigated the deaths of about 30 cats, but they say some were likely killed by dogs.
"He's an innocent man," Walsh said. "There's no evidence. Obviously, there's been a public outcry to solve this crime and you know that that motivates police in certain directions. And now this young man has to sit there and bear the allegations. When the case starts to unfold, you'll see."
Weinman, who was arrested over the weekend, is scheduled to be arraigned July 6. His father and stepmother attended Wednesday's hearing. Outside the courthouse, his father told reporters that he was confident his son wasn't involved in the deaths.
"I'm absolutely sure that he is innocent," Doug Weinman said. "Because I've raised a son for 18 years and I know who he is."
Alicia Glatzer, whose cat, Sarah, was found killed and mutilated outside her family's Palmetto Bay home in early May, said she was shocked by Weinman's release.
"It's disturbing that they would let him out knowing that he has killed so many cats," Glatzer said. "Although he says he's innocent and his attorney says he's innocent, there hasn't been any cat killings since he's been in jail. It's a concern of mine that he's let out, that's he's back on the street."
Police said they arrested Weinman after tracking the teenager for some time. He was taken to the police station for an interview on his prom night and his house was placed under surveillance. But on Wednesday, Walsh was critical of the investigation, saying that his client's arrest was based on circumstantial evidence.
"He doesn't know who did it," Walsh said. "He has no idea. Next thing he knows, he's in the back of a police car being arrested for this crime."

[Amusedtdth]

Well gee, did the killing stop?

[Nut44x4]

THIS MAKES ME SICKKKK!!!
Sun-Sentinel (Fort Lauderdale, Florida)
June 18, 2009 Thursday

Cat-killing suspect freed

The teen accused of killing and mutilating 19 cats in South Miami-Dade poses no danger and can be released on bond, a Miami-Dade judge ruled Wednesday. Tyler Weinman, 18, was released from jail to await trial.

The teen had posted $249,500 bond but was being held until the results of the court-ordered psychiatric evaluation were revealed.

"The psychiatric evaluation indicates he ... does not appear at risk of harming himself or others," Miami-Dade Circuit Judge John Thornton said Wednesday.
http://www6.lexisnexis.com/publisher/EndUser?Action=UserDisplayFullDocument&orgId=574&topicId=100020825&docId=l:991825269&start=2

WHAT ABOUT THE CATS!!!!!!!!!!!

[sunstar]

BTW, I'd like to suggest, if this goes to trial the thread be moved to our Trial forum and placed in it's own forum.

I think it at least belongs in Crimes in the News. :girl_sad:

[sunstar]

THIS MAKES ME SICKKKK!!!
Sun-Sentinel (Fort Lauderdale, Florida)
June 18, 2009 Thursday

Cat-killing suspect freed

The teen accused of killing and mutilating 19 cats in South Miami-Dade poses no danger and can be released on bond, a Miami-Dade judge ruled Wednesday. Tyler Weinman, 18, was released from jail to await trial.

The teen had posted $249,500 bond but was being held until the results of the court-ordered psychiatric evaluation were revealed.

"The psychiatric evaluation indicates he ... does not appear at risk of harming himself or others," Miami-Dade Circuit Judge John Thornton said Wednesday.
http://www6.lexisnexis.com/publisher/EndUser?Action=UserDisplayFullDocument&orgId=574&topicId=100020825&docId=l:991825269&start=2

WHAT ABOUT THE CATS!!!!!!!!!!!
I completely agree but sadly it seems they were referring to humans only. :girl_sad: I thought psychiatric studies have already shown though that animal torture often precedes killing humans??? :waitasec:

[awakening2lite]

I think it at least belongs in Crimes in the News. :girl_sad:

Oh, I agree. But if it goes to trial (assuming he does not plead guilty), I'd like to see it have it's own forum in the Trials forum because Dade county does allow cameras in the courtroom. It would give us an opportunity to follow the case over the many months it will take to finally be brought to trial.

Please, do not misunderstand me. I am not trying to lessen it's importance. To the contrary, I see it as a very important, and possibly ground breaking case in animal rights!

[Louise]

excerpt from article..

"The clean-cut Weinman flashed a smug smile for his mug shot, taken when he was booked in jail Sunday.

Weinman attorney, David Macey, said his client is innocent. Weinman is expected to be arraigned on Monday. His bail has been set at $154,500."

http://www.miamiherald.com/459/story/1096711.html

I am glad they caught him but I would like to smack that smile right off his face. I truly hope he gets the punishment he deserves..

[SavannahStar]

THIS MAKES ME SICKKKK!!!
Sun-Sentinel (Fort Lauderdale, Florida)
June 18, 2009 Thursday

Cat-killing suspect freed

The teen accused of killing and mutilating 19 cats in South Miami-Dade poses no danger and can be released on bond, a Miami-Dade judge ruled Wednesday. Tyler Weinman, 18, was released from jail to await trial.

The teen had posted $249,500 bond but was being held until the results of the court-ordered psychiatric evaluation were revealed.

"The psychiatric evaluation indicates he ... does not appear at risk of harming himself or others," Miami-Dade Circuit Judge John Thornton said Wednesday.
http://www6.lexisnexis.com/publisher/EndUser?Action=UserDisplayFullDocument&orgId=574&topicId=100020825&docId=l:991825269&start=2

WHAT ABOUT THE CATS!!!!!!!!!!!

Yes!!!!!!!!!!! Bears repeating.

WHAT ABOUT THE CATS???????????????????????????

NOTHING freaks me out more than animal abuse. If I said what I would want happen to this monster brat kid I'd be banned!

:madranting94dp:

[Louise]

Excerpt from article..

"The police are looking into whether any people Weinman associates with might have been accomplices in the killings. Weinman's sealed juvenile record includes two prior offenses, Miller said.

He could face a maximum of 158 years in state prison if convicted on all counts, said Terry Shavez, spokeswoman for the state attorney's office.

The mayor of Cutler Bay referred to the string of feline attacks as a "plague in South Miami-Dade."

http://www.cnn.com/2009/CRIME/06/15/florida.cat.killer.arrest/index.html

I hope that he gets that.

THIS MAKES ME SICKKKK!!!
Sun-Sentinel (Fort Lauderdale, Florida)
June 18, 2009 Thursday

Cat-killing suspect freed

The teen accused of killing and mutilating 19 cats in South Miami-Dade poses no danger and can be released on bond, a Miami-Dade judge ruled Wednesday. Tyler Weinman, 18, was released from jail to await trial.

The teen had posted $249,500 bond but was being held until the results of the court-ordered psychiatric evaluation were revealed.

"The psychiatric evaluation indicates he ... does not appear at risk of harming himself or others," Miami-Dade Circuit Judge John Thornton said Wednesday.
http://www6.lexisnexis.com/publisher/EndUser?Action=UserDisplayFullDocument&orgId=574&topicId=100020825&docId=l:991825269&start=2

WHAT ABOUT THE CATS!!!!!!!!!!!

I am disappointed he has been released on bond. They should have kept him locked up.

I completely agree but sadly it seems they were referring to humans only. :girl_sad: I thought psychiatric studies have already shown though that animal torture often precedes killing humans??? :waitasec:

It usually does. They should have never released him. When it comes to the trial, I hope that he goes away for good so he can never hurt another cat or anyone else for that matter.

[sunstar]

Oh, I agree. But if it goes to trial (assuming he does not plead guilty), I'd like to see it have it's own forum in the Trials forum because Dade county does allow cameras in the courtroom. It would give us an opportunity to follow the case over the many months it will take to finally be brought to trial.

Please, do not misunderstand me. I am not trying to lessen it's importance. To the contrary, I see it as a very important, and possibly ground breaking case in animal rights!

Oh I totally agree with you!! :love0081: I was just saying if this case didn't get it's own forum yet, it should be in the "Crimes" section. I also see it as very important for animal rights and even as disguested and sickened as I am with the details, our fur babies deserve a voice on their behalf. MOO

[sunstar]

I hope that he gets that.



I am disappointed he has been released on bond. They should have kept him locked up.



It usually does. They should have never released him. When it comes to the trial, I hope that he goes away for good so he can never hurt another cat or anyone else for that matter.
I am very disappointed too that he's been released on bond, but the problem isn't with the judge, imo, it's the fact that this is a bondable (is that the right word?!) offense and if it weren't for his dad having the money to pay bail he'd still be locked up. I think the judge set it high for a reason but couldn't do anything more. The psychiatric evaluation is totally screwed up, imo. :45024: MOO

[Louise]

I am very disappointed too that he's been released on bond, but the problem isn't with the judge, imo, it's the fact that this is a bondable (is that the right word?!) offense and if it weren't for his dad having the money to pay bail he'd still be locked up. I think the judge set it high for a reason but couldn't do anything more. The psychiatric evaluation is totally screwed up, imo. :45024: MOO

I know the judge isn't responsible but it is a shame that it is a bondable offense. The lawyers should have asked for remand if that is possible. I just see him killing in the future as it seems like a compulsion to him. That is why I think he should have not gotten out. I hope he controls himself and doesn't do this again while out and that when it comes to the trial he goes away for a long time.

[SavannahStar]

I know the judge isn't responsible but it is a shame that it is a bondable offense. The lawyers should have asked for remand if that is possible. I just see him killing in the future as it seems like a compulsion to him. That is why I think he should have not gotten out. I hope he controls himself and doesn't do this again while out and that when it comes to the trial he goes away for a long time.

I wish the laws could be changed!

I also hope he goes away for a long time. What an atrocious crime. Bad enough the poor pets probably suffered immensely, but to think also of the grieving families left in his wake.......:1187603408.CR.Mothe

As a Christian I should not hate anyone, but I'm telling you....he ranks up right up there with Michael Vick in the disgust I feel. :mad:

[Louise]

I wish the laws could be changed!

I also hope he goes away for a long time. What an atrocious crime. Bad enough the poor pets probably suffered immensely, but to think also of the grieving families left in his wake.......:1187603408.CR.Mothe

As a Christian I should not hate anyone, but I'm telling you....he ranks up right up there with Michael Vick in the disgust I feel. :mad:

Yes, I know exactly what you mean.

[rem16]

I know the judge isn't responsible but it is a shame that it is a bondable offense. The lawyers should have asked for remand if that is possible. I just see him killing in the future as it seems like a compulsion to him. That is why I think he should have not gotten out. I hope he controls himself and doesn't do this again while out and that when it comes to the trial he goes away for a long time.

I believe TW will be wearing an ankle bracelet which will prevent him from going outside without the police being notified, so thankfully the cats are safe from him. If he is so innnocent as his father claims, there would still be killings and there are none. What criminal wants someone else to get the glory, if you will for their crimes.

[Louise]

I believe TW will be wearing an ankle bracelet which will prevent him from going outside without the police being notified, so thankfully the cats are safe from him. If he is so innnocent as his father claims, there would still be killings and there are none. What criminal wants someone else to get the glory, if you will for their crimes.

I see, that will help between now and when it comes to trial. I don't think he is innocent. Just the fact that there have been no further cats being killed speaks volumes in my opinion to his guilt. It is terrible that some people just believe blindly what their kids say even when there is evidence to the contrary and don't make them accountable for what they have done. It is one thing to protect your child/children but if there is evidence that they are guilty in whatever crime, they should be made to take responsibility for their actions. It doesn't mean you love them any less nor be any less supportive when they do get punished. No one is above the law.

[SavannahStar]

I see, that will help between now and when it comes to trial. I don't think he is innocent. Just the fact that there have been no further cats being killed speaks volumes in my opinion to his guilt.

I don't think I've even read this entire thread..I avoided it for days.....just wondering, have LE came out and said what specific evidence they have against him?

I am sure they are correct in arresting the right person. Just wondering though.

This crime makes me sick to my stomach.

[Louise]

I don't think I've even read this entire thread..I avoided it for days.....just wondering, have LE came out and said what specific evidence they have against him?

I am sure they are correct in arresting the right person. Just wondering though.

This crime makes me sick to my stomach.
Not yet I think. It is awful that is for sure.

[sunstar]

I know the judge isn't responsible but it is a shame that it is a bondable offense. The lawyers should have asked for remand if that is possible. I just see him killing in the future as it seems like a compulsion to him. That is why I think he should have not gotten out. I hope he controls himself and doesn't do this again while out and that when it comes to the trial he goes away for a long time.

I'm with you, but sadly, only when our animals share the same rights as humans will the law be changed. I wish he could be charged with 19 counts of 1st degree murder because that's what I feel the crimes deserve, but to the law, the victims were just cats, even though I would think of them as my children. :1187603408.CR.Mothe I guess we should be thankful though that laws are getting tougher.

[sunstar]

I believe TW will be wearing an ankle bracelet which will prevent him from going outside without the police being notified, so thankfully the cats are safe from him. If he is so innnocent as his father claims, there would still be killings and there are none. What criminal wants someone else to get the glory, if you will for their crimes.

I also read he is wearing a electronic monitoring device and one article said house arrest. He's also been ordered continuing psychological counseling. MOO

[awakening2lite]

I wish the laws could be changed!

I also hope he goes away for a long time. What an atrocious crime. Bad enough the poor pets probably suffered immensely, but to think also of the grieving families left in his wake.......:1187603408.CR.Mothe

As a Christian I should not hate anyone, but I'm telling you....he ranks up right up there with Michael Vick in the disgust I feel. :mad:


And speaking of Michael Vick, if he were truly rehabilitated and remorseful for his past, I would expect him to have made a statement on this case...IMO

[SavannahStar]

And speaking of Michael Vick, if he were truly rehabilitated and remorseful for his past, I would expect him to have made a statement on this case...IMO

I believe an animal abuser cannot be rehabilitated, no more than a pedophile can. They may sometimes learn to avoid doing the deed, but their inner make-up does not change, and they always have the capability (if not the desire) of doing the same acts as long as they live.

[rem16]

Theodore Robert Cowell was a strange child. Even at the age of three, he had a tendency to place knives around his aunt while she was sleeping. When she would awake, the toddler would laugh gleefully.

And as he grew older, he reportedly would abuse the family dog and torture neighborhood cats by swinging them around by their tails. This is something he saw his grandfather do.

And he also had a habit of voyeurism, peeping into the windows of sleeping women in his neighborhood. He was arrested twice as a juvenile but those records were expunged.

But those were secrets he kept to himself. On the surface, he was a charming child who grew into a handsome young man with a captivating smile and a smooth personality. If anything, he was known for having a bad temper.

He had girlfriends. An above-average intelligence. And was pursuing a law degree.

It wasn’t until after he changed his name to Ted Bundy and confessed to killing more than 30 women that the world learned of the monster inside.

http://www.miamibeach411.com/news/index.php?/news/comments/tyler-weinman/

Interesting article..

[LiveLaughLuv]

snipped from the article provided.
Theodore Robert Cowell was a strange child. Even at the age of three, he had a tendency to place knives around his aunt while she was sleeping. When she would awake, the toddler would laugh gleefully.

And as he grew older, he reportedly would abuse the family dog and torture neighborhood cats by swinging them around by their tails. This is something he saw his grandfather do.And he also had a habit of voyeurism, peeping into the windows of sleeping women in his neighborhood. He was arrested twice as a juvenile but those records were expunged.

But those were secrets he kept to himself. On the surface, he was a charming child who grew into a handsome young man with a captivating smile and a smooth personality. If anything, he was known for having a bad temper.

He had girlfriends. An above-average intelligence. And was pursuing a law degree.

It wasn’t until after he changed his name to Ted Bundy and confessed to killing more than 30 women that the world learned of the monster inside.

And even then, many people close to him, including former girlfriends, were shocked by the revelation.

So it is not surprising that many people are comparing the accused cat killer in Miami to be a Ted Bundy in the making.



Bundy, DeSalvo, Berkowitz and Dahmer all started out mutilating and killing animals. This is something they watched their father or grandfather do?

Yep, serial killer in the making, how can these type personalities be rehabilitated? I do not believe there is any rehab for them..:shrug1:

[sunstar]

snipped from the article provided.



Bundy, DeSalvo, Berkowitz and Dahmer all started out mutilating and killing animals. This is something they watched their father or grandfather do?

Yep, serial killer in the making, how can these type personalities be rehabilitated? I do not believe there is any rehab for them..:shrug1:
Some are just born with sick, depraved minds, and I don't believe they can be changed. I agree, this would escalate into serial killing of humans. The atrocities against 19 innocent cant be explained as an "accident" or a one-time moment of insanity. The person who did this enjoys killing and mutilation, and the reaction the pet owners would have finding their beloved pets in that state. Only the Biblical principle of "an eye for an eye" would be the appropriate punishment for such an evil person in my opinion. Or maybe putting the killer alive & conscious inside the cage of one of the victims' big cousins would work. :wink: MOO

[awakening2lite]

Some are just born with sick, depraved minds, and I don't believe they can be changed. I agree, this would escalate into serial killing of humans. The atrocities against 19 innocent cant be explained as an "accident" or a one-time moment of insanity. The person who did this enjoys killing and mutilation, and the reaction the pet owners would have finding their beloved pets in that state. Only the Biblical principle of "an eye for an eye" would be the appropriate punishment for such an evil person in my opinion. Or maybe putting the killer alive & conscious inside the cage of one of the victims' big cousins would work. :wink: MOO

Hey SunStar! :happy0207:

You're right, some of the monsters are born monsters, but some are human beings who are made into monsters.

I can't say with absolute certainty that this man will become a serial killer of people. I do feel safe in saying, if he is guilty of killing and torturing all the cats, he is well down the path that many serial killers have taken. Either way, if he is guilty, he is a serial animal abuser, a horror in, and of, itself.

The amount of the bond set is the highest I can recall hearing about. I hope this case will be taken to trial so he will receive the biggest sentence when found guilty, and also because, it is my hope, the judge will allow cameras in the courtroom. This one case could set a new and higher standard for animal rights in Florida, and hopefully, in other states.

Who will speak for the helpless if we do not?

I went back and read the article which reported the first cat and what that old Calico had to endure. I wish I had not made myself do that. I do have dreams of animals who are lost and this might start all that up again. It was so heartbreaking to know what she must have gone through and heartbreaking to know it was at the hands of a human being, or maybe I should say, at the hands of a monster in a human beings skin.

If we could only stop the cruelty to animals in the world. If we could only stop the pain we put them through to satisfy our needs. The world would become a more compassionate place for all human beings and all creatures. We could be in touch with our true selves and our true role as the planets guardians.

[Jasmine04]

Not to in any way say this guy wasn't totally to blame, but- if you have a cat you love and care for why let him/her roam free for hours at a time. I have two only one goes outside and I am always outside with her- if I get a call and have to go into the house I scoop her up then take her back out later. Maybe things are different in a warmer climate like south Florida, I don't know.
Many of these cats sound to have been strays that people were feeding.
At least the cops did something. I'm afraid where I live depending on the individual cop they wouldn't have. Prayers for these innocent victims and those who loved them.

[sunstar]

Not to in any way say this guy wasn't totally to blame, but- if you have a cat you love and care for why let him/her roam free for hours at a time. I have two only one goes outside and I am always outside with her- if I get a call and have to go into the house I scoop her up then take her back out later. Maybe things are different in a warmer climate like south Florida, I don't know.
Many of these cats sound to have been strays that people were feeding.
At least the cops did something. I'm afraid where I live depending on the individual cop they wouldn't have. Prayers for these innocent victims and those who loved them.

I have three cats who live inside, and never have been out. But some of my neighbors have cats they let in and out and we even have dishes of dry food outside our patio door for them since sometimes there are strays also. It's a safe neighborhood as probably were the ones in Miami-Dade where these cats were killed. I'm sure the owners never dreamed something as horrible as this would happen. Yes, I am very glad that LE is taking this seriously, as well as the judge who set the high bond and since the accused was able to post it, also included the electronic monitoring. MOO

[sunstar]

a2l ~ I couldn't agree more! :love0081:

[SavannahStar]

a2l ~ I couldn't agree more! :love0081:

Me too. That was an excellent post.

[Louise]

Not to in any way say this guy wasn't totally to blame, but- if you have a cat you love and care for why let him/her roam free for hours at a time. I have two only one goes outside and I am always outside with her- if I get a call and have to go into the house I scoop her up then take her back out later. Maybe things are different in a warmer climate like south Florida, I don't know.
Many of these cats sound to have been strays that people were feeding.
At least the cops did something. I'm afraid where I live depending on the individual cop they wouldn't have. Prayers for these innocent victims and those who loved them.

Where I come from - Australia, it is very rare to have indoor cats because it is a warm climate. Have had numerous cats when I was growing up and after leaving home and they were all outdoor cats apart from when it came to feeding time. Now that we are in Canada the 2 cats we have are indoor ones mainly because of the winters we get here but if we moved back to Australia and got another cat, it would be an outside one too mainly. It doesn't mean you love them any less, it is just the way things are. It is a shame that people may have to control their cats more and not let them out as much.

[awakening2lite]

Court Case No.: F09019761
State Case No.: 132009CF0197610001XX
Name: WEINMAN, TYLER HAYES
Date of Birth: 01/14/1991
Date Filed: 06/15/2009
Date Closed:
Warrant Type:
Hearing Date: 06/24/2009
Hearing Time: 1400
Hearing Type: R
Court Room: REGJB - JUSTICE BUILDING, ROOM No.: 4-3
Address: 1351 N.W. 12 ST
Next Case:
Previous Case:
Judge: THORNTON, JOHN W
Defense Attorney:
Bfile Section: F015
File Location: OPER. CODE
Box Number:
Seq No.: Charge:
Charge Type:
Disposition:
1 ANIMAL/CRUELTY/INTNT FELONY
2 ANIMAL/CRUELTY/INTNT FELONY
3 ANIMAL/CRUELTY/INTNT FELONY
4 ANIMAL/CRUELTY/INTNT FELONY
5 ANIMAL/CRUELTY/INTNT FELONY
6 ANIMAL/CRUELTY/INTNT FELONY
7 ANIMAL/CRUELTY/INTNT FELONY
8 ANIMAL/CRUELTY/INTNT FELONY
9 ANIMAL/CRUELTY/INTNT FELONY
10 ANIMAL/CRUELTY/INTNT FELONY
11 ANIMAL/CRUELTY/INTNT FELONY
12 ANIMAL/CRUELTY/INTNT FELONY
13 ANIMAL/CRUELTY/INTNT FELONY
14 ANIMAL/CRUELTY/INTNT FELONY
15 ANIMAL/CRUELTY/INTNT FELONY
16 ANIMAL/CRUELTY/INTNT FELONY
17 ANIMAL/CRUELTY/INTNT FELONY
18 ANIMAL/CRUELTY/INTNT FELONY
19 ANIMAL/CRUELTY/INTNT FELONY
20 BURGLARY/UNOCC/DWELL FELONY
21 BURGLARY/UNOCC/DWELL FELONY
22 BURGLARY/UNOCC/DWELL FELONY
23 BURGLARY/UNOCC/DWELL FELONY
24 ANIMAL/DISPOSAL/VIOL MISDEMEANOR
25 ANIMAL/DISPOSAL/VIOL MISDEMEANOR
26 ANIMAL/DISPOSAL/VIOL MISDEMEANOR
27 ANIMAL/DISPOSAL/VIOL MISDEMEANOR
28 ANIMAL/DISPOSAL/VIOL MISDEMEANOR
29 ANIMAL/DISPOSAL/VIOL MISDEMEANOR
30 ANIMAL/DISPOSAL/VIOL MISDEMEANOR
31 ANIMAL/DISPOSAL/VIOL MISDEMEANOR
32 ANIMAL/DISPOSAL/VIOL MISDEMEANOR
33 ANIMAL/DISPOSAL/VIOL MISDEMEANOR
34 ANIMAL/DISPOSAL/VIOL MISDEMEANOR
35 ANIMAL/DISPOSAL/VIOL MISDEMEANOR
36 ANIMAL/DISPOSAL/VIOL MISDEMEANOR
37 ANIMAL/DISPOSAL/VIOL MISDEMEANOR
38 ANIMAL/DISPOSAL/VIOL MISDEMEANOR
39 ANIMAL/DISPOSAL/VIOL MISDEMEANOR
40 ANIMAL/DISPOSAL/VIOL MISDEMEANOR
41 ANIMAL/DISPOSAL/VIOL MISDEMEANOR
42 ANIMAL/DISPOSAL/VIOL MISDEMEANOR


http://www2.miami-dadeclerk.com/cjis/CasePrinter.aspx?case=F09019761

[awakening2lite]

Court Case No.: B09032901
State Case No.: 132009MM0329010001XX
Name: WEINMAN, TYLER HAYES
Date of Birth: 01/14/1991
Date Filed: 05/29/2009
Date Closed:
Warrant Type: Hearing Date: 06/30/2009
Hearing Time: 915
Hearing Type: A
Court Room: REGJB - JUSTICE BUILDING, ROOM No.: 1-2
Address: 1351 N.W. 12 ST
Next Case:
Previous Case:
Judge: SEFF, FLORA E
Defense Attorney:
Bfile Section: B263
File Location: FILE ROOM
Box Number:
ALT Section: B232
ALT/Backup Judge: SCHWARTZ, SHELDON R
Seq No.:
Charge:
Charge Type:
Disposition: 1 CANNABIS/POSN/0-20 MISDEMEANOR

http://www2.miami-dadeclerk.com/cjis/CasePrinter.aspx?case=B09032901

[SavannahStar]

Possession of pot too? I don't recall reading about that one......maybe I did and forgot.

Punk!!!!!

[awakening2lite]

Possession of pot too? I don't recall reading about that one......maybe I did and forgot.

Punk!!!!!

The possession arrest was on 5/29 and the cruelty and other charges was 6/15, that might explain it not being in the news.

Did you note that tomorrow, the 24th at 2:00pm is the first hearing on the cruelty and related charges?

The possession charge hearing is set for 6/30.

I hope someone who has live streaming links (if any) will post them.

[sunstar]

The possession arrest was on 5/29 and the cruelty and other charges was 6/15, that might explain it not being in the news.

Did you note that tomorrow, the 24th at 2:00pm is the first hearing on the cruelty and related charges?

The possession charge hearing is set for 6/30.

I hope someone who has live streaming links (if any) will post them.

Until reading the charges you posted, I hadn't realized there was anything going on until the arraignment on July 6, so thanks for the information and about the hearing tomorrow. What will it be about?

[awakening2lite]

Until reading the charges you posted, I hadn't realized there was anything going on until the arraignment on July 6, so thanks for the information and about the hearing tomorrow. What will it be about?

I suspect the hearing tomorrow will be a pre-trial hearing for all the cruelty and related charges.

[sunstar]

I suspect the hearing tomorrow will be a pre-trial hearing for all the cruelty and related charges.

Thanks so much! I somehow thought pre-trial hearings would be after the arraignment, but I do see one is scheduled so I guess we'll find out what it's about afterwards.



:1222423: Justice for Miss Kitty and all the victims

[awakening2lite]

Goodie, Goodie! Just what I posted earlier in this thread and we all discussed:


Animal dissections spark debate after Miami-Dade cat killings

Julie Knipe Brown |The Miami Herald (http://www.miamiherald.com/486/story/1107944.html)6:14 AM EDT, June 22, 2009
EXCERPT~http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/local/breakingnews/sfl-animal-dissections-bn092209,0,1669635.story


Nevertheless, critics, including educators and animal rights activists, say dissecting animals, which goes back to the 1400s, is archaic. They say more humane, cost-effective and high-tech alternatives are just as educational.

The debate has been rekindled with the June 13 arrest of a former Miami (http://www.sun-sentinel.com/topic/us/florida/miami-dade-county/miami-%28miami-dade-florida%29-PLGEO100100408120000.topic) Palmetto High student accused of slaughtering 19 cats across South Miami (http://www.sun-sentinel.com/topic/us/florida/miami-dade-county/south-miami-PLGEO100100408230000.topic)-Dade. Tyler Weinman, 18, who faces multiple counts of animal cruelty, dissected cats last year as part of his anatomy class.

While there is no evidence that dissecting cats -- or any animal -- will lead a student to violence, the crime has raised questions about the necessity of asking students to pick apart specimens that resemble many of their family pets.

For more than two decades, the Miami-Dade School District has offered advanced classes for students at about 40 high schools that have hands-on anatomy instruction involving dead cats and other mammals. The Palm Beach School District also uses animals, as well as some private schools and universities.

Animal activists, such as PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals), argue that non-animal learning methods, such as clay modeling and plasticized specimens, are better learning tools.

In the wake of the Weinman case, PETA has called upon Miami Palmetto High to discontinue animal dissections. And last week, the organization launched a new online resource center for educators that includes video demonstrations of virtual dissection technology.

''There is no research that shows using real cats is better than non-animal learning methods,'' said Justin Goodman, a PETA researcher.

[sunstar]

Thanks so much, a2l! I had Googled for updates today but didn't find that article. I am very pleased that this issue is being addressed, even though it may not have had any bearing on the killings, it's still unnecessary. MOO

[awakening2lite]

Thanks so much, a2l! I had Googled for updates today but didn't find that article. I am very pleased that this issue is being addressed, even though it may not have had any bearing on the killings, it's still unnecessary. MOO


It did mention Wienman dissected cats in his class last year and because of the Weinman case, PETA called upon Miami Palmetto High to discontinue animal dissections. They also organized and launched a new online resource center for educators that includes video demonstrations of virtual dissection technology.

I think that is a very important! It means this case will continue to evoke headlines. The world is watching!

We will have a trial date soon and perhaps Pauli will give this it's own forum. So many members have pets, it really hits home.

[awakening2lite]

EXCERPT~http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/local/breakingnews/sfl-cat-killings-bn062409,0,2342301.story

MIAMI - A Miami (http://www.sun-sentinel.com/topic/us/florida/miami-dade-county/miami-%28miami-dade-florida%29-PLGEO100100408120000.topic)-Dade judge is scheduled hear more arguments on the release of a sealed arrest affidavit for a teenager accused of killing more than a dozen cats.

A hearing on the release of 18-year-old Tyler Hayes Weinman's sealed affidavit will continue this afternoon. The Miami Herald and WFOR-Ch. 4 have sued for the document's release.

[awakening2lite]

The Tale Of So. Fla.'s Cat Killings (http://cbs4.com/slideshows/cat.mutilated.cat.20.1051617.html#)

Several victims shared photographs of their beloved pets to CBS4. Many of the cats had been with their families for more than a decade.

http://cbs4.com/slideshows/cat.mutilated.cat.20.1051617.html

[awakening2lite]

Jun 24, 2009 8:30 am US/Eastern
Debate Over Arrest Affidavit In Cat Killings

Motion To Unseal The Affidavit Filed CBS4 & Miami Herald


EXCERPT~

Prosecutors have said that one of the major reasons they want the record kept under seal for at least another three weeks is that other suspects in the cat killings are named in the documents. During a hearing last Friday, Judge John Thornton informed the State Attorney that they'd better come up with more compelling witnesses and reason for keeping this arrest document secret any longer. If the State cannot produce such argument or evidence, Judge Thornton indicated from the bench that he'll release some form of the arrest affidavit, perhaps with parts blacked out.

http://cbs4.com/local/tyler.weinman.cat.2.1057507.html

[awakening2lite]

Judge releases accused cat killer from jail

http://cbs4.com/video/?id=78165@wfor.dayport.com

[SavannahStar]

The Tale Of So. Fla.'s Cat Killings (http://cbs4.com/slideshows/cat.mutilated.cat.20.1051617.html#)

Several victims shared photographs of their beloved pets to CBS4. Many of the cats had been with their families for more than a decade.

http://cbs4.com/slideshows/cat.mutilated.cat.20.1051617.html

I sure can't look at that........no way....:sad0119:

Thank you for keeping us up to date on this case, a2l.

[awakening2lite]

I sure can't look at that........no way....:sad0119:

Thank you for keeping us up to date on this case, a2l.


I should have made it clear there are no autopsy images only images of their household pets as they remember them.

[Tam5115]

This is the first time I got the nerve up to even open this thread! I have no words to express how I feel about it. I'm a cat lover and I can't say what I want done to this guy, or I'd be banned.

I'm going to go hug my three kitties now.

[SavannahStar]

I should have made it clear there are no autopsy images only images of their household pets as they remember them.


Oh a2l, I assumed that.....I STILL couldn't go there. That could be even worse.

[SavannahStar]

This is the first time I got the nerve up to even open this thread! I have no words to express how I feel about it. I'm a cat lover and I can't say what I want done to this guy, or I'd be banned.

I'm going to go hug my three kitties now.

I know how you feel. This thread was up for some time before I came on it. Just couldn't bear it. I'm a dog person (have two that I adore), but abuse of ANY animal sickens me.

[awakening2lite]

Should judge unseal cat killing affidavit?

[/URL]0
June 24, 2009 - 4:17 PM


The Associated Press

EXCERPT~


[url]http://www.cbs12.com/news/cat-4719024-weinman-miami.html (http://www.cbs12.com/news/cat-4719024-weinman-miami.html#slComments)

Attorneys and reporters gathered in Miami-Dade Circuit Judge John Thornton's courtroom for an evidentiary hearing Wednesday afternoon. The Miami Herald and a CBS affiliate have sued for the release of 18-year-old Tyler Hayes Weinman's sealed arrest affidavit.

[awakening2lite]

From the Dade clerk:

ARRAIGNMENT HEARING SCHEDULED FOR 07/06/2009 AT 09:00

[sunstar]

It did mention Wienman dissected cats in his class last year and because of the Weinman case, PETA called upon Miami Palmetto High to discontinue animal dissections. They also organized and launched a new online resource center for educators that includes video demonstrations of virtual dissection technology.

I think that is a very important! It means this case will continue to evoke headlines. The world is watching!

We will have a trial date soon and perhaps Pauli will give this it's own forum. So many members have pets, it really hits home.

I did see that part about him actually dissecting them in his science class. :mad: *IF* he's guilty, it's possible that he could've developed some morbid fascination with death and killing, and then mutilating cats after the class or harbored these sadistic ideas before the classroom dissection. Whatever, only someone with a very evil, sick mind would do such horrendous acts. Again, I'm very happy that PETA is stepping in since I believe this "hands on" instruction is totally unnecessary especially in high school. MOO

[sunstar]

The Tale Of So. Fla.'s Cat Killings (http://cbs4.com/slideshows/cat.mutilated.cat.20.1051617.html#)

Several victims shared photographs of their beloved pets to CBS4. Many of the cats had been with their families for more than a decade.

http://cbs4.com/slideshows/cat.mutilated.cat.20.1051617.html

I'm glad these people have agreed to share their photos. It only further illustrates that pets are family members and their loss can be as heartbreaking as losing a human child. :1222423:

[awakening2lite]

Affidavit in cat mutilation case will be released


The Associated Press
Published: June 24, 2009


http://www2.tbo.com/exposure/ar/125/170/2009/06/14/3872_061409cats.jpg Tyler Weinman


MIAMI - The sealed arrest affidavit of a teenager accused of killing more than a dozen cats in south Miami-Dade County will be released early next month, a judge ordered today.


After an evidentiary hearing, Miami-Dade Circuit Judge John Thornton ordered that Tyler Hayes Weinman's sealed affidavit be released July 6, the same day the teen is scheduled to be arraigned on charges related to the gruesome crimes. The affidavit, which details evidence against Weinman, will not be redacted, except for the addresses of law enforcement officers.

"I don't know that one side won and one side lost," said attorney Scott Ponce, who represented The Miami Herald and a CBS affiliate in their efforts to get the affidavit released. "I think that with the assistance of the judge, (we) found something that accommodates both sides — the state's desire to not impede or harm their investigation, and the public and press' right to get this as fast as they can in an unredacted form."


Weinman, 18, has been charged with more than 19 counts each of animal cruelty and improperly disposing of an animal body. He also faces four counts of burglary related to the cat deaths.


Thornton heard from witnesses before issuing his ruling. Both Assistant State Attorney Michael Von Zamft and Ponce were present for the proceedings, which lasted more than two hours. Weinman did not attend Wednesday's hearing.


Authorities sealed the affidavit after Weinman's arrest earlier this month, saying law enforcement officers were still investigating the case. The affidavit will be released on July 6, regardless of whether the arraignment is rescheduled.


"We hope to complete the rest of the investigation by July 6, whether there are additional arrests by then or not," Von Zamft said.


Weinman, who has been released on bond, was arrested this month in connection to a string of cat killings that shocked two South Florida communities. Police believe he is behind the deaths of more than a dozen cats, whose mutilated bodies were often discovered by their horrified owners or other disturbed residents in the Palmetto Bay and Cutler Bay neighborhoods this May and June.


Von Zamft argued that some witnesses were concerned about the safety of children in their neighborhoods or retaliatory measures that might be taken if the affidavit was released. After the hearing, he also said officials had received threats against Weinman and some disturbances had cropped up during the investigation.


"We know that there were problems with some vigilantes that started following some police officers, thinking that they were the cat people," Von Zamft said. "Law enforcement were in danger. They had to stop them and do some things with them, because they were in potential danger."


Von Zamft would not say whether any "vigilantes" were arrested, and a Miami-Dade Police Department spokesman declined to comment on threats against Weinman.


"That's not something that we can discuss because this is an ongoing investigation," Miami-Dade Police Detective Roy Rutland said.


http://www2.tbo.com/content/2009/jun/24/affidavit-cat-mutilation-case-will-be-released/news-breaking/

[sunstar]

Thanks for posting the update, a2l! I was hoping the judge would issue a ruling today. :smile:

[awakening2lite]

http://cbs4.com/video/?id=78551@wfor.dayport.com

Affidavit to be released (video report)

[awakening2lite]

Thanks for posting the update, a2l! I was hoping the judge would issue a ruling today. :smile:


yw, I'm happy, too, things are starting to move along quite nicely!

July 6, Affidavit release
July 6, Arraignment

:basic45:

[sunstar]

yw, I'm happy, too, things are starting to move along quite nicely!

July 6, Affidavit release
July 6, Arraignment

:basic45:

Yes ~ then hopefully a speedy trial and a guilty on all counts verdict. MOO only, of course. :wink: Can any of the families file a civil lawsuit?

[awakening2lite]

Yes ~ then hopefully a speedy trial and a guilty on all counts verdict. MOO only, of course. :wink: Can any of the families file a civil lawsuit?


Hmmmm, civil suites, that's interesting. When I lived in Florida the only value the courts placed on pets was the replacement cost. No other value. This is another thing that needs to be changed!:mad:

[sunstar]

Hmmmm, civil suites, that's interesting. When I lived in Florida the only value the courts placed on pets was the replacement cost. No other value. This is another thing that needs to be changed!:mad:

With so many physicians prescribing companion animals for patients, especially the elderly, I was wondering if anything may have changed as to the "value" of a pet and if the owners could sue for loss of companionship. Yes, I agree, it's definitely another thing that needs to be addressed! :wink:

[awakening2lite]

Accomplices sought in South Miami-Dade cat killings



6.25.09

Ten days after arresting a South Miami-Dade teen, law officers are still investigating whether cat-killings suspect Tyler Weinman had accomplices.

''We have not confirmed he acted alone,'' prosecutor Michael Von Zamft said Wednesday during a hearing on whether to unseal Weinman's arrest affidavit.


Prosecutors agreed to release the document, which is under seal, during Weinman's July 6 arraignment before Miami-Dade Circuit Judge John Thornton.



The Miami Herald and CBS had asked the judge to unseal the affidavit immediately, arguing the document is a public record. But Thornton on Wednesday signaled he was unlikely to allow its immediate release, spurring the July 6 agreement.


Prosecutors said the document's release would harm efforts to investigate other potential suspects. The probe should be complete by July 6.


The affidavit details the evidence used to arrest Weinman on June 14.


Weinman, 18, is charged with killing 19 cats across South Miami-Dade.
Von Zamft also said that a separate investigation was opened Wednesday into threats against Weinman. He did not detail the nature of the alleged threats.



http://www.miamiherald.com/news/miami-dade/story/1112789.html

[awakening2lite]

With so many physicians prescribing companion animals for patients, especially the elderly, I was wondering if anything may have changed as to the "value" of a pet and if the owners could sue for loss of companionship. Yes, I agree, it's definitely another thing that needs to be addressed! :wink:

Looking a little closer:

EXCERPT~http://www.animallaw.info/articles/ovuspetdamages.htm

In determining the appropriate amount for a punitive damage award, the jury should consider: (1) the degree of malice involved;

(2) the nature of the interest invaded;

(3) the amount needed to deter such conduct;

(4) the cost of bringing the suit; and

(5) the wealth of the defendant.
Each jurisdiction may have its own requirements that must be satisfied.

EXCERPT~

In addition to the Hawaiian (http://www.animallaw.info/cases/caushi632p2d1066.htm) case, Florida (http://www.animallaw.info/cases/causfl163so2d267.htm), Kentucky (http://www.animallaw.info/cases/causky44sw3d806.htm), Idaho (http://www.animallaw.info/cases/causid695p2d1276.htm), Louisiana and Texas (http://www.animallaw.info/cases/caustx886sw2d368.htm) have allowed recovery for mental anguish in animal cases. Many of these cases are without policy discussion and without criteria for determining when recovery is appropriate or what level of damages is appropriate. The mere allowing of any recovery for mental distress is so new that there has not been much attention given to the criteria that might be used in judging the appropriate amount of damages in a given situation. As the jury instruction reprinted in note suggests, it is the common experience of the jury that will ultimately set the appropriate level of compensation.

There are two different types of mental distress at issue. The first is the immediate and intense emotional reaction to seeing an injury occur; the immediate shock often evolves into a second level of mental distress including grief, distress at the loss, and disruption of normal life patterns. While these are private responses of the individual animal owner, many objective factors exist that the jury can look to as a broad check on the claims of the plaintiff. How long had the animal been a pet, how close or important was the pet to the owner? Did the injury or death occur in such a manner as to be particularly difficult to cope with? Was medical help sought? Did the owner of the animal have to change his or her pattern of living? The jury ultimately must sort through the facts and claims by weighing them against their own experience of what happens to people when something that they have formed emotional bonds with is injured or killed.

[Isabella]

When I first heard about this monster I couldn't bring myself
to post it but I sent Faith a message about it, I was in shock,
I still am. To think anyone could do this to helpless animals
is beyond comprehension. You all do such a great job updating this
even tho it is heartbreking to even think about.

We have something like this going on where I live, maybe a sick
copy cat of some kind, who knows, read the article if you
want but a warning it is very sad and hard to read the details.

http://www.kjrh.com/news/local/story/Pets-killed-in-East-Tulsa/-4qxFq-qYEemk1o0h6YoLw.cspx

[SavannahStar]

When I first heard about this monster I couldn't bring myself
to post it but I sent Faith a message about it, I was in shock,
I still am. To think anyone could do this to helpless animals
is beyond comprehension. You all do such a great job updating this
even tho it is heartbreking to even think about.

We have something like this going on where I live, maybe a sick
copy cat of some kind, who knows, read the article if you
want but a warning it is very sad and hard to read the details.

http://www.kjrh.com/news/local/story/Pets-killed-in-East-Tulsa/-4qxFq-qYEemk1o0h6YoLw.cspx

Thank you so much for the warning, Isabella. I appreciate that.

[Isabella]

Thank you so much for the warning, Isabella. I appreciate that.
YW Savannah, it's just so hard to realize these stories are true
and really happen.

My heart breaks for all pet owners everywhere that
this has happened to.

[awakening2lite]

Miami-Dade County Clerk:

Court Case No.: F-09-019761 (case relating to the animal cruelty)

Seq. No. 116
Date 06/26/2009
Docket MOTION FOR RETURN OF PROPERTY FILED 00/00/0000 SET FOR 07/06/2009 AT 09:00

[sunstar]

Looking a little closer:

EXCERPT~http://www.animallaw.info/articles/ovuspetdamages.htm

In determining the appropriate amount for a punitive damage award, the jury should consider: (1) the degree of malice involved;

(2) the nature of the interest invaded;

(3) the amount needed to deter such conduct;

(4) the cost of bringing the suit; and

(5) the wealth of the defendant.
Each jurisdiction may have its own requirements that must be satisfied.

EXCERPT~

(snipped for space)

Thanks so much for finding this! I would definitely think #1 is appropriate here. I'm not sure what #2 means?

[sunstar]

When I first heard about this monster I couldn't bring myself
to post it but I sent Faith a message about it, I was in shock,
I still am. To think anyone could do this to helpless animals
is beyond comprehension. You all do such a great job updating this
even tho it is heartbreking to even think about.

We have something like this going on where I live, maybe a sick
copy cat of some kind, who knows, read the article if you
want but a warning it is very sad and hard to read the details.

http://www.kjrh.com/news/local/story/Pets-killed-in-East-Tulsa/-4qxFq-qYEemk1o0h6YoLw.cspx

Thanks Isabella, but what you posted is enough for me right now. :1187603408.CR.Mothe

[emmeblu]

http://a.abcnews.com/images/US/abc_tyler_kitty_090614_mn.jpg
Tyler Weinman, 18, was arrested by the Miami-Dade Police Department in connection with a series of cat killings and mutilations in his Miami-area community. Miss Kitty, inset, was among the nearly three dozen cats that were killed.
(AP Photo/Courtesy Thomas and Mary Lou Shad)

(Link courtesy of SunStar)


Even those who do evil can appear ordinary. IMO

As I am looking at this kids picture, I am thinking the exact same thing.
Evil does not always wear an evil look. So glad this guy was caught. Serious sign when a person is abusing / killing animals.

Those poor cats that fell prey to this sick teen! This guy has no place in civilized society!

[awakening2lite]

Two mayors chose to play different roles in cat mutilation cases

6.28 ~ http://www.miamiherald.com/news/miami_dade/pinecrest/v-fullstory/story/1116533.html

A tale of two mayors:


One makes a home in Cutler Bay with his two rescue dogs, Shiloh, an English setter, and Ripley, the lab mix.


The other shares a Palmetto Bay house with Ginger, a yellow lab, and Fiyero, a short-haired domestic cat -- named after the Scarecrow in the popular musical, Wicked.



''When you've got a wife who was an opera major and kids who are in the performing arts, you get names like that,'' jokes Eugene Flinn, 46, mayor of Palmetto Bay.


But the joking stops when talk turns to the subject that has gripped both communities -- and the mayors' attention -- since early May.


A series of macabre cat mutilations began around Mother's Day on a quiet residential street in Cutler Bay's Whispering Pines neighborhood. Soon, and with gruesome regularity, the serial cat slayings gravitated a hop north, into Palmetto Bay.


''We've had crime,'' Cutler Bay Mayor Paul Vrooman, 47, acknowledges. 'But when you add the word `serial' in front of something it takes it to a whole new level.''


Suddenly, the two mayors had a serious challenge: how to calm residents' fears, rally the police and work to catch the perpetrator(s).


Do too much and there's the potential fear of fueling the killer's ego. The teen charged with the crimes, Tyler Hayes Weinman, 18, was a member of a Facebook group about the cat killings.


Do too little and residents wonder why you're in office.


Both officials give ample credit to Miami-Dade law enforcement for doing the heavy lifting.


''My job was to stay out of the way and make sure the police knew I was there for them,'' Vrooman says. ``The case was cracked by [Miami-Dade Police Maj.] Julie Miller. She's a good police officer, knows her stuff, and put it all together.''


Vrooman initially felt that low-key, with less media fuss, was the prudent way to proceed. Not everyone agreed.


''The town of Cutler Bay never passed out fliers, never had a town hall meeting and never posted anything on its website. Unlike Palmetto Bay, no Cutler Bay council member ever addressed this situation,'' resident Kevin Woitke wrote in a letter to The Miami Herald.


Vrooman counters, ``[One] way I see my role as mayor is to understand what resources [the police] need, making sure they know I'm supporting them, and then get out of the way. That last one is most important. . . . My actions were not going to interfere with the investigation. If there were things I could do to keep other people's actions from interfering, that would be helpful too.''


Nevertheless, as the cat carcasses mounted on families' lawns and media attention revved, Vrooman took up an invitation to go on a stakeout with Miller.


''It helps me understand what they need,'' he said.


It wasn't like an episode of Cops.


''It was an uneventful evening,'' Vrooman recalls. The pair visited 13 homes and spoke to owners whose pets were among those mutilated, slain and left like talismans on their front yards.


''We expressed our sympathy,'' he said. ``It was horrifying for them.''


Also difficult: Vrooman made himself look at the crime scene photos.
''I wanted to see what people have been through so I would fully understand the nature of this and have a connection with the people who suffered through this,'' he said.


``It was like a kick in the gut, no question.''


For his counterpart, one city to the north, Flinn's interest had an added dimension.


''I'm right in the demographic of Palmetto Bay,'' Flinn says. ``I'm a father and a pet owner so I was right there in the thick of it. We were all worried about our cats. Worried about our neighbors and what kind of person in the community could do these kind of things.''


Easing the fears of daughters Meredith, 9, and Katherine, 13, -- and keeping Fiyero from bolting out the front door -- became paramount.


''That's the toughest thing, watching the effects on the kids and their friends,'' Flinn said. The roles of mayor and father merged.


''I listened to what their concerns were,'' he said. 'There's a time to sit and talk with kids and tell them that bad things happen and that adults do the best they can when they have to deal with these situations as they arise. But it's tough watching your kids and neighbors' kids and people get upset and they don't understand -- and they shouldn't have to understand this kind of activity.''


But residents, cops and the 24-hour news cycle all want answers. Flinn's approach was to use Facebook and Twitter, e-mails, Palmetto Bay's website and local mainstream outlets. The village held town hall meetings, too.


``I wanted to keep it low-key, but at the same time, if I wasn't mayor I'd want to know what I can so, as mayor, I need to get the information out as fast as possible -- without appealing to baser interests.''


Bill Kress, the village's public information officer, led efforts on the website. At a Saturday morning community meeting, he instructed residents on how they could sign up for instant news alerts. ''My background is from the airlines and it's all about being prepared. Not if the crisis hits, but when,'' Kress said.


Local media covered the crimes, as did the national media.


''I've done interviews with The New York Times and Washington Post,'' Vrooman says. ``It's been everywhere, all over the place. As far as crises goes, for Cutler Bay as a crime issue, it's probably the biggest thing.''
For Palmetto Bay, perhaps not, Flinn says.


Since its incorporation seven years ago, the village dealt with a 2004 murder at Southwood Middle School. Jaime Gough, an eighth-grader, was stabbed to death in a bathroom of the A-rated Palmetto Bay magnet school by his friend, Michael Hernandez, then 14. Three years later, University of Miami and Washington Redskins football star Sean Taylor, 24, was slain in his Palmetto Bay home when five intruders entered in the middle of the night. He was shot in the groin and bled to death.


''People worried until those perpetrators were caught,'' Flinn said. ''Southwood had a huge impact I wish we never had to mention again. . . . Each time, I'm proud the community pulled together and got together in a productive manner and grown,'' Flinn says.
Finally, some relief.


On June 14, 18-year-old Palmetto High School dropout Weinman, whose divorced parents live in homes in both communities, was arrested by police and charged with 19 counts of felony animal cruelty, 19 counts of improperly disposing of an animal body and four counts of burglary.
The investigation continues.

[awakening2lite]

Suspect in South Miami-Dade cat killings arraigned


In interviews with police, accused cat killer Tyler Weinman eagerly described how to dissect cats, even describing the ''tearing sound'' made when cutting open a feline's body, according to an arrest affidavit released Monday.


Miami-Dade police detectives concluded that Weinman fits the bill of a ``sociopath.''


Weinman, accused of killing and mutilating 19 cats in South Miami-Dade, was formally charged Monday in Miami-Dade court.



Prosecutors at Monday's arraignment made public a previously secret arrest warrant affidavit detailing the evidence used to arrest Weinman last month.
Among evidence cited in a largely circumstantial case:


• Twice during the killing spree, officers found Weinman near where mutilated cats were found. Once, he wore all black and a backpack -- and laughed when an officer suggested he keep his cats indoors.


• On May 15, when officers stopped him during a nighttime traffic stop, they found a ''cutting tool'' he apparently threw outside his driver's side window. The tool was impounded; Weinman was arrested for marijuana possession.


• During that arrest, Weinman claimed he got prominent scratches on his body from feeding a stray cat at his mother's house; he eagerly showed the scratches off to detectives.


• Police outfitted an electronic tracking device to his car that placed him in the immediate area of one killing on June 6.


• The teen, at length, described dissecting cats, which he learned during an anatomy class at Palmetto Senior High. He noted that cats for dissection could only be received from Mexico.


''It's really important to note that there is not one single, not one single witness in there that says that Tyler Wienman touched a cat - not one witness,'' David Macey, Weinman's attorney, said after Monday's arraignment.


The 18-year-old is accused of killing the cats in a monthlong spree that terrorized Cutler Bay and Palmetto Bay pet owners and drew national headlines.


He is charged with 19 counts of felony animal cruelty, 19 counts of improperly disposing of an animal body and four counts of burglary. Weinman is free on $249,500 bond and is on house arrest while he awaits trial.

He has pleaded not guilty.

A Miami-Dade judge had given prosecutors until Monday to release the arrest warrant affidavit, which was sealed as investigators looked at charging other suspects believed connected to the killings.



http://www.miamiherald.com/news/miami-dade/breaking-news/story/1129170.html

[awakening2lite]

http://media.nbcmiami.com/images/300*166/catguy.jpg

Coral Gables Police
Tyler Weinman is facing 19 counts of animal cruelty in the murders of 19 cats throughout South Florida.





Police Offer Evidence Against Suspected Teen Cat Killer Affidavit says Tyler Weinman talked cat dissections, was close to killing spots

By BRIAN HAMACHER (http://www.nbcmiami.com/results/?keywords=%22BRIAN+HAMACHER%22&author=y&sort=date)
Updated 1:03 PM EDT, Mon, Jul 6, 2009


http://www.nbcmiami.com/news/local/Evidence-Against-Accused-Cat-Killer-to-be-Released-Today.html

[awakening2lite]

Case #F-09-019761

Animal Cruelty Trial set for July 10th @ 3:00 pm est.

http://www2.miami-dadeclerk.com/cjis/CaseSearch.aspx

[Pauli]

Moved to it's own forum in Crimes and Trials...

http://helpfindthemissing.org/forum/showthread.php?t=14700&page=2

[sunstar]

Moved to it's own forum in Crimes and Trials...

http://helpfindthemissing.org/forum/showthread.php?t=14700&page=2

Thank you so much Pauli ~ from a cat lover.

[SavannahStar]

And thank you so much, Pauli, from a dog lover! Well, a pet lover! And an animal abuse HATER!!!!

[awakening2lite]

Moved to it's own forum in Crimes and Trials...

http://helpfindthemissing.org/forum/showthread.php?t=14700&page=2


Thanks for the relocation!

I hope this smiling guy gets the max for what he did.

In the released documents, reported by the news, he was stoped on the 15th and had scratches all over his arms, which he gladly showed the LE. Then he made statements about how he learned to cut up cats in biology class and that the only cats they used were from Mexico.

He smiles in his mug shots.

Florida does allow cameras in the courtroom, if the Judge approves it. With all the community outrage this case has generated, it might be enough for the Judge to allow it. Now, if we can just find a link...

It would be great to get live streaming and a chat room discussion at the same time!

IMO

(everything I posted about is contained in links further up thread)

[SavannahStar]

Accused cat killer took anatomy class, police say

Story Highlights
Police: Tyler Weinman described research he did on finding cats to dissect

Affidavit: 18-year-old laughed when police asked him about being the cat killer

Weinman is charged with 19 counts of animal cruelty and is on house arrest

By Ashley Fantz
CNN

(CNN) -- A South Florida teenager accused of killing and mutilating 19 cats excitedly described to police how he dissected cats in class, and where to find cats for experimentation, according to police.

When Miami-Dade police told Tyler Hayes Weinman someone was killing cats in the neighborhood, the 18-year-old reacted by laughing, according to a newly released arrest affidavit made public Monday.

Most of the cats were found in their owners' yards. "One appeared to be posed with a slit down the middle of its stomach," the affidavit states.

On Monday, Weinman pleaded not guilty to more than 40 criminal counts, including multiple charges of felony animal cruelty and burglary. He is out of jail on $249,500 bond and under house arrest wearing an electronic monitor, but is being held for 48 hours for a psychiatric evaluation.

The teen's attorney David Macey said there was a "lynch mob" after his innocent client and accused Judge Mindy Glazer of "prejudging" Weinman.

"He did not kill the cats," Macey told reporters outside the courtroom. "The individual who committed this crime is still running around out there."

The arrest affidavit, which a judge gave prosecutors until Monday to make public, reads like a grisly horror movie and indicates Weinman was knowledgeable of and fascinated with dissection of cats.

During questioning, according to the affidavit, a detective told the teenager that police were informed he was involved in the cat slayings. Weinman replied he heard about the cats and that he told his mother. He told police that a school he had been expelled from was the only school in Miami-Dade that taught how to dissect using cats, according to the affidavit.

The teenager went on to offer several other bizarre and unsubstantiated trivia, including saying that Mexico is the only source for cats used for dissection and describing their size.

Weinman "became excited and animated" as he told the detective about cat dissection research he had discovered on the Internet, the affidavit states.

"Weinman was asked to expound on what he meant and he repeated, with noted excitement, 'It just makes a certain sound, a tearing sound," says the affidavit.

The detective asked Weinman what tools might be used to commit animal cruelty, and teenager replied, "I don't know, but I'm sure they are very well hidden."

How did he think the cats were being captured? The teen answered, "They have to be either tranquilized or poisoned."

Weinman came to the attention of authorities in late April, the affidavit states, as cats began to go missing in a suburban Dade County neighborhood called Whispering Pines just outside Miami, Florida. Police had a few times seen Weinman walking and skateboarding in the middle of the night in the area, at least once wearing black clothing and carrying a dark backpack.

Detectives stopped the teenager and told him about the dead cats. Weinman responded by laughing, according to the arrest affidavit. He was not held at that time.

In May, the teenager was pulled over for a traffic violation and police found a "cutting instrument" on the ground beside his car. According to the affidavit, as an officer questioned the teen, he noticed what appeared to be a cat scratch on his arm.

"I got them from a stray cat that I feed at my mom's house," Weinman said.

The teen "was eager to show" the scratches and took off his shirt so that photographs could be taken, according to the questioning detective's account, which is detailed in the affidavit.

The teenager's divorced parents lived in separate neighborhoods, according to police. His mother resides in Cutler Bay. His father lives in Palmetto Bay, further north of Miami. According to the arrest affidavit, shortly after the teenager talked to police about dissecting cats, he went to live with his father who restricted his son's access to a car.

The killings shifted north as eight dead cats turned up in Palmetto Bay, police said.

At that point, police provided the teen's profile to the Miami-Dade Police Department's Psychological Services Section. Staff doctors met and discussed the case. They determined that the cat killer was likely male and suffered from some kind of conduct disorder.

If the killer was an adult, they concluded, that person would be classified as a sociopath.

In late May, police then got a court order to place a tracking device on the Honda Civic driven by Weinman. The affidavit states the car was tracked to the latest feline victim which had been skinned along the abdomen from the pelvic area to the hind legs. The pelt and genitalia were missing.

The cat killings became headline news across the country. Around that time, Weinman joined a Facebook page called "Catch-The-Cat-Killer."

The teenager is charged with 19 counts of felony animal cruelty, 19 counts of improperly disposing of an animal body and four counts of burglary. He's pleaded not guilty to all of the charges.

http://www.cnn.com/2009/CRIME/07/06/florida.cat.killer.charges/index.html

http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2009/CRIME/07/06/florida.cat.killer.charges/art.cat.suspect.jpg

[awakening2lite]

EXCERPT~http://www.nbcmiami.com/news/local/Evidence-Against-Accused-Cat-Killer-to-be-Released-Today.html

Another time, Weinman was seen skateboarding near one of the killings in Cutler Bay, wearing all black clothes with a dark backpack at 12:30 in the morning. When police told Weinman that there were cat killings going on in the area and that he should keep his cat indoors, Weinman laughed.


The affidavit noted that the killings happened near Weinman's mother's house in Cutler Bay when he was staying with her, then shifted to the area near his father's house, in Palmetto Bay, when the teen was staying with his dad. Police also put a tracking device on Weinman's car which put him near the scene of one of the killings in June.

[rem16]

EXCERPT~http://www.nbcmiami.com/news/local/Evidence-Against-Accused-Cat-Killer-to-be-Released-Today.html

Another time, Weinman was seen skateboarding near one of the killings in Cutler Bay, wearing all black clothes with a dark backpack at 12:30 in the morning. When police told Weinman that there were cat killings going on in the area and that he should keep his cat indoors, Weinman laughed.


The affidavit noted that the killings happened near Weinman's mother's house in Cutler Bay when he was staying with her, then shifted to the area near his father's house, in Palmetto Bay, when the teen was staying with his dad. Police also put a tracking device on Weinman's car which put him near the scene of one of the killings in June.

With all this coming to light, I wonder if Weinman's father can still proclaim his son's innocence. Justice for the poor cats is coming soon, IMO.

[sunstar]

EXCERPT~http://www.nbcmiami.com/news/local/Evidence-Against-Accused-Cat-Killer-to-be-Released-Today.html

Another time, Weinman was seen skateboarding near one of the killings in Cutler Bay, wearing all black clothes with a dark backpack at 12:30 in the morning. When police told Weinman that there were cat killings going on in the area and that he should keep his cat indoors, Weinman laughed.


The affidavit noted that the killings happened near Weinman's mother's house in Cutler Bay when he was staying with her, then shifted to the area near his father's house, in Palmetto Bay, when the teen was staying with his dad. Police also put a tracking device on Weinman's car which put him near the scene of one of the killings in June.

That's some really nice circumstantial evidence right there!! I just hope the DA can convince the jury he's guilty of all counts. MOO

[sunstar]

With all this coming to light, I wonder if Weinman's father can still proclaim his son's innocence. Justice for the poor cats is coming soon, IMO.
(bolding mine)

I sure hope so, but the sentence won't be long enough. :1187603408.CR.Mothe

[rem16]

(bolding mine)

I sure hope so, but the sentence won't be long enough. :1187603408.CR.Mothe

Usually that is true, but in this case, it wasn't just one animal that was killed/tortured. He was akin to a serial killer, with serious mental issues, so I believe he will get a longer sentence and possibly go to a psych ward before he is released. MOO

[awakening2lite]

With all this coming to light, I wonder if Weinman's father can still proclaim his son's innocence. Justice for the poor cats is coming soon, IMO.

His father can proclaim anything he wants. It's up to the court now.

That's some really nice circumstantial evidence right there!! I just hope the DA can convince the jury he's guilty of all counts. MOO

IA. It's great circumstantial evidence. I hope he gets the maximum sentence.








Hearing tomorrow @ 3:00 EDT

Anyone have a live streaming link?

[annalyzer]

Trial tomorrow @ 3:00 EDT

Anyone have a live streaming link?

Wow already?

[awakening2lite]

They have been busy. This from the docket of the cruelty charges:


141 07/07/2009 MOTION TO/FOR: EMERGENCY MTN FOR PROTECTION OF PRIVILEGED HEALTH RECORDS
138 07/07/2009 AFFIDAVIT FOR SEARCH WARRANT, SEARCH WARRANT & RETURN
137 07/07/2009 MOTION TO/FOR: TO SEAL
136 07/07/2009 AFFIDAVIT FOR SEARCH WARRANT, SEARCH WARRANT & RETURN
135 07/07/2009 MOTION TO/FOR: TO SEAL
140 07/06/2009 AFFIDAVIT FOR SEARCH WARRANT, SEARCH WARRANT & RETURN
139 07/06/2009 AFFIDAVIT FOR SEARCH WARRANT, SEARCH WARRANT & RETURN
132 07/06/2009 NOTICE OF HEARING 07/06/2009 @ 9:00AM
131 07/06/2009 MOTION TO/FOR: COMPEL PRODUCTION OF LAW ENFORCEMENT NOTES
130 07/06/2009 MOTION TO/FOR: PRESERVE EVIDENCE
129 07/06/2009 MOTION TO/FOR: INSPECT EVIDENCE
128 07/06/2009 DEFENSE WITNESS LIST
127 07/06/2009 MOTION TO/FOR: (EMERGENCY) QUASH SUBPOENA AND TO ISSUE A PROTECTIVE ORDER
126 07/06/2009 MOTION TO/FOR: A COPY OF THE SEARCH WARRANT INVENTORIES
124 07/06/2009 INFORMATION FILED
123 07/06/2009 REPORT RE: TRIAL DATE SET FOR 07/10/2009 AT 15:00
122 07/06/2009 MOTION FOR RETURN OF PROPERTY FILED 06/29/2009
SET FOR 07/10/2009 AT 15:00

http://www2.miami-dadeclerk.com/cjis/CaseSearch.aspx

[awakening2lite]

The hearing tomorrow is for the return of property belonging to the defendant and his parents.


EXCERPT

A hearing has been scheduled Friday on a motion that Macey filed June 29 to return property seized during the investigation.

Police removed box cutters, several knives, hypodermic needles and a metal dental tool, according to court documents. They also took an iPod, computer equipment, a pair of shoes and a piece of paper that contained typed directions.

Macey argued that the items, which were taken from Weinman and his parents, did not represent "the fruit of criminal activity" and are unrelated to any crimes.

http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/nationworld/sns-ap-us-cats-mutilated,0,7908496.story


I wish I could post more of this article, but it from AP.

[LiveLaughLuv]

from the link provided:
The affidavit supporting Weinman's arrest warrant details how the investigation progressed and helps explain why police grew suspicious of Weinman, whose divorced parents live in both communities.

It says Weinman, who had been expelled from two high schools, was spotted by police on surveillance in Cutler Bay after midnight on May 14 and 15. Both times, when a police detective told him about the cat killings, Weinman laughed, the affidavit says. It also says Weinman joined an online Facebook group dedicated to catching the south Miami-Dade cat killer.

During a May 15 traffic stop that led to an arrest for marijuana possession and driving with a suspended license, police also found a "cutting instrument" outside the teenager's driver's side window. At one point during the interview, Weinman took off his shirt to show authorities scratches on his body. He said the scratches came from a stray cat that he fed at his mother's house.

When police asked Weinman what tools would be needed to commit the cat killings, he responded, "I don't know, but I'm sure they are very well hidden," the documents state. When asked how the cats could have been captured, he responded, "They have to be either tranquilized or poisoned."

But Weinman's lawyer said none of the evidence directly connects his client to the crimes.

"It's really important to note that there's not one single witness in there that says Tyler Weinman touched a cat," said the attorney, David Macey.

Prosecutor Elijah Levitt said the affidavit "speaks for itself."

In one interview with police, the teenager reportedly became excited when he described a "tearing sound" when skin is ripped from a cat's body during dissections, according to the documents. But a high school teacher told investigators that no such noise occurs when cats that are dissected in a classroom setting because of the way the bodies are prepared.

After consulting with staff doctors in the Miami-Dade Police Department's psychological services section, detectives concluded that Weinman fit the profile of a sociopath.

Thanks Lite for that article..

Seems to me this young man implicated himself and was well on his way to becoming a serial killer, IMO..his next victims may have been humans...this is one scary child and I do hope he gets every bit of the 158 years if convicted...

[SavannahStar]

from the link provided:


Thanks Lite for that article..

Seems to me this young man implicated himself and was well on his way to becoming a serial killer, IMO..his next victims may have been humans...this is one scary child and I do hope he gets every bit of the 158 years if convicted...


You and me both! :1187603408.CR.Mothe

[awakening2lite]

from the link provided:


Thanks Lite for that article..

Seems to me this young man implicated himself and was well on his way to becoming a serial killer, IMO..his next victims may have been humans...this is one scary child and I do hope he gets every bit of the 158 years if convicted...



yw, LLL.

Did you happen to see the link to the arrest affidavit? I posted it in a new thread for this forum: Weinman~docs

There's more info in that doc than was reported in the news.

This is a very scary man. I shutter to think what he may have done next.

There was no blood where the cats were dumped which would indicate he mutilated them elsewhere. Almost all the cats were dumped back into their own fenced in back yards where they lived, leading me to believe he was proud of himself and wanted to "show off" what he had done. The tracker LE used also seemed (to me) to indicate he went home with the cats and then back to deliver them where he picked them up. Again, leads me to believe he tortured (at least some of) the cats at his home (Dad's home).

In the affidavit he also stated he felt forced to live with his father and he said he hated his dad.

This appears to be a strong circumstantial case, and he certainly appears to be guilty. If guilty I hope he will be serving each of the 158 possible years.................the scope of the mutilations were progressively more grisly (including 2 cats with their genitalia cut out) indicating he was enjoying it and experimenting or acting out on the cats ideas and methods expressing the anger in his mind. This is a dangerous person. IMO

I have searched, on and off, since his arrest and have not found any other cat mutilations in that area.

The burglary charges are not available to the public. IMO this is to protect the victims of the crime.


IMO

[sunstar]

Usually that is true, but in this case, it wasn't just one animal that was killed/tortured. He was akin to a serial killer, with serious mental issues, so I believe he will get a longer sentence and possibly go to a psych ward before he is released. MOO

I so hope you're right! I don't want this guy out on the streets for a long, long time ~ if ever. :madranting94dp: MOO

[sunstar]

yw, LLL.

Did you happen to see the link to the arrest affidavit? I posted it in a new thread for this forum: Weinman~docs

There's more info in that doc than was reported in the news.

This is a very scary man. I shutter to think what he may have done next.

There was no blood where the cats were dumped which would indicate he mutilated them elsewhere. Almost all the cats were dumped back into their own fenced in back yards where they lived, leading me to believe he was proud of himself and wanted to "show off" what he had done. The tracker LE used also seemed (to me) to indicate he went home with the cats and then back to deliver them where he picked them up. Again, leads me to believe he tortured (at least some of) the cats at his home (Dad's home).

In the affidavit he also stated he felt forced to live with his father and he said he hated his dad.

This appears to be a strong circumstantial case, and he certainly appears to be guilty. If guilty I hope he will be serving each of the 158 possible years.................the scope of the mutilations were progressively more grisly (including 2 cats with their genitalia cut out) indicating he was enjoying it and experimenting or acting out on the cats ideas and methods expressing the anger in his mind. This is a dangerous person. IMO

I have searched, on and off, since his arrest and have not found any other cat mutilations in that area.

The burglary charges are not available to the public. IMO this is to protect the victims of the crime.


IMO
(bolding mine)

Then his father should revoke his bail if that's the thanks he gets. :45024:

The details are horrific. As much as I want him convicted and sent away forever I don't think I could sit on the jury and listen to this. :1187603408.CR.Mothe

[SavannahStar]

yw, LLL.

Did you happen to see the link to the arrest affidavit? I posted it in a new thread for this forum: Weinman~docs

There's more info in that doc than was reported in the news.

This is a very scary man. I shutter to think what he may have done next.

There was no blood where the cats were dumped which would indicate he mutilated them elsewhere. Almost all the cats were dumped back into their own fenced in back yards where they lived, leading me to believe he was proud of himself and wanted to "show off" what he had done. The tracker LE used also seemed (to me) to indicate he went home with the cats and then back to deliver them where he picked them up. Again, leads me to believe he tortured (at least some of) the cats at his home (Dad's home).

In the affidavit he also stated he felt forced to live with his father and he said he hated his dad.

This appears to be a strong circumstantial case, and he certainly appears to be guilty. If guilty I hope he will be serving each of the 158 possible years.................the scope of the mutilations were progressively more grisly (including 2 cats with their genitalia cut out) indicating he was enjoying it and experimenting or acting out on the cats ideas and methods expressing the anger in his mind. This is a dangerous person. IMO

I have searched, on and off, since his arrest and have not found any other cat mutilations in that area.

The burglary charges are not available to the public. IMO this is to protect the victims of the crime.


IMO

OMG....the details........:1187603408.CR.Mothe

I hope he rots in hell! :45024:

[LiveLaughLuv]

yw, LLL.

Did you happen to see the link to the arrest affidavit? I posted it in a new thread for this forum: Weinman~docs

There's more info in that doc than was reported in the news.

This is a very scary man. I shutter to think what he may have done next.

There was no blood where the cats were dumped which would indicate he mutilated them elsewhere. Almost all the cats were dumped back into their own fenced in back yards where they lived, leading me to believe he was proud of himself and wanted to "show off" what he had done. The tracker LE used also seemed (to me) to indicate he went home with the cats and then back to deliver them where he picked them up. Again, leads me to believe he tortured (at least some of) the cats at his home (Dad's home).

In the affidavit he also stated he felt forced to live with his father and he said he hated his dad.

This appears to be a strong circumstantial case, and he certainly appears to be guilty. If guilty I hope he will be serving each of the 158 possible years.................the scope of the mutilations were progressively more grisly (including 2 cats with their genitalia cut out) indicating he was enjoying it and experimenting or acting out on the cats ideas and methods expressing the anger in his mind. This is a dangerous person. IMO

I have searched, on and off, since his arrest and have not found any other cat mutilations in that area.

The burglary charges are not available to the public. IMO this is to protect the victims of the crime.


IMO


I have now...this young man is very frightening..What he did to those cats is unforgivable..I do hope they were dead before he did what he did but I'm guessing they felt every bit of pain he inflicted on them...:madranting94dp:

You are right, Lite, he is a dangerous person who needs to remain in jail for the safety of that community and others...He needs to never see the light of a free day...

I wonder how his parents feel about this?

[awakening2lite]

I have now...this young man is very frightening..What he did to those cats is unforgivable..I do hope they were dead before he did what he did but I'm guessing they felt every bit of pain he inflicted on them...:madranting94dp:

You are right, Lite, he is a dangerous person who needs to remain in jail for the safety of that community and others...He needs to never see the light of a free day...

I wonder how his parents feel about this?


Can't address how his parents feel, but I did read (IIRC) that only his step-mother appeared at his arraignment.

Today, is the hearing to return property seized. I wonder which family member will show up this time. My guess...Dad.

[awakening2lite]

SOUTH MIAMI-DADE

Cat killings have cost Miami-Dade police more than $73,000 in overtime

The tab for investigating the South Miami-Dade cat killings has passed $73,000 in police overtime and will grow if cat DNA is tested.

By DAVID OVALLE

dovalle@MiamiHerald.com

The serial cat-killing suspect is behind bars. The high-profile slayings have stopped. And the initial bill for police overtime: $73,693.57.
Miami-Dade police spent the money on 1,104.5 hours of overtime over 10 days to investigate a spree that terrorized South Miami-Dade pet owners and spawned national headlines, according to a budget report released this week.
''It was the demand of the community,'' said Miami-Dade Lt. Eugenio Fernandez, who headed the task force. ``And there was the implication that this kind of crime would eventually lead to crimes against humans.''
More costs could come depending on how much forensic work is needed on the cutting tools that police seized. Cat DNA testing at a private laboratory could run as high as $10,000, said Miami-Dade assistant state attorney Michael Von Zamft.
Awaiting trial on 42 felony charges is Tyler Weinman, 18, who police say fits the bill of a ''sociopath.'' His lawyer, David Macey, says investigators assumed a ``lynch-mob mentality.''
Macey will be in court Friday seeking the return of Weinman family property seized by police.
The bodies of mutilated cats -- some gutted, one missing its genitalia -- began appearing in Cutler Bay and Palmetto Bay in late April. The corpses of more than 30 cats were discovered.
Miami-Dade police, in an operation dubbed ''Operation Catalyst,'' flooded the streets with extra patrol officers and undercover detectives -- so many that one bereaved cat owner mistook a detective for a criminal and confronted him with a shotgun.
Detectives from the Miami-Dade auto theft and economic crimes units helped in electronically tracking Weinman's car and cellphone. The homicide bureau also helped in questioning Weinman, who was arrested June 14.



http://www.miamiherald.com/news/miami-dade/story/1135203.html

[awakening2lite]

EXCERPT

Weinman's attorney asked Judge John Thornton Monday to order the state to return "personal property" taken from the homes of Weinman's mother and father when police searched them after the teenager's arrest. "They went in there with a bulldozer," Macey said, "and took every piece of property from this poor family, regardless of whether it had any connection to these cases."

The attorney said that among things police improperly seized was the checkbook belonging to Weinman's father, who is a dentist. "They took his business checks, which have no connection whatsoever to this case. They have not allowed him to conduct his business for three weeks. It's wrong." Judge Thornton did not immediately rule on Macey's request that the material be returned.

http://cbs4.com/local/tyler.weinman.cat.2.1080039.html



Still waiting for the results of the hearing.

[awakening2lite]

Jul 10, 2009 7:08 pm US/Eastern
Search Warrant Unsealed In Cat Killing Case

MIAMI (AP) ― Documents show that detectives took knives and other cutting instruments from the homes of a South Florida teenager who is accused of killing more than a dozen cats in two south Miami-Dade County neighborhoods.

The property seized from 18-year-old Tyler Hayes Weinman and his parents also includes a middle school yearbook, pairs of underpants, rope and computer equipment. The search warrants and inventories of the collected property were unsealed Friday so Weinman's attorney could specify what items the family would like returned.

Weinman has pleaded not guilty to 19 counts each of animal cruelty and improperly disposing of an animal body. He also faces four counts of burglary related to the cat deaths.

On Friday, a trial date was set for Oct. 19.

http://cbs4.com/wireapnewsfl/Search.warrant.inventory.2.1079881.html

[sunstar]

Jul 10, 2009 7:08 pm US/Eastern
Search Warrant Unsealed In Cat Killing Case



http://cbs4.com/wireapnewsfl/Search.warrant.inventory.2.1079881.html

Thanks so much ~ I was wondering when the trial was scheduled to begin, or if it will even start at that time. I'd imagine the defense will want to postpone it as defenses usually do. MOO

[awakening2lite]

Thanks so much ~ I was wondering when the trial was scheduled to begin, or if it will even start at that time. I'd imagine the defense will want to postpone it as defenses usually do. MOO


yw, SunStar

Well, friend, the trial is set for Oct 19, and I agree with your take on the defense strategy. I expect to find it postponed.

Here's another article with more info on the search warrants:


Cutting instruments, needles, pills, dark clothing and catnip were among the items seized from the family of a South Florida teenager while police investigated the deaths of more than a dozen cats in two neighborhoods, according to documents released Friday.

At an afternoon hearing, Miami-Dade Circuit Judge John Thornton unsealed four search warrants issued during the investigation of 18-year-old Tyler Hayes Weinman, who stands accused of the grisly crimes. The inventories of the collected property were also released.

"It was way too expansive," Weinman's attorney, David Macey, said of the search. "The state has recognized that and made some efforts to get us back our property."

Weinman is charged with 19 counts each of animal cruelty and improperly disposing of an animal body. He also faces four counts of burglary related to the cat deaths. The teenager has pleaded not guilty.

If convicted, Weinman could face up to 158 years in prison. On Friday, Thornton set a trial date of Oct. 19.

Authorities suspect Weinman, who has been released on bond, killed at least 19 cats, whose mutilated bodies were discovered in the Palmetto Bay and Cutler Bay neighborhoods. More than 30 dead cats were found in the neighborhoods between April and June, but investigators didn't have enough evidence to charge the teen with every reported death.

Officers collected more than 90 items when they searched the homes of Weinman's divorced parents, as well as a green 2004 Volkswagen Passat and a 2000 Black Honda Civic in June, according to the documents released Friday.

The Volkswagen Passat and Honda Civic were stripped of floor mats and investigators seized clothing from both cars, including pairs of underpants, the documents state. Authorities took a pill bottle with an apparent cat hair, dental tools, rope, a middle school yearbook and a wooden spear gun from the Palmetto Bay home of the teen's father. A black backpack, a skateboard, a pair of black padded hockey pants, a plastic container with catnip and electronic equipment were among the items seized from Weinman's mother's house in nearby Cutler Bay.

In a motion filed on June 29, Macey had argued that the personal property seized while the Miami-Dade Police Department investigated the cat deaths "did not represent the fruit of criminal activity" and should be returned. The search warrants and inventories were unsealed so Macey could whittle down the list of items the family needed returned.

"We're going to be examining the search warrant inventory, so we're going to hopefully agree that things such as tax returns and receipts and checks and stuff like that can go back to the Weinman household," Macey said.

When the sealed affidavit supporting Weinman's arrest warrant was ordered released, Assistant State Attorney Michael Von Zamft had said the released information might derail the ongoing investigation into the cat killings. He did not voice similar concerns Friday.

"Whatever damage was going to be done, has been done," Von Zamft said.


http://cbs4.com/wireapnewsfl/Search.warrant.inventory.2.1079881.html

[sunstar]

yw, SunStar

Well, friend, the trial is set for Oct 19, and I agree with your take on the defense strategy. I expect to find it postponed.

Here's another article with more info on the search warrants:



http://cbs4.com/wireapnewsfl/Search.warrant.inventory.2.1079881.html
It seems to me several items seized in the search warrant are potentially very relevant to the state's case, such as the wooden spear gun, a pill bottle with an apparent cat hair, dental tools, rope, a pair of black padded hockey pants, and a plastic container with catnip. Unless the alleged perp is a hockey player, it seems to me the padded hockey pants could've been worn when he seized the cats to prevent from him being scratched, and the catnip could be used to lure the cats. I was hoping to hear that the actually tools he used for mutilation had been found in his possession ~ or did I miss it?

[awakening2lite]

It seems to me several items seized in the search warrant are potentially very relevant to the state's case, such as the wooden spear gun, a pill bottle with an apparent cat hair, dental tools, rope, a pair of black padded hockey pants, and a plastic container with catnip. Unless the alleged perp is a hockey player, it seems to me the padded hockey pants could've been worn when he seized the cats to prevent from him being scratched, and the catnip could be used to lure the cats. I was hoping to hear that the actually tools he used for mutilation had been found in his possession ~ or did I miss it?


They also have a box cutter, syringe, rope, and a dental tool. (Dad's a dentist). There's probably more but we need the warrants to find out what all of them are.

I'm looking for the 5 search warrants that were released today. They'll probably be available tomorrow since the media has to ask the court to release them.

This guy is very sick. I can only hope the justice system will not fail the victims.

IMO

[sunstar]

They also have a box cutter, syringe, rope, and a dental tool. (Dad's a dentist). There's probably more but we need the warrants to find out what all of them are.

I'm looking for the 5 search warrants that were released today. They'll probably be available tomorrow since the media has to ask the court to release them.

This guy is very sick. I can only hope the justice system will not fail the victims.

IMO
Thanks for the additional info! I'm just praying LE has some weapon that can be tied directly to the mutilations (i.e. blood on it). I want this guy convicted on all counts! :45024: MOO

[awakening2lite]

Thanks for the additional info! I'm just praying LE has some weapon that can be tied directly to the mutilations (i.e. blood on it). I want this guy convicted on all counts! :45024: MOO


They are considering having cat dna lab work up on the knife, dental tool and a few other things. IIRC.

The cost on that is 10K. Can you believe it's that much?

I think the LE and the state are going to follow through on this and good for them!

Did you see his smiling mug shots?

[sunstar]

They are considering having cat dna lab work up on the knife, dental tool and a few other things. IIRC.

The cost on that is 10K. Can you believe it's that much?

I think the LE and the state are going to follow through on this and good for them!

Did you see his smiling mug shots?

Oh I can't stand those mug shots!! :madranting94dp:

I think just typing the blood as feline would be less expensive but maybe the DNA tests could really help convict him if the blood was actually tied to the specific murder victims. I'm very happy the state is considering doing this. I think they know that $10K is little money with the strong possibility that if this perp is ever released from prison he will kill people. MOO

[awakening2lite]

EXCERPT~July 11

Miami-Dade detectives searched houses and cars belonging to Weinman's divorced mother and father, Douglas Weinman, a dentist who owned various dental tools. The teen lived with both.


From the elder Weinman's home, investigators took the most items, including a wooden spear gun, more than a dozen cutting and dental tools and electronics.


From his father's car, which detectives believe Weinman drove during the killings, investigators took everything from floor mats to gloves.


Detectives are also examining Weinman's boxer briefs and other articles of clothing found in a black plastic bag in the trunk of his mother's green Volkswagen Passat. Police believe she was removing the items from the house when detectives arrived.


http://www.miamiherald.com/news/miami-dade/story/1136887.html

[LiveLaughLuv]

They are considering having cat dna lab work up on the knife, dental tool and a few other things. IIRC.

The cost on that is 10K. Can you believe it's that much?

I think the LE and the state are going to follow through on this and good for them!

Did you see his smiling mug shots?

I do hope LE and the State of Florida will follow through with this animal DNA lab. They need to connect him to those poor cats that were tortured, mutilated and killed.

If the state of Florida doesn't want to go for that expense, they can use this lab...




Animal Forensics

Investigators examine bone fragments, a pool of blood and other details of a crime scene. The puzzle they're putting together might sound like an episode of "CSI," but these detectives are using forensic science to piece together a case of alleged animal abuse.


The ASPCA was one of the first organizations to get on board with animal forensics as an investigative tool, launching a veterinary forensics unit and dispatching the first animal crime scene mobile unit, equipped with X-ray machines, computers, examination tables and video equipment.


The U.S. Department of the Interior is also doing groundbreaking work in animal forensics. Its work started in the 1970s when Terry Grosz, a special agent of the Division of Law Enforcement for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, was assigned to coordinate all endangered species investigations around the country. How? Grosz envisioned a forensics laboratory similar to that of an FBI laboratory that studies physical evidence from human crime scenes -- except these victims would be animals.


His vision began to take form when Ken Goddard, a former police crime laboratory director, was hired by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to set up such a program. In 1988, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Forensics Laboratory opened in Ashland, Oregon. Today, the laboratory is still the only one of its kind in the world.


The laboratory's mission is to help federal and state law enforcement officers and inspectors in all 50 states, as well as 173 countries. The forensics team conducts crime scene investigations, determines cause of death and if a crime occurred, and examines physical evidence in an attempt to link victim and crime scene with suspect. Laboratory specialists can also provide expert testimony in court.

The laboratory is organized into seven branches: administration, chemistry, criminalistics, genetics, morphology, pathology and digital evidence. Currently, a team of 33 people handles roughly 900 cases every year [source: Pahl].


Scientists here work with items such as bones, blood, hair, feather, fur, teeth, tusks, talons, poisons, strips of leather and any other part of an animal's anatomy. These branches use chemical, instrumental, microscopic and other high-tech techniques to study specific crime scene evidence in an effort to determine a piece of the puzzle. For example, forensic scientists in the pathology branch examine carcasses, wounds and even stomach contents in an effort to determine cause of death. Their counterparts in the genetics branch are able to identify a victim's species and gender from a drop of blood or piece of tissue, based on protein and DNA analysis.





CITES
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) is a voluntary international agreement among 173 countries. The CITES agreement oversees the international trade of wild animals and plants, making sure endangered species aren't exploited or threatened.

CITES, drafted in 1963 by members of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), protects more than 30,000 species of live plants and animals, furs, dried herbs and other products created from protected species. Visit http://www.cites.org/ for more information about CITES.


http://animals.howstuffworks.com/animal-facts/animal-detective.htm/printable

[LiveLaughLuv]

The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Forensics Laboratory is the only lab in the world dedicated to crimes against wildlife.

Our crime laboratory is very much like a 'typical' police lab, except the victim is an animal. We examine, identify, and compare evidence using a wide range of scientific procedures and instruments, in the attempt to link suspect, victim and crime scene with physical evidence.
http://www.lab.fws.gov/


ABOUT THE LAB

Why do we need a Crime Laboratory for Animals?

In order to prosecute an individual for a violation of law, our criminal justice system requires that the individual's guilt be established 'beyond a reasonable doubt.' Two ways that prosecutors can link the suspect to the victim and to the crime (and thereby meet the 'beyond a reasonable doubt' requirement) are to present to the court....

1.Eye Witness Testimony
2.Physical Evidence

However, because the reliability of eye-witness testimony is often considered questionable at best (often depending upon the circumstances of the observation, as well as the reputation and perceived self-interest of the witness), prosecutors often insist that investigators obtain linking physical evidence and relevant expert witness testimony before they are willing to take a case to court.

Prior to 1988, wildlife law enforcement officers at the federal and state levels were at a distinct disadvantage in taking their cases to a prosecutor because they had little or no access to wildlife-related forensics services. By providing wildlife-related crime laboratory services (analytical techniques and corresponding expert witness testimony) to these investigators, serious violations of wildlife laws can be successfully investigated and serious violators can be successfully prosecuted.

The primary mission of the laboratory is to:

•Identify the species or subspecies of pieces, parts or products of an animal.
•Determine the cause-of-death of an animal.
•Help wildlife officers determine if a violation of law has occurred.
•Identify and compare physical evidence in an attempt to link suspect, victim and crime scene.

In order to accomplish our assigned mission, and to meet the forensic needs of wildlife law enforcement officers at the federal, state and international levels, the lab's forensic specialists will conduct crime scene investigations, examine submitted items of evidence, and provide expert witness testimony in court. They do so much like their counterparts in a police crime laboratory.

In performing this mission, we support federal law enforcement efforts of our 200+ Special Agents and Wildlife Inspectors throughout the United States, all fifty State Fish & Game Commissions, and approximately 150 foreign countries who have signed the United Nation's CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) Treaty. View more about CITES on our U.S. Wildlife Laws page.

Any research that we conduct is specifically directed toward the species-source identification of wildlife parts and products. We do not expect (or intend) to receive any live animals at the laboratory, nor will we be conducting any research regarding the habitat, behavior or management of wildlife.

"Our mission is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, and plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people."
http://www.lab.fws.gov/about.php

[sunstar]

EXCERPT~July 11

Miami-Dade detectives searched houses and cars belonging to Weinman's divorced mother and father, Douglas Weinman, a dentist who owned various dental tools. The teen lived with both.


From the elder Weinman's home, investigators took the most items, including a wooden spear gun, more than a dozen cutting and dental tools and electronics.


From his father's car, which detectives believe Weinman drove during the killings, investigators took everything from floor mats to gloves.


Detectives are also examining Weinman's boxer briefs and other articles of clothing found in a black plastic bag in the trunk of his mother's green Volkswagen Passat. Police believe she was removing the items from the house when detectives arrived.


http://www.miamiherald.com/news/miami-dade/story/1136887.html

Thanks so much! So it looks like mom was trying to help him out and possibly destroy evidence. I remember another case where the perp's mother was doing the same thing and she faced charges until she decided to cooperate with LE. MOO

[awakening2lite]

Thanks so much! So it looks like mom was trying to help him out and possibly destroy evidence. I remember another case where the perp's mother was doing the same thing and she faced charges until she decided to cooperate with LE. MOO


:g:I seem to have a memory of that. Was that another case in Florida? :smile:

[sunstar]

:g:I seem to have a memory of that. Was that another case in Florida? :smile:

The one I'm remembering was out in California, the attorney's wife who was murdered in her home. Teenage boy was convicted. :smile:

[awakening2lite]

The one I'm remembering was out in California, the attorney's wife who was murdered in her home. Teenage boy was convicted. :smile:

Oh, yes, you are quite right. I followed the Pamela Horowitz murder case. The teen you are referring to received a LWOP sentence. His name is Scott Dyleski.

[sunstar]

Oh, yes, you are quite right. I followed the Pamela Horowitz murder case. The teen you are referring to received a LWOP sentence. His name is Scott Dyleski.

Yes, that's the one. :wink: I just hope in this case the mom didn't succeed in destroying anything that could convict Weinman.

[awakening2lite]

Yes, that's the one. :wink: I just hope in this case the mom didn't succeed in destroying anything that could convict Weinman.


ITA!

BTW, I've been searching for who was in the courtroom yesterday. Do you happen to know?

[sunstar]

ITA!

BTW, I've been searching for who was in the courtroom yesterday. Do you happen to know?

I think it was just the lawyers arguing to have the personal items released. :shrug1:

[awakening2lite]

I think it was just the lawyers arguing to have the personal items released. :shrug1:


You're probably right, otherwise the reports would have made mention if a parent or sept-parent were there. At least, that's what they have done.

Thanks, Sunstar!

[sunstar]

You're probably right, otherwise the reports would have made mention if a parent or sept-parent were there. At least, that's what they have done.

Thanks, Sunstar!

You're most welcome, but I was just guessing since there hadn't been mention of even the defendant in court, just his lawyer. :smile:

[sunstar]

Police: Suspect in Miami-Dade cat killings wanted deal

Posted on Thursday, 07.30.09

Tyler Weinman, the South Miami-Dade teen accused of slaying 19 cats, offered to tell detectives ``about one or two cats'' if they made criminal charges on ``the rest go away.''

``OK, so let me see if I understand. As long as I tell you about the cats that I did, you can get rid of the others?'' Weinman, 18, asked Miami-Dade detectives in an interview shortly before his June 14 arrest, according to court documents released Wednesday.

But the interview with police was stopped, the documents reveal, when Weinman said he ``would need to get my attorney involved'' -- effectively invoking his right to a lawyer.

Prosecutors believe his words are crucial to their case. But Weinman's lawyer, David Macey, disputed their accuracy.

``The reported statements are either misleading and or false,'' he said. ``The real statement will never be heard because the investigation -- with its unlimited resources -- failed to find a tape recorder. They did not want to record the truth, that Tyler Weinman is innocent.''

The teen is accused of mutilating and killing the cats in Palmetto Bay and Cutler Bay between April and June in a spree that terrified pet owners and drew national headlines. More than 30 cat corpses were found in the area.

Prosecutors have said they were looking at at least two other suspects who might have worked with Weinman.

No one else has been charged.

Weinman is charged with 19 counts each of felony animal cruelty and improperly disposing of an animal body, and four counts of burglary.

more at http://www.miamiherald.com/news/miami-dade/story/1163383.html

[Roamer]

http://www.abcactionnews.com/news/state/story/Accused-cat-killers-attorney-expects-massive-case/E06KLokX602T-dzCIIbVNg.cspx

Accused cat killer's attorney expects massive case


Last Update: 8/24 10:24 am




MIAMI (AP) -- An attorney representing a South Florida teenager accused of killing more than a dozen cats says he expects a massive case that might involve more than 100 witnesses.

Tyler Hayes Weinman's attorney, David Macey, says the teenager's family is already struggling to pay his legal bills.

Taxpayers will foot the bill for some of Weinman's case, under a motion Miami-Dade Circuit Judge John Thornton granted Monday. Thornton approved $10,000 to pay for depositions and $2,500 for investigative costs. He also cut the daily cost of Weinman's electronic monitoring bracelet.

Weinman is charged with 19 counts each of animal cruelty and improperly disposing of an animal body. He also faces four counts of burglary related to the cat deaths. He has pleaded not guilty.

[sunstar]

Since it's the defense attorney who's referring to the 'massive case' I wonder who these witnesses are ~ friends of the defendant who will testify to his stellar character? :waitasec: :madranting94dp: MOO

[SavannahStar]

This is the arrest affidavit. Not sure if it's been posted here or not; I just saw it on another board.

http://www.justnews.com/download/2009/0706/19964965.pdf

[sunstar]

This is the arrest affidavit. Not sure if it's been posted here or not; I just saw it on another board.

http://www.justnews.com/download/2009/0706/19964965.pdf

I just found it also and was about to post it here. It's almost unbearable to read. :1187603408.CR.Mothe :45024:

[SavannahStar]

I just found it also and was about to post it here. It's almost unbearable to read. :1187603408.CR.Mothe :45024:

Yes, it is. I just barely skimmed it, read a couple of horrific parts, and just closed the link. Stuff like this really affects me. I can't handle it. :1187603408.CR.Mothe

[sunstar]

Yes, it is. I just barely skimmed it, read a couple of horrific parts, and just closed the link. Stuff like this really affects me. I can't handle it. :1187603408.CR.Mothe

I did the same after the first few deaths were described, and then went and hugged my fur babies. :1187603408.CR.Mothe

[awakening2lite]

Weinman due in court Nov 10

EXCERPT

Weinman was released on a $249,500 bond in June and was ordered to wear an electronic monitoring bracelet. He is scheduled to appear in court for those charges on Nov. 10.

http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/local/breakingnews/sfl-weinman-trial-bn110209,1,6213407.story

[Anya]

From the article A2L posted -

The teenager accused of killing cats in his Miami-Dade neighborhood is due in court today on a marijuana possession charge.

I wonder what happened with the marijuana charges? All I could find were a couple of articles stating that he was due in court...can't find a thing about what came of it. :0009:

[awakening2lite]

From the article A2L posted -



I wonder what happened with the marijuana charges? All I could find were a couple of articles stating that he was due in court...can't find a thing about what came of it. :0009:

Court Case No.: B09032901
State Case No.: 132009MM0329010001XX
Name: WEINMAN, TYLER HAYES
Date Filed: 05/29/2009
Court Room: REGJB - JUSTICE BUILDING, ROOM No.: 6-6
Judge: NEWMAN, EDWARD
Defense Attorney: MACEY, DAVID

Charge: 1 CANNABIS/POSN/0-20 MISDEMEANOR

It should be noted the hearing on 11.02 resulted in a postponement being granted to the defense.
Here is the Docket on the marijuana charges:

Seq. No. Date Docket

25 11/02/2009 MOTION FOR CONTINUANCE FILED 11/02/2009 ORAL
SET FOR 11/02/2009 AT 11:21 GRANTED DEFS

24 10/22/2009 MOTION TO/FOR: TO CONTINUANCE

22 10/05/2009 TRIAL HEARING SCHEDULED FOR 11/02/2009 AT 11:30

17 08/14/2009 AMENDED DISCOVERY RESPONSE, RULE 3.220

15 07/15/2009 MOTION FOR CONTINUANCE FILED 07/15/2009 ORAL
SET FOR 07/15/2009 AT 14:06 GRANTED DEFS

12 06/30/2009 REPORT RE: SOUNDING SET FOR 07/15/2009 AT 09:15

9 06/24/2009 WRITTEN PLEA OF NOT GUILTY DEMANDS TRIAL BY JURY;DEMAND FOR DISCOVERY

8 06/24/2009 NOTICE OF APPEARANCE DAVID W. MACEY; ESQ.

4 06/16/2009 ALTERNATE JUDGE SCHWARTZ, SHELDON R

2 06/03/2009 CONSOLIDATED WITH TRAFFIC CASE # 5448-GDS, 5450-GDS

1 06/03/2009 DEFN CITY CHANGED BY FINALIST PURSUANT TO CLERK


http://www2.miami-dadeclerk.com/cjis/CasePrinter.aspx?case=B09032901

[Anya]

Thank you, A2L!

I don't know why I didn't think to look at the dockets...d'ohh! LOL

[texanne]

IMO they need to deal adequately with this young man, or he will be back in the news again.

[awakening2lite]

image at link




Even accused cat killers deserve a little holiday cheer.
A Miami-Dade (http://www.nbcmiami.com/topics?topic=Miami-Dade+County) judge ruled Tuesday that Tyler Weinman (http://www.nbcmiami.com/topics?topic=Tyler+Weinman) can travel with his family to Orlando (http://www.nbcmiami.com/topics?topic=Orlando) to spend Thanksgiving despite earlier rulings that the boy wasn't allowed to leave his front yard.


Weinman is accused of going on a freakish cat killing spree this past summer in his Palmetto Bay neighborhood, mutilating at least 19 different cats and leaving their bodies in the yards of their owners. He was arrested June 14. The killings abruptly stopped after Weinman's arrest.


But a judge felt Weinman had suffered enough in his house so now the teen will get to carve up a little turkey in Orlando. We feel sorry for that poor bird.


The 18-year old is charged with 19 counts each of felony animal cruelty and improperly disposing of an animal body, and four counts of burglary.http://www.nbcmiami.com/news/local-beat/Happy-Holidays-for-Accused-Cat-Killer-69682882.html

[awakening2lite]

Tyler will be having Thanksgiving with family tomorrow, but the victims of serial cat torture and mutilation won't be with theirs.


:1222423: For the kitties

[LiveLaughLuv]

But a judge felt Weinman had suffered enough in his house so now the teen will get to carve up a little turkey in Orlando. We feel sorry for that poor bird.


Has he suffered enough???

Where does this judge come off minimizing his role in the mutilated killings of cats?

He hasn't suffered at all..IMO...not yet anyway...

The families who's pets were kidnapped, tortured, mutiliated and killed suffered...where's his suffering?

Why didn't his father come to him? He's on house arrest as part of his bail..Wrong decision and I'm betting this judge will be very lenient at sentencing...:frown:

[sunstar]

:45024: That judge should be removed from the bench!!! :45024:

All the precious little victims should be enjoying their Thanksgiving dinners with their human families. Where is the sympathy for the pain the owners of the cats Weinman (allegedly) killed who have to go through the holidays without their pets? :1187603408.CR.Mothe

For all the kitties :1222423:

[Roamer]

I agree, sun. It makes me sick that he gets any kind of break at all.

He sure didn't give one to all those cats he tortured and killed.

[annalyzer]

But a judge felt Weinman had suffered enough in his house so now the teen will get to carve up a little turkey in Orlando. We feel sorry for that poor bird.

I hope that is all he is carving up. :mad:

[Roamer]

Exactly, Anna.

Let's hope the neighbors knew he was coming and keep their animals in the house today.

[sunstar]

But a judge felt Weinman had suffered enough in his house so now the teen will get to carve up a little turkey in Orlando. We feel sorry for that poor bird.

I hope that is all he is carving up. :mad:

I hate to think of him even near another cat! :madranting94dp:

[awakening2lite]

EXCERPT

During an interview earlier this year with detectives Weinman allegedly discussed admitting to some of the murders if the rest 'went away', according to documents obtained by CBS4 news partners The Miami Herald.

"OK, so let me see if I understand. As long as I tell you about the cats that I did, you can get rid of the others?'' Weinman asked detectives.

The documents indicate that the interview was cut short when Weinman said he would need to speak with a lawyer. David Macey, Weinman's attorney, said the documented interview proves nothing and can't be relied on for accuracy since it was not recorded.

http://cbs4.com/local/tyler.weinman.cat.2.1361910.html


--------------------------------------------------

I'm curious about the statement by Macey. If more than one officer was present - wouldn't that be a weighty sworn statement (by detectives) even without being recorded?

[sunstar]

EXCERPT
(snipped for space)


--------------------------------------------------

I'm curious about the statement by Macey. If more than one officer was present - wouldn't that be a weighty sworn statement (by detectives) even without being recorded?
Good question, a2l! It says "detectives" which indicates more than one. I'd think they each could testify as to what he said. MOO

[awakening2lite]

Good question, a2l! It says "detectives" which indicates more than one. I'd think they each could testify as to what he said. MOO

That's what I'm thinking.

[awakening2lite]

It appears Florida isn't the only state to take animal cruelty seriously. I ran across a thread here where Kentucky, acting on a tough new penalties of 2008, sentenced Thirty-one-year-old Russell Swigart, to 12 years for the torture and killing of cats.

http://helpfindthemissing.org/forum/showthread.php?t=19193

Isn't it wonderful when humanity can rise to punish the inhumane with substantial sentences? :hifive:

[Roamer]

Accused Cat Killer Wants To Go To College

Tyler Weinman Asks Judge to End House Arrest


POSTED: Wednesday, January 20, 2010
UPDATED: 1:42 pm EST January 20, 2010





MIAMI, Fla. -- Tyler Weinman wants to go back to school.

The teenager, who is accused of killing at least 19 cats last year, asked a judge Wednesday to end his house arrest so he can attend Miami-Dade College.



The judge ruled Weinman could visit a counselor to see what courses he could take and if he can take those courses online.

Weinman is accused of mutilating and killing cats in Palmetto Bay and Cutler Bay in April and June of 2009

Police are still looking for at least two other suspects but no one else has been charged.

http://www.justnews.com/news/22283791/detail.html

[steve]

The killings prompted national headlines and a massive police manhunt for the cat killer. Weinman has maintained he is innocent. His attorney argues police rushed to judgment against Weinman because of growing embarrassment and publicity over the cat killings.

The case against Weinman is largely circumstantial and could rely on the results of DNA tests being conducted on several knives and scalpels seized during a search of Weinman's home. If the tests do not link those knives to any of the dead cats, the case against Weinman would likely fall apart.

Defense attorney David Macey has been asking prosecutors to reveal the results of those tests. Prosecutors say the tests are still being conducted.

http://cbs4.com/defede/tyler.weinman.college.2.1437665.html