Police Arrest 18 yr old Suspect in Cat Killings

[iluvmua]

This little Punk needs to be taught a lesson; He's only 18.

www.justnews.com/news/19747620/detail.html

[R~O~S]

This little Punk needs to be taught a lesson; He's only 18.

www.justnews.com/news/19747620/detail.html



This man (he's 18) is much more of a threat than your post indicates. Serial killers start out torturing and killing animals before he moved on to people.

There can be only one interpretation of torturing and killing pets only to leave them for their owners to find after the fact, and that is an escalation from only torturing the animals (as if that's not bad enough) to torturing the people as well. The next step is directly targeting people.

studies related to animal abusers & subsequent violent crimes:

http://www.hsus.org/acf/cruelty/publiced/cruelty_serial_killers.html

If they're right and there were others involved I hope each and every one is caught, charged and convicted to the full extent. Our laws are severely lacking when it comes to consequences for this type of crime, none of them will serve any real time even if convicted. But I hope their pictures are widely publicized so the community can be aware and keep an eye on them once released.

[sunstar]

Sadly the death penalty can't be sought for the monster who committed these henious crimes against innocent animals.

This article has all the graphic details.

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

http://www.abcnews.go.com/US/AmazingAnimals/Story?id=7836149&page=2

:flamemad: :flamemad: :flamemad:

[onastreak]

This story may not belong on the In Session boardsand if anyone minds my posting it, please accept my apology. I find it as horrifically disturbing as the other cases I read about here.

The mug shot of this "young man" gave me chills. Smirking with dead, emotionless eyes.
If the article is accurate in describing his personality, demeanor and juvenile offenses he sounds like a future serial killer to me. Hopefully if guilty he will be put away for a very long time.

Link to story:

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

[Amy]

There have been cases where cruelty to animals gets a higher sentencing than what a pedophile who hasn't killed (yet) gets. That makes me pretty angry. OTOH, since cruelty to animals, killing and mutilating them is seen as one of the precursors to murdering humans, I'd be glad to have him put away forever, so he could not go to the next step.

[penguin01]

That awful smirk - he looks kind of like an up and coming Drew Peterson doesn't he? Yuck! I wonder what the law in FLa gives for his crimes. He is no longer a juvenile and he has lots of counts against him. Hope he doesn't plead out. Still - he'll get out someday - and who will he be then?

[R~O~S]

I posted this link on the animals forum in a thread, but it's not out of place here. This is a listing of state penalties for animal cruelty and gives a little info on the definition of what the law covers.

http://www.hsus.org/web-files/PDF/state_cruelty_chart.pdf

It says that for Florida it's a felony in the third degree, it applies to all animals but calls for "intentional" abuse. I don't think they'll have any difficulty proving that in this case.

The max penalty is 5 years &/or $10,000.00 fine. I can't tell by the incomplete blurb if they can substitute psychological counseling for prison time.

[SwFlorida]

I saw this on the news last night. A pet owner found her cat gutted laying on the front lawn..:cursing:

[sunstar]

I posted this link on the animals forum in a thread, but it's not out of place here. This is a listing of state penalties for animal cruelty and gives a little info on the definition of what the law covers.

http://www.hsus.org/web-files/PDF/state_cruelty_chart.pdf

It says that for Florida it's a felony in the third degree, it applies to all animals but calls for "intentional" abuse. I don't think they'll have any difficulty proving that in this case.

The max penalty is 5 years &/or $10,000.00 fine. I can't tell by the incomplete blurb if they can substitute psychological counseling for prison time.
(bolding mine)

I hope that's 5 years for each offense. Still that's not enough, IMO. :flamemad:

[penguin01]

Here's a longer story. I think picture #3 is the actual mug shot, the first two are ID photos.

We all knew weirdos growing up who might do something hideous like this - and in fact, we all knew it and wouldn't be the least bit surprised.

To have EVERYONE surprised - to me - makes this case very interesting. I wonder what he said on that website that made them focus on him?

In my experience, high school pot smokers are not the same kids as high school animal torturers.

I don't believe it. This doesn't happen in a vacuum - and everyone seems to say he loves animals and they love him.

http://www.miamiherald.com/news/miami-dade/breaking-news/story/1096711.html
Your link would seem to indicate that the smirk was for his booking photo - so I'm thinking #3 is just his drivers license photo and the white t-shirt one is really the booking photo.
I agree - the potsmokers wouldn't usually be the animal torturers to my mind. Wonder what it was that drew them to him in particular? This will certainly spell the death knell to his mom's "Life Coach" business, I would think.

[PoppySeeds]

I wonder what evidence they have. Is that a driver's license photo, (which would be an appropriate expression) or a mug shot? Looks like a DL to me. Interesting that his step brother doesn't seem to believe the charge. I would think a step brother who is a year older would at least have some vague inkling.


I think you are correct. I believe that is a driver's license photo. The blue background is the same in most states. Mug shots are usually a white background or a background with height measurments.

[Carmen]

He is surely a serial killer in the making. IMO

[sinagua]

What an awful story.

But, I am just amazed that people let their cats outside. I can't remember the last time that I saw a cat running loose. Where the heck did he (presumably) find all of these cats? And why turn your cat out when you know this type of activity is taking place?

I wonder if there is more than one boy involved in this?

[BorderCollieMom]

(bolding mine)

I hope that's 5 years for each offense. Still that's not enough, IMO. :flamemad:



Each of Weinman's 19 counts of animal cruelty in Florida carries a minimum mandatory fine of $5,000, six months in prison and psychological counseling.

this is from the link a couple of postings down from yours.

[kitty1182]

I better not post what I think of this guy..:cursing:

[BorderCollieMom]

I posted this link on the animals forum in a thread, but it's not out of place here. This is a listing of state penalties for animal cruelty and gives a little info on the definition of what the law covers.

http://www.hsus.org/web-files/PDF/state_cruelty_chart.pdf

It says that for Florida it's a felony in the third degree, it applies to all animals but calls for "intentional" abuse. I don't think they'll have any difficulty proving that in this case.

The max penalty is 5 years &/or $10,000.00 fine. I can't tell by the incomplete blurb if they can substitute psychological counseling for prison time.


This is from 2002 so the laws may have changed....
http://www.jacksonville.com/apnews/stories/032202/D7IDPE2G0.html

Anyone convicted of intentionally torturing or killing an animal would have to attend anger management classes under a bill the Legislature sent Gov. Jeb Bush.

The Senate voted unanimously for the legislation.

The measure (CS SB 1002) is primarily aimed at teens. Police and court records show young animal-killers tend to later commit similar violent crimes against people.

Existing Florida law does not give the courts authority to require counseling for people convicted of animal cruelty.

[BorderCollieMom]

I wonder what evidence they have. Is that a driver's license photo, (which would be an appropriate expression) or a mug shot? Looks like a DL to me. Interesting that his step brother doesn't seem to believe the charge. I would think a step brother who is a year older would at least have some vague inkling.



bold by me::::

I think it depends on how long they've known each other, how long the parents have been divorced, their personal relationship, etc....

[BorderCollieMom]

Here's a longer story. I think picture #3 is the actual mug shot, the first two are ID photos.

We all knew weirdos growing up who might do something hideous like this - and in fact, we all knew it and wouldn't be the least bit surprised.

To have EVERYONE surprised - to me - makes this case very interesting. I wonder what he said on that website that made them focus on him?

In my experience, high school pot smokers are not the same kids as high school animal torturers.

I don't believe it. This doesn't happen in a vacuum - and everyone seems to say he loves animals and they love him.

http://www.miamiherald.com/news/miami-dade/breaking-news/story/1096711.html

Much thanks for this link. It has TONS of detailed info in it.

I think when "everyone is suprised" when an awful crime is commited...its because of the instant "shock" , especially in crimes where the monster "seems" normal.



And, because most people have that "it wont happen to me" attitude....especially young people ... jmo

I agree about most pot smokers. BUT , if someone is a pot smoker, a meth head & someone who has anger issues, mental problems, abused by whoever, etc.....THAT is a whole different story.


Im not so sure that he did this all by himself either (IF he did it) which it looks to me like he did.

all jmo

[BorderCollieMom]

What an awful story.

But, I am just amazed that people let their cats outside. I can't remember the last time that I saw a cat running loose. Where the heck did he (presumably) find all of these cats? And why turn your cat out when you know this type of activity is taking place?

I wonder if there is more than one boy involved in this?

I also wonder if he did al of this alone. I think its at least possible that somebody may have done it too...BUT, most likely in one town or the other. Probably not both...jmo

[BorderCollieMom]

" IF " he is the sweet guy everyone talks about, I think its possible he commited these crimes for .... and it makes me wanna puke for thinking this....for sexual pleasure.

jmo

[BorderCollieMom]

This man (he's 18) is much more of a threat than your post indicates. Serial killers start out torturing and killing animals before he moved on to people.

There can be only one interpretation of torturing and killing pets only to leave them for their owners to find after the fact, and that is an escalation from only torturing the animals (as if that's not bad enough) to torturing the people as well. The next step is directly targeting people.

studies related to animal abusers & subsequent violent crimes:

http://www.hsus.org/acf/cruelty/publiced/cruelty_serial_killers.html

If they're right and there were others involved I hope each and every one is caught, charged and convicted to the full extent. Our laws are severely lacking when it comes to consequences for this type of crime, none of them will serve any real time even if convicted. But I hope their pictures are widely publicized so the community can be aware and keep an eye on them once released.


Bolded by me....

Animal cruelty/abuse/neglect laws have been changed ALOT in the past few years, all over the WORLD. It will vary somewhat by country , state, etc. though.

Its my hope that every single human "victim" in this case files a law suit against this animal killer ... if for anything else......

to keep this creep in front of judge, in "the system", possibly in jail longer, put ALOT of attention on this case, face to face revenge for the "humans", get that monsters name all over the web & news, etc.

The "humans" can also be awarded $$$$$ (not much but its the princple of it) but it could be donated to an animal cruelty organization if they so choosed.

jmo

[Jayne]

I better not post what I think of this guy..:cursing:

you and me both, Kitty...

animal cruelty has been shown to be a pre-cursor to REAL PROBLEMS...as in..more criminal behaviour..abuse. I don't have links to it, but have read a lot about it and have had experience with juveniles (and adults) who abused/mutilated/tortured/killed animals...and many of them were spousal abusers (the adult ones) as well.

There is NO excuse for anyone..no matter their age to hurt anyone or any animal. This is despicable. Another poster wrote that it's 6 months...some $$ per "victim"...well....this "kid"..if you want to call him that..is looking at 10 years at the least, I'd think?

jmo

J

[Details]

This little Punk needs to be taught a lesson; He's only 18.

www.justnews.com/news/19747620/detail.htmlThat's no little punk - it's a serial killer in the making. Tends to be how they start out - killing and tormenting animals - then they move on to humans. When you've got someone who enjoys the suffering of others, watching them die - there's only a very small step between animals and humans.

He doesn't need a lesson - we've got a serious question - is he fixable or not? If he is - many years of intensive therapy is what should be done - plus appropriate prison time for his crimes. If not - we should have (and don't) some way to sentence him to some type of institution that can keep him and us safe for life.

He's not only an animal serial killer of the most severe kind - he's good at creating a fake face that will (like Dahlmer and so many others) let him get away with murder for many years.


I don't see a punk - that's a teen doing damage and stuff he considers pranks as a way of showing their power and independence from society. This is a very seriously sick kid, who is likely to get far worse.

[Mimi428]

According to the ABC news article linked above...


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.

Anybody know what the laws are in Florida in regards to animal cruelty? I doubt he would get jail time for any count of improper disposing of an animal body. No idea what evidence they have for the burglary counts, but I think that might at least offer a hope of jail time.

I doubt this monster will spend 2 years in jail - & then he will be free to continue his quest for torture & mutilation.

[Details]

" IF " he is the sweet guy everyone talks about, I think its possible he commited these crimes for .... and it makes me wanna puke for thinking this....for sexual pleasure.

jmoIf he is, and if he did - I don't think it's sexual pleasure - it's the compulsion every serial killer has - to hurt others for their own pleasure - to have power.

[Mimi428]

This is a very seriously sick kid, who is likely to get far worse.

I think you are exactly right. He has a mighty smug look on his face in that photo - & it seriously concerns me that he might be willing to just bide his time until he has the next opportunity to snatch up an unsuspecting victim - animal or human.

I hope the judge or the prosecutor or SOMEBODY will push for a forensic psych exam, this story is very alarming, IMO.

[BorderCollieMom]

Sadly the death penalty can't be sought for the monster who committed these henious crimes against innocent animals.

This article has all the graphic details.

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

http://www.abcnews.go.com/US/AmazingAnimals/Story?id=7836149&page=2

:flamemad: :flamemad: :flamemad:

I just cant read your link, sorry. No offense though, seriously.

I DO understand your your feelings & anger.

I would like to bring attn. to a particular type of animal cruelty/killing and the laws out there so far regarding "Crush Videos".
Imo, this wont stop until the whole world is aware that crush videos exist. The more people that know its out there, the more people will report it to the Feds.

http://www.pet-abuse.com/pages/animal_cruelty/crush_videos.php

[BorderCollieMom]

Humans hurt & kill animals for MANY different reasons !

[Details]

I think you are exactly right. He has a mighty smug look on his face in that photo - & it seriously concerns me that he might be willing to just bide his time until he has the next opportunity to snatch up an unsuspecting victim - animal or human.

I hope the judge or the prosecutor or SOMEBODY will push for a forensic psych exam, this story is very alarming, IMO.According to what I've read - that photo is his drivers license photo - not his booking shot. So - don't judge by that expression - that's likely the look of a teen who has just passed his driving test, rather than the look of a smug serial animal killer who doesn't care that he was booked.

However, I've also read that he helped with the search, his friends and neighbors think he's a gentle person, and good with animals - which means he's very good at hiding who he truly is - makes him more of a threat.

[Mimi428]

According to what I've read - that photo is his drivers license photo - not his booking shot. So - don't judge by that expression - that's likely the look of a teen who has just passed his driving test, rather than the look of a smug serial animal killer who doesn't care that he was booked.

However, I've also read that he helped with the search, his friends and neighbors think he's a gentle person, and good with animals - which means he's very good at hiding who he truly is - makes him more of a threat.

Thanks for the clarification about the picture. Much appreciated.

I think the only part of this story that gives me any consolation is that he is 18 years old - so he will go through the system as an adult, not a juvenile.

[MiamiNice1]

Hello Everyone:

I was looking to see if there was a thread on this serial cat killer.

He attends the same high school as my daughters here in Miami - one of my daughters was in a couple classes with him and knows his girlfriend. He was a senior but was expelled from the school for selling cocaine.

The kids at the school are going wild about this.....half say there is no way he could have done it - and the other half is ANGRY. People have been keeping their cats indoors for weeks, now, out of fear.

He was first targeting cats that belonged to the teachers and then law enforcement.

IMO

[Details]

Wow - thanks for the inside scoop. Love to hear more, if more comes up.

[MiamiNice1]

I also wonder if he did al of this alone. I think its at least possible that somebody may have done it too...BUT, most likely in one town or the other. Probably not both...jmo
The way they label the "towns" is confusing. In Miami, certain sections decided to incorporate and call themselves "villages" (it is the pricer part of Miami and the folks were sick and tired of all the money spent on taxes and none of it was going into the communities for services or parks). You can say they "seceded" from Miami.

So they are not "separate towns," per se. There is no "Main Street" or anything. You just have to be within certain borders of streets. And they are all off of the famous U.S.1 Highway that goes down to the Keys.

Apparently, the guy lived with one of his parents in "The Village of Old Cutler Bay" and according to my lawn guy who lives 4 blocks away from him, the guy moved to live with his other parent when he felt he was being surveilled - over to "The Village of Palmetto Bay."

[Details]

San Diego we have that too - La Jolla, Poway, Clairemont, Ramona, etc. - lots of places in "San Diego", touching each other, that are labelled as different towns - it's just a bunch of houses on a bunch of streets, every here and there one gets a new label for which city it belongs to.

[MiamiNice1]

My daughter just told me that the kids who think he is innocent have created a Facebook Page called "Justice for Tyler."

Thinking about this, it had to be involved. I mean, you cannot just "catch" a cat easily. LE thought he had to use traps. So this required a lot of work, imo.

[MiamiNice1]

San Diego we have that too - La Jolla, Poway, Clairemont, Ramona, etc. - lots of places in "San Diego", touching each other, that are labelled as different towns - it's just a bunch of houses on a bunch of streets, every here and there one gets a new label for which city it belongs to.
Oh, ok, yes! This is exactly how it sounds like. The wealthier parts were completely subsidizing the (vast) poorer sections of Miami while their parks and police services went down the tubes. The Village of Pinecrest, where the High Shool is located, was the first to do this and they got away with paying NO mitigation fees to Miami. Did they LUCK out - and they are the WEALTHIEST!

The CIty of Miami wised up when the subsequent "villages" seceded and they DO pay mitigation fees. But they are still coming out waaay ahead, finally getting adequate police, libraries, beautiful parks and "city" services.

SO the "order" of "villages" is: Pinecrest, Palmetto Bay and then Old Cutler Bay.

[sunstar]

I just cant read your link, sorry. No offense though, seriously.

I DO understand your your feelings & anger.

I would like to bring attn. to a particular type of animal cruelty/killing and the laws out there so far regarding "Crush Videos".
Imo, this wont stop until the whole world is aware that crush videos exist. The more people that know its out there, the more people will report it to the Feds.

http://www.pet-abuse.com/pages/animal_cruelty/crush_videos.php
I'm sorry about the link, but I felt it was necessary for those who could stand to read it, to get the full grasp of what the perp is accused of doing ~ so this horrendous abuse wouldn't be ignored. Since I have 3 beautiful cats myself it wasn't easy at all for me to read it. And thank you for the additional information on the videos. :crying:

[sunstar]

My daughter just told me that the kids who think he is innocent have created a Facebook Page called "Justice for Tyler."

Thinking about this, it had to be involved. I mean, you cannot just "catch" a cat easily. LE thought he had to use traps. So this required a lot of work, imo.

Thanks so much for the local information!

[MiamiNice1]

Thanks so much for the local information!
Hi sunstar! YVW.

This guy is well-liked and it seems the majority of the kids back him and cannot believe he did this. I wonder what kind of "hard evidence" they have against him?

There was a huge meeting at the local park (Coral Reef Park) this past Saturday and the Humane Society upped the reward to $12,000. They discussed all kinds of precautions and did mention they had a POI.

This link details his charges (the home invasion looks to be ONE home, but listed 4 times?) Also, that is his DL Picture, not the mugshot:

http://egvsys.metro-dade.com:1608/wwwserv/crts/IPSAWISD.DIA?BALPHA=0&BGAMMA=0&PAGEDIR=F&PAGEN=0&PROCESS=D&L_NAME=weinman%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20 %20%20&F_NAME=tyler%20%20%20%20%20%20%20&M_NAME=%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20&INITIME=994&NAME=WEINMAN,%20TYLER%20HAYES%20%20%20%20%20%20%20 %20%20%20%20%20%20%20&IMTLOC=TGKCC%20%20%20&ALPHA=10251882&GAMMA=22&DELTA=131519

[fastpitch]

If he is guilty, was he taking the cats during robberies or how was he getting the cats?

I don't know of anyone that lets their cat outside. Plus, it is against our leash law, here - just like with dogs.

19 is an awfully large number of cats to find and kill. Perhaps he was "adopting" strays or are all of the owners of the cats, known?

[Details]

My daughter just told me that the kids who think he is innocent have created a Facebook Page called "Justice for Tyler."

Thinking about this, it had to be involved. I mean, you cannot just "catch" a cat easily. LE thought he had to use traps. So this required a lot of work, imo.It required a lot of work - but obviously someone was able to do it - why not him? I do know many people where I live leave their cats outside, indoor/outdoor cats.

We'll see what the evidence was - sounds like he's at least at the right locations, and with surveilance - they had to have a reason to set it up, and I'd expect them to have caught something on surveillance that would make it certain.


Has the boy or his family claimed innocence? I haven't seen that yet in any article.

[sunstar]

Hi sunstar! YVW.

This guy is well-liked and it seems the majority of the kids back him and cannot believe he did this. I wonder what kind of "hard evidence" they have against him?

There was a huge meeting at the local park (Coral Reef Park) this past Saturday and the Humane Society upped the reward to $12,000. They discussed all kinds of precautions and did mention they had a POI.

This link details his charges (the home invasion looks to be ONE home, but listed 4 times?) Also, that is his DL Picture, not the mugshot:

http://egvsys.metro-dade.com:1608/wwwserv/crts/IPSAWISD.DIA?BALPHA=0&BGAMMA=0&PAGEDIR=F&PAGEN=0&PROCESS=D&L_NAME=weinman%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20 %20%20&F_NAME=tyler%20%20%20%20%20%20%20&M_NAME=%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20&INITIME=994&NAME=WEINMAN,%20TYLER%20HAYES%20%20%20%20%20%20%20 %20%20%20%20%20%20%20&IMTLOC=TGKCC%20%20%20&ALPHA=10251882&GAMMA=22&DELTA=131519
Thanks again! So if the photo with the dark t-shirt is from his driver's license then the other one we're seeing (at other links) with the white t-shirt is the mugshot? He was described in one article I read as having a smirk on his face for the mug shot so I'm assuming that's it. All I can say is I hope LE does have the right person in custody so these horrendous killings will stop. I also hope nobody decides to copy the crimes either and that LE is still on the lookout for somebody like that. :sad: MOO

[Amy]

It required a lot of work - but obviously someone was able to do it - why not him? I do know many people where I live leave their cats outside, indoor/outdoor cats.

We'll see what the evidence was - sounds like he's at least at the right locations, and with surveilance - they had to have a reason to set it up, and I'd expect them to have caught something on surveillance that would make it certain.


Has the boy or his family claimed innocence? I haven't seen that yet in any article.

Many cats around here are indoor/outdoor pets. Fences, of course, are no obstacle for cats to get out and roam, but does keep most dogs @ home.

We also have several people in the community who are cat catchers of some sort. @ least according to my kids. The lady across the street is one. Set out traps, which I am assuming are cage type things where, once the cat gets in, the door snaps shut.

I guess anyone who really wanted to torture and kill cats or even other little animals could set up a cage to catch them.

[MiamiNice1]

If he is guilty, was he taking the cats during robberies or how was he getting the cats?

I don't know of anyone that lets their cat outside. Plus, it is against our leash law, here - just like with dogs.

19 is an awfully large number of cats to find and kill. Perhaps he was "adopting" strays or are all of the owners of the cats, known?
The police, before the arrest, claimed he used traps. Really, that is the only way I can think of to catch a cat. Here in Miami, there is no Leash law and cats roam wild. Keeps the rat and lizard population down!

I believe the cats belonged to specific owners. At the park meeting last Saturday, LE told people who had not seen their cats, to keep theirs eyes open, because this cat killer was returning the dead cats to the owners doorsteps.

[MiamiNice1]

Many cats around here are indoor/outdoor pets. Fences, of course, are no obstacle for cats to get out and roam, but does keep most dogs @ home.

We also have several people in the community who are cat catchers of some sort. @ least according to my kids. The lady across the street is one. Set out traps, which I am assuming are cage type things where, once the cat gets in, the door snaps shut.

I guess anyone who really wanted to torture and kill cats or even other little animals could set up a cage to catch them.
Yes, the cats are free to roam here, too, and the traps are as you describe.

The traps are common here, for catching nuisance raccoons and opossums. But it takes a few tries before catching them, as you usually will get a cat in the trap first! (The bait used is cat food).

The owners were going batty keeping their cats inside.

[MiamiNice1]

Thanks again! So if the photo with the dark t-shirt is from his driver's license then the other one we're seeing (at other links) with the white t-shirt is the mugshot? He was described in one article I read as having a smirk on his face for the mug shot so I'm assuming that's it. All I can say is I hope LE does have the right person in custody so these horrendous killings will stop. I also hope nobody decides to copy the crimes either and that LE is still on the lookout for somebody like that. :sad: MOO
The kids were quite upset over his smirking, but I believe you're right about the white t-shirt being the actual mug shot.

I really hope they have the right person, too - disturbing!

[Details]

When you've got an outdoor cat, it's hard to keep them inside. They want to go sun on their concrete, bat at insects, rodents, birds, and imaginary creatures they see in a gust of wind on grass, stalk through bushes, sniff all kinds of scents - it's a huge change to be indoors.

I've converted an outdoor cat to indoors - but it sure wasn't easy! Took a few weeks of work, and a few squirt bottles.

[MiamiNice1]

It required a lot of work - but obviously someone was able to do it - why not him? I do know many people where I live leave their cats outside, indoor/outdoor cats.

We'll see what the evidence was - sounds like he's at least at the right locations, and with surveilance - they had to have a reason to set it up, and I'd expect them to have caught something on surveillance that would make it certain.

Has the boy or his family claimed innocence? I haven't seen that yet in any article.
Apparently, neither he nor his family have issued any statements regarding innocence/guilt.

I'm expecting them to have some hard evidence of some kind, too. I mean, did the guy set up different traps at different homes, perhaps hidden in the bushes? And then he would go back the next night to see if he had trapped a cat and then killed it? Very involved.

[MiamiNice1]

When you've got an outdoor cat, it's hard to keep them inside. They want to go sun on their concrete, bat at insects, rodents, birds, and imaginary creatures they see in a gust of wind on grass, stalk through bushes, sniff all kinds of scents - it's a huge change to be indoors.

I've converted an outdoor cat to indoors - but it sure wasn't easy! Took a few weeks of work, and a few squirt bottles.
No wonder my friend was having such a hard time with 2 outdoor cats, keeping them inside!

[MiamiNice1]

Daughter just read now that Weinman's bond was denied for 48 hours.

[BorderCollieMom]

If he is, and if he did - I don't think it's sexual pleasure - it's the compulsion every serial killer has - to hurt others for their own pleasure - to have power.


I agree with the whole animal abuse . serial killer thing...BUT , not all serial killers were animal killers and not all animal killers turned out to be serial killers.

IMO, he MAY fall into that catagory....but I think theres other things going on. kmo

[BorderCollieMom]

Thanks for the clarification about the picture. Much appreciated.

I think the only part of this story that gives me any consolation is that he is 18 years old - so he will go through the system as an adult, not a juvenile.


^5 !!!!!! :thumbup:

[Details]

No wonder my friend was having such a hard time with 2 outdoor cats, keeping them inside!Squirt bottles are the key. Put one beside each door. When you go out the door, pick up the bottle, if the cat comes near - squirt it. Take the bottle outside with you, leave it there. When you are ready to go back in, pick up the bottle, aim at the crack where the door will open - and if you see a cat nose (you will the first few times) - squirt it!

That's the only way. Otherwise they hear you coming, plaster their nose to the door, and when it opens even slightly, they're off and running.

[Details]

I agree with the whole animal abuse . serial killer thing...BUT , not all serial killers were animal killers and not all animal killers turned out to be serial killers.

IMO, he MAY fall into that catagory....but I think theres other things going on. kmoNot all - but when you enjoy hurting anything, killing anything, it's bad - very bad. You might 'merely' end up a murderer, or someone who looks for an opportunity to kill and hurt others when you can get away with it, you might be an abuser, a rapist - but whatever it is - you're broken in that way, and that's bad.

I don't recall a serial killer that wasn't involved in animal abuse. And a serial and sadistic animal killer like this one is not a mere animal killer. I doubt that there's a single case like this guy where they turn out to be normal with regards to how they treat humans.

[BorderCollieMom]

Hello Everyone:

I was looking to see if there was a thread on this serial cat killer.

He attends the same high school as my daughters here in Miami - one of my daughters was in a couple classes with him and knows his girlfriend. He was a senior but was expelled from the school for selling cocaine.

The kids at the school are going wild about this.....half say there is no way he could have done it - and the other half is ANGRY. People have been keeping their cats indoors for weeks, now, out of fear.

He was first targeting cats that belonged to the teachers and then law enforcement.

IMO

Ive been wondering what his girlfriend & family think of all of this case.

If all of this is true I think he may fall into that last cat. of animal cruelty...control & revenge. That explains "teachers & LE.

Glad he's not in school !!!!!

[BorderCollieMom]

The way they label the "towns" is confusing. In Miami, certain sections decided to incorporate and call themselves "villages" (it is the pricer part of Miami and the folks were sick and tired of all the money spent on taxes and none of it was going into the communities for services or parks). You can say they "seceded" from Miami.

So they are not "separate towns," per se. There is no "Main Street" or anything. You just have to be within certain borders of streets. And they are all off of the famous U.S.1 Highway that goes down to the Keys.

Apparently, the guy lived with one of his parents in "The Village of Old Cutler Bay" and according to my lawn guy who lives 4 blocks away from him, the guy moved to live with his other parent when he felt he was being surveilled - over to "The Village of Palmetto Bay."


Cool, you DO have some scoopage going on !!! Thanks for sharing.

I was thinking more in the lines of him going to school (S).
Soooooo....both parents live close and they are in the same school district ?

This guy sounds scarier & scarier!

[sinagua]

Thanks for the info on cats. They aren't allowed out around here because the coyotes get them.

I wonder if the police took his computer? I am thinking that there is probably evidence on there.

Also, it will be interesting to see what other crimes he has committed.

[sunstar]

Daughter just read now that Weinman's bond was denied for 48 hours.

Hi again! I just heard on JVM's "Issues" that mandatory psychiatric evaluation is being done. It was also brought up that the perp could move on to killing humans. Thank goodness these horrific crimes are getting national media attention. MOO

[sunstar]

The kids were quite upset over his smirking, but I believe you're right about the white t-shirt being the actual mug shot.

I really hope they have the right person, too - disturbing!

I too want to know what evidence LE has, and most definitely hope they have arrested the right person so these atrocities stop. Fortunately it's Florida so there's the Sunshine Law! MOO

[MiamiNice1]

Ive been wondering what his girlfriend & family think of all of this case.

If all of this is true I think he may fall into that last cat. of animal cruelty...control & revenge. That explains "teachers & LE.

Glad he's not in school !!!!!

On the girlfriend's Facebook and on Weinman's Facebook, the girlfriend keeps posting whenever there are negative remarks, telling everyone how it hurts her more than they can imagine when they write bad things about him.

Weird thing was that police questioned this guy at PROM, back on May 18th. Now, Prom was held at the New Parrot Jungle (beautiful!) out on the causeway that leads to Miami Beach - it's about 30 miles from here. Isn't that strange LE traveled out there? To rattle him? Strange.

Yes, parents live close by and are in the same school district. It is the best school district in the city of Miami.

imo

ETA - Anyone familiar with Miami......The Village of Pinecrest is where the old Parrot Jungle used to reside. It was there for MANY years and was a popular tourist spot.

[MiamiNice1]

I too want to know what evidence LE has, and most definitely hope they have arrested the right person so these atrocities stop. Fortunately it's Florida so there's the Sunshine Law! MOO
Everyone is saying this, sunstar. What evidence? They MUST have evidence. Good thinking about the Sunshine Law!

Unfortunately, this same LE has jumped the gun before on a police shooting several years back, firsta rresting the wrong person.....and now, they were desperate to find this cat killer. Last Saturday at the park meeting, the FBI was even there!

[MiamiNice1]

Hi again! I just heard on JVM's "Issues" that mandatory psychiatric evaluation is being done. It was also brought up that the perp could move on to killing humans. Thank goodness these horrific crimes are getting national media attention. MOO
Oh, thanks for the info about the psychiatric evaluation. Wow. On JVM?

[MiamiNice1]

Squirt bottles are the key. Put one beside each door. When you go out the door, pick up the bottle, if the cat comes near - squirt it. Take the bottle outside with you, leave it there. When you are ready to go back in, pick up the bottle, aim at the crack where the door will open - and if you see a cat nose (you will the first few times) - squirt it!

That's the only way. Otherwise they hear you coming, plaster their nose to the door, and when it opens even slightly, they're off and running.
Thanks for the tip about the squirt bottle! I'll pass it on to a couple of my friends. They had a heck of a time when opening their doors to go in or out!

[Details]

Everyone is saying this, sunstar. What evidence? They MUST have evidence. Good thinking about the Sunshine Law!

Unfortunately, this same LE has jumped the gun before on a police shooting several years back, firsta rresting the wrong person.....and now, they were desperate to find this cat killer. Last Saturday at the park meeting, the FBI was even there!They should be desperate to find the cat killer - this person has all the marks of a virulent and indiscriminate serial killer ramping up to humans.

We'll see if this kid is it - I suspect so, just because the police in a high profile case tend to be a bit more careful than in a normal case.

[Amy]

They should be desperate to find the cat killer - this person has all the marks of a virulent and indiscriminate serial killer ramping up to humans.

We'll see if this kid is it - I suspect so, just because the police in a high profile case tend to be a bit more careful than in a normal case.

The question would be, was it a high profile case before the arrest? Hopefully they are being careful and thorough just on the merit of the case, and not only because it's high profile, IMO.

[esquirexii]

According to the ABC news article linked above...


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.

Anybody know what the laws are in Florida in regards to animal cruelty? I doubt he would get jail time for any count of improper disposing of an animal body. No idea what evidence they have for the burglary counts, but I think that might at least offer a hope of jail time.

I doubt this monster will spend 2 years in jail - & then he will be free to continue his quest for torture & mutilation.

If convicted of all counts, the suspect faces up to 158 years in prison. Here is the kicker. If he is found guilty of a multiple violation of the animal cruelty statute, he faces some mandatory jail time. Plus, he would be ineligble for parole or early release and would have to serve 100 percent of the sentence imposed by the judge. Ten years would mean 10 years. Finally, imagine the victim impact statements. Unless, he is found criminally insane, I believe that he will be going away for a very long time if convicted.

[Details]

The question would be, was it a high profile case before the arrest? Hopefully they are being careful and thorough just on the merit of the case, and not only because it's high profile, IMO.Yes, it was. Localized to that area, but the FBI was involved. I think they knew they had a likely serial killer on their hands, just a matter of who knows how much time before he moved on to people.

http://blogs.miaminewtimes.com/riptide/2009/06/what_we_know_about_cat_killer.php

I found something with what I believe to be the real mugshot - everyone else has been copying the same smirking photo with a blue background - mugshots don't have blue backgrounds. This place has a different one that looks right. Make no mistake - he's still smiling - but not smirking.

I've read - and it fits - that the blue photo is the drivers license photo - and it looks like a teenager when he has just passed his driving test. The other - an interesting expression - half smile - could be read as cocky or confident - or one of those nervous smiles when you don't know what is going on.

33 cats killed this way in this area, but they've charged him for 'only' 19 of them. Enough to send him away for a long time if run concurrently - I don't know what the law is there.

[sunstar]

Everyone is saying this, sunstar. What evidence? They MUST have evidence. Good thinking about the Sunshine Law!

Unfortunately, this same LE has jumped the gun before on a police shooting several years back, firsta rresting the wrong person.....and now, they were desperate to find this cat killer. Last Saturday at the park meeting, the FBI was even there!
Well, since the FBI is even involved, then there must be evidence linking back to this perp. Being his age, he probably left something worthwhile on his computer, or bragged to a friend, etc. I can't help but think that traps of some kind were used, as some have suggested, since generally a cat won't just come to a strange human. :sad: MOO

[sunstar]

Yes, it was. Localized to that area, but the FBI was involved. I think they knew they had a likely serial killer on their hands, just a matter of who knows how much time before he moved on to people.

http://blogs.miaminewtimes.com/riptide/2009/06/what_we_know_about_cat_killer.php

I found something with what I believe to be the real mugshot - everyone else has been copying the same smirking photo with a blue background - mugshots don't have blue backgrounds. This place has a different one that looks right. Make no mistake - he's still smiling - but not smirking.

I've read - and it fits - that the blue photo is the drivers license photo - and it looks like a teenager when he has just passed his driving test. The other - an interesting expression - half smile - could be read as cocky or confident - or one of those nervous smiles when you don't know what is going on.

33 cats killed this way in this area, but they've charged him for 'only' 19 of them. Enough to send him away for a long time if run concurrently - I don't know what the law is there.
(bolding mine)

It can be up to 5 yrs. for each count.

http://www.hsus.org/web-files/PDF/state_cruelty_chart.pdf

[MiamiNice1]

Well, since the FBI is even involved, then there must be evidence linking back to this perp. Being his age, he probably left something worthwhile on his computer, or bragged to a friend, etc. I can't help but think that traps of some kind were used, as some have suggested, since generally a cat won't just come to a strange human. :sad: MOO
Hard to believe he did this alone due to the handling/set up of traps.

I can't stand to see "seemingly normal" young people ruin their lives. I agree with the posters who say this is a step before him harming humans. :(

[sunstar]

Hard to believe he did this alone due to the handling/set up of traps.

I can't stand to see "seemingly normal" young people ruin their lives. I agree with the posters who say this is a step before him harming humans. :(

From what I heard on "Issues", LE is still looking at others possibly involved. If there are more, I just hope they are all caught soon. :sad: MOO

[Amy]

Yes, it was. Localized to that area, but the FBI was involved. I think they knew they had a likely serial killer on their hands, just a matter of who knows how much time before he moved on to people.

http://blogs.miaminewtimes.com/riptide/2009/06/what_we_know_about_cat_killer.php

I found something with what I believe to be the real mugshot - everyone else has been copying the same smirking photo with a blue background - mugshots don't have blue backgrounds. This place has a different one that looks right. Make no mistake - he's still smiling - but not smirking.

I've read - and it fits - that the blue photo is the drivers license photo - and it looks like a teenager when he has just passed his driving test. The other - an interesting expression - half smile - could be read as cocky or confident - or one of those nervous smiles when you don't know what is going on.

33 cats killed this way in this area, but they've charged him for 'only' 19 of them. Enough to send him away for a long time if run concurrently - I don't know what the law is there.

Thanks for the link. Boy, the comments???? I didn't know that language like being used there was actually printed? But, they do give support on both sides of the fence, more on the side of LE, tho.

[Mimi428]

This link has his booking photos - he is wearing a black shirt & he is smirking.

He has a bond of $249,500. He 4 burglary charges are for UNoccupied dwelling. Makes me wonder if he went to one place repeatedly to commit his evil deeds after he got hold of a cat.

http://egvsys.metro-dade.com:1608/wwwserv/crts/IPSAWISD.DIA?BALPHA=0&BGAMMA=0&PAGEDIR=F&PAGEN=0&PROCESS=D&L_NAME=weinman%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20 %20%20&F_NAME=tim%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20&M_NAME=%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20&INITIME=860&NAME=WEINMAN,%20TYLER%20HAYES%20%20%20%20%20%20%20 %20%20%20%20%20%20%20&IMTLOC=TGKCC%20%20%20&ALPHA=10251882&GAMMA=22&DELTA=139030

[Details]

This link has his booking photos - he is wearing a black shirt & he is smirking.

He has a bond of $249,500. He 4 burglary charges are for UNoccupied dwelling. Makes me wonder if he went to one place repeatedly to commit his evil deeds after he got hold of a cat.

http://egvsys.metro-dade.com:1608/wwwserv/crts/IPSAWISD.DIA?BALPHA=0&BGAMMA=0&PAGEDIR=F&PAGEN=0&PROCESS=D&L_NAME=weinman%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20 %20%20&F_NAME=tim%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20&M_NAME=%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20&INITIME=860&NAME=WEINMAN,%20TYLER%20HAYES%20%20%20%20%20%20%20 %20%20%20%20%20%20%20&IMTLOC=TGKCC%20%20%20&ALPHA=10251882&GAMMA=22&DELTA=139030More of a half-smile to me - he looks uncertain in the eyes - I think he's just not sure what to do - you usually smile for pictures - but this sure isn't the time. Doesn't look like a smirk to me.

No mistake - if he did it - and I suspect they've got the right guy - he's sick/evil, and needs to be isolated from society for life or until we come up with a sure cure for serial killers - but the original photos (blue background) were not booking, were a kid who had just gotten his drivers license - and this one, while there is a smile - I don't see a smirk.

[SDMermaid]

If he did it I hope someone takes care of him Dexter style!:cursing:

[SavannahStar]

If convicted of all counts, the suspect faces up to 158 years in prison. Here is the kicker. If he is found guilty of a multiple violation of the animal cruelty statute, he faces some mandatory jail time. Plus, he would be ineligble for parole or early release and would have to serve 100 percent of the sentence imposed by the judge. Ten years would mean 10 years. Finally, imagine the victim impact statements. Unless, he is found criminally insane, I believe that he will be going away for a very long time if convicted.


I hope he does get sent away for the maximum.....never to see the light of day again.

This case has made me cry.

[sunstar]

If convicted of all counts, the suspect faces up to 158 years in prison. Here is the kicker. If he is found guilty of a multiple violation of the animal cruelty statute, he faces some mandatory jail time. Plus, he would be ineligble for parole or early release and would have to serve 100 percent of the sentence imposed by the judge. Ten years would mean 10 years. Finally, imagine the victim impact statements. Unless, he is found criminally insane, I believe that he will be going away for a very long time if convicted.

Thank you for giving me something positive to think about! He'd also face time on the burglary charges too, but like so many others feel, it would be scary to have someone capable of these horrific crimes back on the street. MOO

[sunstar]

I hope he does get sent away for the maximum.....never to see the light of day again.

This case has made me cry.

Me too, Savannah. :crying:

[Debb]

I agree that this man must certainly be a psychopath. The only way to keep him from hurting animals and people will be to keep him locked up. There is no way to create any empathy in people with this condition. It's really sad. No one recovers from it.

[iluvmua]

I hope he does get 158 years; if he gets out he will upgrade to killing humans.

[BorderCollieMom]

This link has his booking photos - he is wearing a black shirt & he is smirking.

He has a bond of $249,500. He 4 burglary charges are for UNoccupied dwelling. Makes me wonder if he went to one place repeatedly to commit his evil deeds after he got hold of a cat.
http://egvsys.metro-dade.com:1608/wwwserv/crts/IPSAWISD.DIA?BALPHA=0&BGAMMA=0&PAGEDIR=F&PAGEN=0&PROCESS=D&L_NAME=weinman%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20 %20%20&F_NAME=tim%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20&M_NAME=%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20&INITIME=860&NAME=WEINMAN,%20TYLER%20HAYES%20%20%20%20%20%20%20 %20%20%20%20%20%20%20&IMTLOC=TGKCC%20%20%20&ALPHA=10251882&GAMMA=22&DELTA=139030

bolded by me.

I know what the occipied burglary is here in Tx (Im in a case now)....but I wasnt sure about Florida and UNoccupied..

Its as I thought. He went in a dwelling & nobody was home .... thats how I read it. And it looks like a "home" is a "structure". Sorry about the crappy link...I just picked the first one, lol..
http://www.ralphbehr.net/lawyer-attorney-1340364.html
A conviction for burglary of an unoccupied structure in Florida carries a 15 year Maxim sentence.


***********I was thinking maybe he killed those homeowners cat/s and while there, took something out of the home. Just guessing.

[BorderCollieMom]

I just cant believe this ! My mind is reeling !!!!!

http://www.nationalledger.com/ledgerdc/article_272626528.shtml

According to that report cops are trying to figure out if a class project may have sparked the alleged behavior. The project, dissecting cats last year in class at Palmetto Senior High School. As always he is described as "a nice kid."

[BorderCollieMom]

http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sfl-cat-killing-arrest-061409,0,5653275.story

Accused cat killer posts bond
Teenage suspect on suicide watch

A south Miami-Dade teen accused of killing and mutilating 19 cats in Palmetto Bay and Cutler Bay has posted a nearly quarter-million-dollar bail. Tyler Weinman, 18, will be released to the house arrest program, WFOR-Ch. 4 reports.


Theres another page on that link that says...

The meeting was to be held Wednesday at the Palmetto Bay Village Center, and a camera crew from the Discovery Channel's Animal Planet was planning to film it, said Sheeder, who runs a yacht brokerage.

[LadyBlue]

I hope he does get 158 years; if he gets out he will upgrade to killing humans.


They should put him in a cage with the cats big cousin...a hungry tiger....and see how he likes it....:flamemad::flamemad::flamemad:

[Details]

If he did it I hope someone takes care of him Dexter style!:cursing:Haven't you noticed? He is Dexter. Minus the brainwashing to only go after one group. Or maybe even with it.

And as entertaining a wish fulfillment fantasy as Dexter is (I'm a fan) - reality is that when you've got someone who is a born or made serial killer like this kid appears to be - we've got to find a lifetime solution for them until we have a cure (if ever).

[iluvmua]

Maybe when he's on house arrest someone will put him out of his misery and people won't have to worry about him anymore.

[n/t]

I just cant believe this ! My mind is reeling !!!!!

http://www.nationalledger.com/ledgerdc/article_272626528.shtml

According to that report cops are trying to figure out if a class project may have sparked the alleged behavior. The project, dissecting cats last year in class at Palmetto Senior High School. As always he is described as "a nice kid."

WHAAAATTTTT? :scared:

[n/t]

http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sfl-cat-killing-arrest-061409,0,5653275.story

Accused cat killer posts bond
Teenage suspect on suicide watch

A south Miami-Dade teen accused of killing and mutilating 19 cats in Palmetto Bay and Cutler Bay has posted a nearly quarter-million-dollar bail. Tyler Weinman, 18, will be released to the house arrest program, WFOR-Ch. 4 reports.


Theres another page on that link that says...

The meeting was to be held Wednesday at the Palmetto Bay Village Center, and a camera crew from the Discovery Channel's Animal Planet was planning to film it, said Sheeder, who runs a yacht brokerage.


The way I understand it is there was supposed to be a meeting on the cat killings but it was cancelled.

From the link:

Weinman's arrest prompted many residents of the Palmetto Bay and Cutler Bay area to "breathe a huge sigh of relief," according to local animal activist Jana Sheeder, who was busy Monday canceling a scheduled community event billed as a "Cat Killings Educational Meeting."

The meeting was to be held Wednesday at the Palmetto Bay Village Center, and a camera crew from the Discovery Channel's Animal Planet was planning to film it, said Sheeder, who runs a yacht brokerage.

[SKARDYKAT]

WHAAAATTTTT? :scared:

You have got to be kidding me !!! :cursing:
They use cats in biology now instead of frogs???

[Details]

You have got to be kidding me !!! :cursing:
They use cats in biology now instead of frogs???Probably a special deal is how it sounded to me. A cat will give them a much better picture of how things work, just being larger and more similar to people. And with all of the cats euthanized due to overpopulation at humane shelters - there's a supply of dead cats if needed.


But that didn't cause this crime. There's no wave of Frog mutilations, no wave of mouse mutilations due to the existing standard biology curriculum. This is a sick, broken person looking for a way to hurt people - a family pet that is often outside, but is more helpless than a dog - an obvious target.

[LILMANMAX]

This MONSTER is SICK beyond my comprehension. :angry:

I cannot believe he would be allowed bond. If these cruel murders had been committed against humans he would not have bond. Its time for the laws to change and I mean REALLY CHANGE.
Leave the little MONSTER in jail. :cursing:
He is a serial killer in the making. JMO

Animals are the most innocent and defenseless creatures God created.

I cannot remember ever being this SICKENED AND ANGRY.

[Mimi428]

Probably a special deal is how it sounded to me. A cat will give them a much better picture of how things work, just being larger and more similar to people. And with all of the cats euthanized due to overpopulation at humane shelters - there's a supply of dead cats if needed.


But that didn't cause this crime. There's no wave of Frog mutilations, no wave of mouse mutilations due to the existing standard biology curriculum. This is a sick, broken person looking for a way to hurt people - a family pet that is often outside, but is more helpless than a dog - an obvious target.




I think you are right about where the cats come from. Shelters have to euthanize healthy cats day in & day out.

The similarity of a frog's anatomy to a human's anatomy is not too high. Much more similarity between a cat & a human.

If the reports I have read are accurate - the cats were typically skinned from the 'waist' down. Correlate 'waist down' on a human & I think it is not too much of a stretch to believe he may have some real violent sexual fantasies going on.

Now I'm wondering if/how fast his parents are going to get him into some kind of heavy duty psych treatment before these cases go to trial. And at his young age, I think he is going to have a lot of trouble with the conditions of electronic monitoring. We'll see.

JMO

[SKARDYKAT]

Well, if the investigators thing the dissecting of the animals may be a "possible motive", I hope the defense doesn't jump on this. Then again, on one of the videos, a friend stated his step-mom had 12 or 15 cats at home.......something is seriously wrong with this kid.

[Amy]

I just cant believe this ! My mind is reeling !!!!!

http://www.nationalledger.com/ledgerdc/article_272626528.shtml

According to that report cops are trying to figure out if a class project may have sparked the alleged behavior. The project, dissecting cats last year in class at Palmetto Senior High School. As always he is described as "a nice kid."

Oh, for Pete's sake!!! If a biology class was going to spark this kind of behaviour, there would have been a lot of kids torturing, mutilating and killing a couple dozen cats each for eons now. I suppose, because of this (I want to say idiotic, but don't want to be sued or anything) weird "theory" schools across the nation will have to change their curriculum to address this "problem." Wonder how long it will take animal rights organizations to jump on this.

And, here we go again. Find SOMETHING or SOMEONE else to "take responsibility" for one person's actions instead of making that person own up to it and take the consequences. :cursing: IMO

[Amy]

http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sfl-cat-killing-arrest-061409,0,5653275.story

Accused cat killer posts bond
Teenage suspect on suicide watch

A south Miami-Dade teen accused of killing and mutilating 19 cats in Palmetto Bay and Cutler Bay has posted a nearly quarter-million-dollar bail. Tyler Weinman, 18, will be released to the house arrest program, WFOR-Ch. 4 reports.


Theres another page on that link that says...

The meeting was to be held Wednesday at the Palmetto Bay Village Center, and a camera crew from the Discovery Channel's Animal Planet was planning to film it, said Sheeder, who runs a yacht brokerage.

I don't know why Mr. Macey "disagrees" w/the psych exam--the arrest was made BEFORE the exam, and did not reflect on what the investigators found that caused them to arrest Weinman, IMO.

Also, Mr Macey says "the court" has convicted Weinman. He's an attorney. I'm not, but even I understand that an arrest makes an allegation of this person committing a crime. Everyone knows that he is not convicted by the court until after a trial has been held. What does he expect? No arrest, just one day he (the alleged perp) is given a summons to report to court so a trial can be held?

Perhaps he means convicted in the media or in the public opinion. There is just no way to keep the media and the public from having their own opinions on the matter. I guess, it could be like in some other countries where there is essentially a gag order on all cases. That might keep it out of the media, and might keep the public from expressing their opinions, but it sure as heck can't stop people from froming their own opinions.

If he means the police, well, obviously they feel the evidence they have found points to this perp. But, even LE knows that the person is "innocent" until the last gavel of the court hammers down. The police haven't convicted this kid, they have just arrested him.

I find it interesting that, one day he is on suicide watch, the next day perfectly capable of being released to a parent w/an ankle bracelet. Hope someone in the home continues the suicide watch if he is that bad off. IMO

[Mimi428]

Well, if the investigators thing the dissecting of the animals may be a "possible motive", I hope the defense doesn't jump on this. Then again, on one of the videos, a friend stated his step-mom had 12 or 15 cats at home.......something is seriously wrong with this kid.

Speaking only for myself, there is no way I can believe that doing animal dissection in biology class turned him into a person who would steal someone's pet, bash the cat's head in, skin it from the middle downwards & gut it.

I just don't think his defense attorney would want to embrace that idiotic notion, either - because in order to do so, it requires an admission that his client DID do all those things in the first place. The attorney does not strike me as someone who wants to admit that his client had any culpability - he sounds more like the type of guy who is going to say "prove it" & not have his client admit to anything at all.

JMO

[BorderCollieMom]

Fla. judge says 18-year-old ‘competent’ to proceed to trial

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/31407046/ns/us_news-crime_and_courts/


Judge:
''The psychiatric evaluation indicates he is competent to proceed. He does not appear at risk of harming himself or others,'' Thornton said.

:confused:

Note: July 6 is the arraignment

[penguin01]

Well, if the investigators thing the dissecting of the animals may be a "possible motive", I hope the defense doesn't jump on this. Then again, on one of the videos, a friend stated his step-mom had 12 or 15 cats at home.......something is seriously wrong with this kid. Well we don't know if this kid actually did anything yet - but if his step-mom really does have 12 -15 cats at home we know there is definitely something wrong with her! IMO :laugh: The only thing I can see the defense jump on is that all those cats at his step-mom and dad's house are still alive (if that is indeed the case.)

[Amy]

Fla. judge says 18-year-old ‘competent’ to proceed to trial

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/31407046/ns/us_news-crime_and_courts/


Judge:
''The psychiatric evaluation indicates he is competent to proceed. He does not appear at risk of harming himself or others,'' Thornton said.

:confused:

Note: July 6 is the arraignment

No, but the animals should be very, very afraid.

So, wonder if this is the eval the defense attorney said he didn't agree with? If so, did he not agree that the kid is competent to stand trial, or did he not agree that he is not a threat to himself or others, or both?

[Amy]

Well we don't know if this kid actually did anything yet - but if his step-mom really does have 12 -15 cats at home we know there is definitely something wrong with her! IMO :laugh: The only thing I can see the defense jump on is that all those cats at his step-mom and dad's house are still alive (if that is indeed the case.)

That won't necessarily hold up, tho. If the defense is going to go that way, hopefully the prosecution will look up cases like the one where the fellow had killed 3 or 4 women. He lived w/his gf and she asked--why them? Why not me? (Altho seems he HAD come kind of close on occasion w/his kinky sex practices.) He told her, he killed the other women so he would NOT kill her. He had a good deal going @ her house, which would have stopped if he had killed her. So, guess that, when he had the urge to kill her for whatever reason, he went out and found a perfect stranger to do in.'

Maybe he LIKES his mom's cats (if it is his step-mom with all the cats) but (obviously) LIKES to mutilate and kills cats, so goes to get cats that he has no personal attachment to. Or, perhaps he likes his step-mom enough to not kill her cats, as that would make her sad.

[sunstar]

Fla. judge says 18-year-old ‘competent’ to proceed to trial

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/31407046/ns/us_news-crime_and_courts/


Judge:
''The psychiatric evaluation indicates he is competent to proceed. He does not appear at risk of harming himself or others,'' Thornton said.

:confused:

Note: July 6 is the arraignment
(bolding mine)

I'm confused too. The cats he's accused of mutilating and killing aren't "others"? :crying:


eta ~ Thank you CW for moving this thread to the "crimes" forum where it belongs.

[Details]

Nope - that phrase "not a danger to himself or others" refers to humans. It's to answer the question if he can be let out without killing a person. I wouldn't personally be so sure about that myself - if he did this, no way is he not a threat to others.


I think there's two reasons I could see he didn't kill his own cats - one would be that he likes them - another would be that he knew he'd be caught, people would figure it out faster. Although the darkest reason would be that he wanted to hurt his stepmother without being caught, so making her scared for her own cats would work.

[sunstar]

Nope - that phrase "not a danger to himself or others" refers to humans. It's to answer the question if he can be let out without killing a person. I wouldn't personally be so sure about that myself - if he did this, no way is he not a threat to others.


I think there's two reasons I could see he didn't kill his own cats - one would be that he likes them - another would be that he knew he'd be caught, people would figure it out faster. Although the darkest reason would be that he wanted to hurt his stepmother without being caught, so making her scared for her own cats would work.
I knew the "others" didn't mean cats (although I wish it did!) but I also was thinking along the lines that it is possible humans could be the next target. I also agree with your logic about no harm being done to the stepmother's cats ~ it could be not wanting to get caught, make her worry, or both. Just because nothing happened to them doesn't mean that he's innocent of the other mutilations/killings. MOO

[Mimi428]

Maybe he LIKES his mom's cats (if it is his step-mom with all the cats) but (obviously) LIKES to mutilate and kills cats, so goes to get cats that he has no personal attachment to. Or, perhaps he likes his step-mom enough to not kill her cats, as that would make her sad.

<snipped>

Or maybe, like a huge percentage of kids, he hates that his parents are divorced & wishes they would get back together & resents his step-mother & his parents for the changes they have forced him to live with.

I can definitely believe he might refrain from killing his step-mother's cats - she might not let them outside, for instance.

I wonder if the judge has any appreciation for the bitter irony of the psych assessment saying this guy is not a threat to himself or 'others'.

[LILMANMAX]

I just heard a snippet of his father speaking to the news. :rolleyes:

I'm sure LE is in the habit of arresting innocent people for butchering poor defenseless animals with no evidence. :rolleyes:

Makes me barf

[Details]

I just feel sorry for the father. Right now, there's no evidence published, so it's a reasonable reaction to be ready to believe him innocent - wouldn't you do the same, for your mother, child, friend, etc.? You're not going to just jump to the conclusion they're a human monster when you haven't seen them that way, and you haven't seen any evidence to indicate the truth.

But when there is evidence, assuming it is solid - he's going to have the worst possible situation - having to either realize what a monster he has as a child, go through the bit of people trying to find ways to blame him (after all, if we can blame the parents, we don't have to confront the terrifying thought that in reality, this could be any of our children, if one little bit goes wrong with their brain!), he'll be looking back to see where he could have done anything differently, spotted the problem, etc. Or he'll be in denial - not a healthy place to be.

[Details]

I just heard a snippet of his father speaking to the news. :rolleyes:

I'm sure LE is in the habit of arresting innocent people for butchering poor defenseless animals with no evidence. :rolleyes:

Makes me barfReality is, people are arrested sometimes for crimes they did not commit. Police are human, they can and do make mistakes sometimes.

I don't think so in this case - but we shouldn't let the disgusting nature of the crime make us forget that we still have not a shred of even leaked evidence here.

[LILMANMAX]

I'm sure his father is in denial. But I thought I read in the links posted this had been investigated for some time. I think there were some people that ratted him out and also he posted some very questionable remarks on the web.

I'm sure LE have evidence on these crimes. JMO

And yes they are DISGUSTING to put it mildly.
I will leave this thread alone because I am a huge animal advocate and do not want to upset anyone.

[Mimi428]

I just feel sorry for the father. Right now, there's no evidence published, so it's a reasonable reaction to be ready to believe him innocent - wouldn't you do the same, for your mother, child, friend, etc.? You're not going to just jump to the conclusion they're a human monster when you haven't seen them that way, and you haven't seen any evidence to indicate the truth.

But when there is evidence, assuming it is solid - he's going to have the worst possible situation - having to either realize what a monster he has as a child, go through the bit of people trying to find ways to blame him (after all, if we can blame the parents, we don't have to confront the terrifying thought that in reality, this could be any of our children, if one little bit goes wrong with their brain!), he'll be looking back to see where he could have done anything differently, spotted the problem, etc. Or he'll be in denial - not a healthy place to be.

I also feel terrible for his parents. I think it is too much to expect them to condemn their only child. I would be much more surprised at this point if they were not declaring their belief in his innocence.

[Details]

I'm sure his father is in denial. But I thought I read in the links posted this had been investigated for some time. I think there were some people that ratted him out and also he posted some very questionable remarks on the web.

I'm sure LE have evidence on these crimes. JMO

And yes they are DISGUSTING to put it mildly.
I will leave this thread alone because I am a huge animal advocate and do not want to upset anyone.I'm sure they have evidence too - and we'll hear it when the time comes.

However - I'm just saying - I understand how his father would not believe that "I'm sure they must have evidence" over his own knowledge of his kid. If he is the killer - he's an evil creature who has been fooling everyone - no surprise his father would also not have seen anything to indicate this was in him. It's a common trait of serial killers - one of them was so good that when a victim of his got to the police, he convinced them to give the victim back! So I can just see why the father is standing up for his kid. His true character will show when the evidence comes out, if it is solid like we think, what the father says and does then. It must be the worst feeling in the world, to know that the child you brought into the world, nurtured for 18 years, has turned out to be a monster in human form.

[Jayne]

"silence of the lambs"..that is what I suspect here?

I love my child..but if he ever did that...I'd have to stand back and say "pull the plug"...at 18? he isn't going to change..he's only going to get worse, iMO.

Rehab? I honestly do not know the statistics for certain but it's pretty darned LOW. A person's character is supposedly developed by age 3 or something like that...SURE it can go bad..but it usually isn't going to get better...or so I've read.

How could any human being do that? To an animal? To an innocent human being? They are out there..they are scary people. And, they don't stop at cats (GMAFB..frogs in a science class? I had to do it..HATED IT...I'd never dissect ANYTHING unless I was a forensic scientist...Good Lord...what is the mentality of these people making that excuse???)

I just think of Silence of the Lambs..and that "russian" movie..where the person gutted people..what was the name of that? Absolutely scarey..almost worse than shootouts...it's torture, demonic...

JMO

J

[VC2]

I hope he does get sent away for the maximum.....never to see the light of day again.

This case has made me cry.

Me too! there are many teen murderers who i actually believe should be treated like the children they are and get a second chance (personally i think lwop for kids is insane, they are still developing, the emotional coping strategies haven't been set yet etc and they definitely can be rehabilitated no matter how horrific the murders appear on the face of them).

in THIS case though i fully believe he is a budding serial killer. He scares me far more than a boy or girl who kills their parents. Those generally are able to change, the natural "hate" for parents at that age, somehow goes so far that they think the only solution is to kill them. As their brains develop and with therapy they learn otherwise. (witness Anne Perry who committed a brutal premeditated murder of her friends mother along with the friend..neither every committed a crime again)

Someone killing 18 cats and torturing them? that is beyond dangerous, it shows his psyche has been completely twisted to the point of empathy for a living thing is gone, and if some psychologists are right when they say his stepmother loved cats, i would expect him later to start killing women who remind him of her.

It scared me completely when he got released on bail, i just pray he either is closely watched or...well it wouldn't be right to hope he commits suicide, so ..i hope that he can control himself during the period from now to trial

IMO

[VC2]

Well we don't know if this kid actually did anything yet - but if his step-mom really does have 12 -15 cats at home we know there is definitely something wrong with her! IMO :laugh: The only thing I can see the defense jump on is that all those cats at his step-mom and dad's house are still alive (if that is indeed the case.)

There is nothing wrong with 12 to 15 cats so long as they are well cared for.

I have 9 now and have had more, all strays and dumps and ferals. Most unadoptable bc of hating humans at first or in some cases an underlying chronic illness that needs care.

I would expect them to be still alive though.. Edward Kemper, a serial killer that John Douglas says is one of the more intelligent ones and that he actually likes, killed a number of people but also a dog. he cut up the dog and put his neck down the garbage disposal. He murdered all these girls, then one day he murdered his mother, cut out her larynx and put it down the garbage disposal, at which point he went for a drive and called the cops to turn himself in. He said he finally kllled the one he always wanted to, the other girls were substitutes so it was now over.

That generally is the pattern. They don't kill the ones they are most angry at be it a mother or a girl who treated them as a joke years before but they choose victims who remind them of the real target emotionally. Very very few turn themselves in though when they do manage to klll the one who really was the target.

I would expect his step mom and dads cats to be safe...thats why he went after others cats, taking his rage out on them rather than where it really was

IMO

[VC2]

That won't necessarily hold up, tho. If the defense is going to go that way, hopefully the prosecution will look up cases like the one where the fellow had killed 3 or 4 women. He lived w/his gf and she asked--why them? Why not me? (Altho seems he HAD come kind of close on occasion w/his kinky sex practices.) He told her, he killed the other women so he would NOT kill her. He had a good deal going @ her house, which would have stopped if he had killed her. So, guess that, when he had the urge to kill her for whatever reason, he went out and found a perfect stranger to do in.'

Maybe he LIKES his mom's cats (if it is his step-mom with all the cats) but (obviously) LIKES to mutilate and kills cats, so goes to get cats that he has no personal attachment to. Or, perhaps he likes his step-mom enough to not kill her cats, as that would make her sad.

Its more that he wants his step mom and dad to think he is normal and everything is hunky dory, hiding his psycopathy and his anger from them.

IMO

[VC2]

I also feel terrible for his parents. I think it is too much to expect them to condemn their only child. I would be much more surprised at this point if they were not declaring their belief in his innocence.

If they were not i would immediately wonder about a very dysfunctional home life where he was always considered a "problem" or treated as if he was there on sufferance.

Parents should stand up for their children and no parent (unless they already know it) is going to imagine theirs could do this horror.

[feather]

If police didn't have solid evidence they couldn't have held him at such a high bond, right? Isn't it $250,000? I hope Doug Weinman, the father who talked to reporters, doesn't turn into a Cindy Anthony denying his son's guilt on every newscast. His father has the means to bail his son out because he's a dentist in the Miami area, I just hope he doesn't buy his very sick son a Dream Team. This guy needs to be off the street, I can't believe he's out.


MOO

[Details]

I always thought the size of the bond had to do with the seriousness of the charges, possibly plus the liklihood that the defendant would run. It's intended to be money to ensure you show up at court.

[sunstar]

I am not able to read details on this case. As a true crime "fan" and long time trial watcher, I should be a little tough skinned. But I am not - at least not in this case.

I am horrified by these crimes. Cruelty against true innocents, i.e. animals and children, horrify and infuriate me so much that I actually physically shake. When I first saw the headline on CNN.com/crime I lost it. I have avoided this thread until today. I only came on here because I read that this filthy piece of sh*t is out on bail.

Some people may not understand this, but I feel that if this perp is found guilty of torturing and murdering these helpless innocents, he never sees the light of day again.

I cannot follow this case closely. It upsets me too much. I'll weigh in when a verdict or plea and sentence come in.

CJ
(bolding mine)

I understand completely and couldn't agree more. I just pray since he is out on bail that he doesn't get a chance to go outside near any cats...and that the neighbors all keep theirs inside, just to be safe. :sad: MOO

[Mimi428]

(bolding mine)

I understand completely and couldn't agree more. I just pray since he is out on bail that he doesn't get a chance to go outside near any cats...and that the neighbors all keep theirs inside, just to be safe. :sad: MOO

One of the things I expect to see in this case is for his attorney to do everything in his power to stall, stall, stall the proceedings. No matter what he says to the public - & no matter what his parents might say - I'm sure they all recognize how much media coverage these mutilations have had & it would be to their benefit to let that interest wane.

But stalling for time leaves this punk with a lot of time on his hands - & I expect much of that time he will be unsupervised. It would be all to easy for him to place a dish of tempting food just outside the back door when no one else is around.

[Details]

...When I first saw the headline on CNN.com/crime I lost it. I have avoided this thread until today. I only came on here because I read that this filthy piece of sh*t is out on bail.
...He's got bail, and posted it - the judge kept him until he had a shot at reviewing the initial psych bit. He's on electronic monitoring, and a shrink is continuing to evaluate him.

http://www.cbsnews.com/blogs/2009/06/17/crimesider/entry5093610.shtml?tag=contentMain;contentBody

[sunstar]

One of the things I expect to see in this case is for his attorney to do everything in his power to stall, stall, stall the proceedings. No matter what he says to the public - & no matter what his parents might say - I'm sure they all recognize how much media coverage these mutilations have had & it would be to their benefit to let that interest wane.

But stalling for time leaves this punk with a lot of time on his hands - & I expect much of that time he will be unsupervised. It would be all to easy for him to place a dish of tempting food just outside the back door when no one else is around.
That's what I'm afraid of too, but if he were to be stupid enough to do it, there would be no question about his guilt. :mad: Hopefully any cats would be smart enough not to touch the food. MOO

[Details]

Good. I hope Judge Thornton follows through on his apparent decision to begin releasing arrest and evidence documents to the public.

This case stinks to high heaven. Animal killers do NOT exist quietly among us, completely fooling all their friends and family.

I hope next Wednesday, they put up what they have, so we can all see it.

http://cbs4.com/local/Miami.Dade.Cat.2.1052238.htmlYes they do. There have been any number of cases of serial killers where the parents, friends, family, even police were all clueless, completely fooled (remember that serial killer who ate his victims - and when one escaped to the arms of the police, the serial killer convinced them to GIVE HIM BACK!)

Animal killer, serial killer, whatever - it's no shock that family or friends don't know, because that type of person tends to be very good at having a false face on for the rest of the world.


This person killed 33 cats in about a month, IIRC - who knows when that gets boring and they move on to people - even if they don't, letting more animals be tortured and killed is not acceptable if it can be prevented. They're saying maybe the police jumped the gun - but I think they had to move fast in this type of case, not leave someone who is such an obvious danger to society out and free to do what he likes.

[sunstar]

Good. I hope Judge Thornton follows through on his apparent decision to begin releasing arrest and evidence documents to the public.

This case stinks to high heaven. Animal killers do NOT exist quietly among us, completely fooling all their friends and family.

I hope next Wednesday, they put up what they have, so we can all see it.

http://cbs4.com/local/Miami.Dade.Cat.2.1052238.html
(bolding mine)

Even though his victims were human, BTK did ~ for years. It's much easier for a killer of domestic cats to go unnoticed for a couple of months. :crying: MOO

[Ninja108]

I'm sure there's solid evidence against this kid and I agree he should be locked up if he is guilty for a long time. But, in high profile cases where the public is terrified and police are pressure to make an arrest, innocent people HAVE been arrested/had their names dragged through the mud. Richard Jewell is the one that pops into my head right away. Edward Humphrey is another. He was the orginal prime suspect in the Gainsville Ripper killings in 1990 which had actually been committed by Danny Rolling. But up until Rolling was arrested and even after maybe people "knew" Humphrey was guilty. They were wrong. Also, given how many innocent people have been released from jail, the notion innocent people don't get arrested is sadly wrong. Not saying that's happened here but on thing that sadly happens in high profile cases... people get dragged through the mud

[R~O~S]

I'm sure there's solid evidence against this kid and I agree he should be locked up if he is guilty for a long time. But, in high profile cases where the public is terrified and police are pressure to make an arrest, innocent people HAVE been arrested/had their names dragged through the mud. Richard Jewell is the one that pops into my head right away. Edward Humphrey is another. He was the orginal prime suspect in the Gainsville Ripper killings in 1990 which had actually been committed by Danny Rolling. But up until Rolling was arrested and even after maybe people "knew" Humphrey was guilty. They were wrong. Also, given how many innocent people have been released from jail, the notion innocent people don't get arrested is sadly wrong. Not saying that's happened here but on thing that sadly happens in high profile cases... people get dragged through the mud


Richard Jewell was never arrested, he was convicted in the press.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Jewell

Despite having never been charged, he underwent what was considered by many to be a "trial by media" with great toll on his personal and professional life. Eventually he was exonerated completely: Eric Robert Rudolph was later found to have been the bomber.

Humphrey also was never arrested for the gainsville murders, he was tried and convicted on an unrelated charge and had a long history of mental illness. He was never interviewed by police, he was already facing charges for assaulting his grandmother. When DNA tests did not match Rollings became the primary suspect.

http://www.nytimes.com/1991/02/03/us/left-behind-in-murder-inquiry-but-still-behind-bars.html

In custody on an unrelated charge of assaulting his grandmother, he was held in lieu of $1 million bond, tried and convicted, even after she asked the authorities to drop the charge.

Does the media jump the gun and convict? They sure do.

Do the police sometimes arrest the wrong person? Yep that's why we have trials.

Do the police jump the gun and arrest people because of public pressure?

I don't think so, and your examples simply don't back you up. If they did, and didn't have the evidence to go to trial you end up without a conviction and no opportunity for a second chance due to double jeopardy.

[Ninja108]

All I was simply stating was that just because a suspect has been arrested, doesn't they're guilty. Innocent until proven guilty has long been tossed aside. And even though the DNA didn't match, there were many that kept trying to link Humphrey to Rolling right up to presenting evidence of him being a partner with Rolling to the grand jury. People can get convicted in the press like Humphrey and Jewell, often with the help of the police. Am I saying this kid is innocent? Nope, but in the same breath, more and more people who were declared "guilty", really weren't. Chances are very likely this is the cat killer who's responsible for most of the killings. But giving press conferences and other things still doesn't prove a person's guilt.

[R~O~S]

This is what you said:

But, in high profile cases where the public is terrified and police are pressure to make an arrest, innocent people HAVE been arrested/had their names dragged through the mud.

& it is not true. The police do not arrest people because of public pressure. Please do not accuse LE of the transgressions committed by the press.

There is a world of difference between questioning someone or naming them as a POI and arresting them which would mean they have probable cause for that arrest.

[sunstar]

Court considers unsealing cat killing affidavit

excerpt

"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."

http://www.miamiherald.com/news/florida/AP/story/1111237.html

[sunstar]

Affidavit in cat mutilation case will be released

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.

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

[Details]

Good, so we'll see it soon. Presumably it'll be late enough for police to build their case against any accomplices, if any (that being their excuse for withholding it).

[sunstar]

Good, so we'll see it soon. Presumably it'll be late enough for police to build their case against any accomplices, if any (that being their excuse for withholding it).

If there are any accomplices, I just pray LE can arrest them all. MOO

[Details]

Sunstar, I specifically and purposefully said animal killers.

Killers of humans do hide, and go unnoticed, that's true.

Teen killers of animals don't.

They surprise no one.I don't know about that - it was mentioned in at least one article about this case that there are other areas that have issues with animals, particularly cats, being killed - far enough away, and not the same manner, so that it's not this kid. That means there are others - not as bad as this kid, not moving as fast - but others managing to hide.

[sunstar]

I don't know about that - it was mentioned in at least one article about this case that there are other areas that have issues with animals, particularly cats, being killed - far enough away, and not the same manner, so that it's not this kid. That means there are others - not as bad as this kid, not moving as fast - but others managing to hide.

Yes, and from the article I posted tonight ~ it appears LE believe there still may be others who have not been apprehended. MOO

"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."

[sunstar]

Teen pleads not guilty to killing cats

Police say a Florida teenager who is accused of killing and mutilating 19 cats in two south Miami neighborhoods fits the profile of a sociopath, the Miami Herald reports.

Tyler Hayes Weinman, 18, has pleaded not guilty to 19 counts each of animal cruelty and improperly disposing of an animal body and four counts of burglary related to the cat deaths.

During his arraignment today in Miami-Dade County Circuit Court, prosecutors made public a 10-page arrest affidavit. Among the evidence, according to The Herald:
• 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.
Weinman's lawyer, David Macey, cautioned that the evidence is circumstantial. ''It's really important to note that there is not one single, not one single witness in there that says that Tyler Weinman touched a cat - not one witness,'' he said after the arraignment.

As we reported last month, Weinman is free on bond. He did not appear in court today; this photo is from his June 17 bail hearing.

http://blogs.usatoday.com/ondeadline/2009/07/teen-pleads-not-guilty-to-killing-cats.html

[sunstar]

Cops: Suspect in Miami-Dade cat killings a `sociopath'

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

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

The arrest affidavit, released one month after Weinman's arrest, details a circumstantial case based on the teen's suspicious late-night forays, cat claw scratches on his body and cryptic, disturbing comments about feline dissection.

The document reveals for the first time evidence used to arrest Weinman in a case that terrorized pet owners and generated national headlines. The warrant ''speaks for itself,'' said Miami-Dade prosecutor Elijah Levitt.

Weinman, however, in initial talks with police did not acknowledge killing any of the dozens of cats found mutilated across South Miami-Dade between April and June, according to the warrant. And no eyewitnesses to the killings were cited in the document.

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

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

[doradoll]

I wonder what we are going to do with this kid for the next 50 or more years. He will probably be convicted of this, but then what? A sociopathic cutter will only escalate. I don't know if there is enough therapy in the world that can get the desire out of him.

[Details]

This is why we need to work to rehabilitate, rather than merely punish and warehouse criminals. He's worse than most, and far harder to cure - probably uncurable. But the fact remains - we'll have to live with him in society when he gets out. So we need to make it as safe as possible for us to have him in society.

I'd like to think he'd go away for life - but I suspect they won't be able to get that sentence. The evidence against him is good - but IMO not solid enough to pull off anything close enough to life.

[sunstar]

Search Warrants Released In Cat Killing Case

MIAMI ― 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.

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

[BOZGAL2]

I personally hope all the perps involved receive the maximum sentence allowed. Poor defenseless creatures of God.

This case makes me :sad: & :angry:

[sunstar]

Police: Suspect in Miami-Dade cat killings wanted deal

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.

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

[Amy]

I don't understand any detective or police officer conducting even on little portion of an interview without the tape recorder going. I tho't it's been some time now where it was pretty much standard procedure to do so. I know I would, if on a jury, look suspiciously @ any testimony from a detective who did not run the tape recorder. Probably even more suspiciously if only a portion of the interview was taped. What was going on that the detective didn't want recorded? It is a CYA thing, if nothing else. If you are conducting the interview in an up and up manner, the defense attorney can't accuse you of anything, if it is recorded on tape. Well, they might try to, but the tape would certainly show what went on.

That is like cameras on the police cars. They can only be a benefit to police officers who are so many times accused of excessive force and such. If it's on tape, the officer can PROVE there was no hanky panky going on. There was a push in a large city in this state to get cameras on the police cars. There were police officers (and possibly adminstrative members of the dept) who were totally against this. I'm thinking--so, what some members of the community are complaining about just might be true. Otherwise, why resist using something that could PROVE the officers were not profiling, or were not using their authority abusively. What are they doing that they do not want independant proof of?

[Amy]

If the detectives and the kid were at the police station I can't imagine why a tape recorder wouldn't be running just as a matter of course every time. I was thinking that mybe the comments came out in the car on the way or something - but apparently not.
I too would be supicious of any LE that doesn't want cameras on the police cars - unless purchase and maintenance of them become the financial problem of a small under-budgeted force. A clear look at their budget would answer that question.

The police in question are from a very large city. While finances need to be a consideration, it would seem to me that there would be a great deal of time and money saved if there were cameras to settle a dispute about whether or not the policeman's actions were on the up and up. Either the camera would prove the officer was doing his/her job correctly and there would be no further time and money spent on the issue. Or the officer would be proven to being inappropriate or even criminal in his/her actions. Again, no further time and money would need be spent on the issue. The officer would be fired or punished or whatever would be appropriate.

[Details]

If the detectives and the kid were at the police station I can't imagine why a tape recorder wouldn't be running just as a matter of course every time. I was thinking that mybe the comments came out in the car on the way or something - but apparently not.
I too would be supicious of any LE that doesn't want cameras on the police cars - unless purchase and maintenance of them become the financial problem of a small under-budgeted force. A clear look at their budget would answer that question.I'd be looking to the budget - often penny pinchers in the burocracy will cut costs in the stupidest places - like figuring only a few interviews will take place at once, so you only need 5 tape recorders, and a long procedure to order a new one when one breaks, or to get new tapes, that takes time people don't have, falls down the priority ladder... - you end up with not so many tape recorders, and if someone has it in his desk to eventually transcribe something, it may not be visible - I can easily see the usual SNAFU stuff making it so none of the tape recorders were findable.

It's a cheap little thing - but penny pinchers look for anywhere to cut costs, and will pick the stupidest things. I worked once for one of the most successful companies in the world. I was part of their most important department. When setting up my office - they had a supply closet that had pens, post its, and tape. No scissors. No staplers. Some idiot had decided those items didn't need to be there. So I had to go run borrow scissors. Of course - I could go to the store, buy my own, and expense them - a ridiculous amount of paperwork, wasting the company's money to process the check. We weren't short of money - we were making a good profit. Penny pinchers though - they look for anywhere to save money - and sometimes cost/benefit gets warped

[Amy]

I'd be looking to the budget - often penny pinchers in the burocracy will cut costs in the stupidest places - like figuring only a few interviews will take place at once, so you only need 5 tape recorders, and a long procedure to order a new one when one breaks, or to get new tapes, that takes time people don't have, falls down the priority ladder... - you end up with not so many tape recorders, and if someone has it in his desk to eventually transcribe something, it may not be visible - I can easily see the usual SNAFU stuff making it so none of the tape recorders were findable.

It's a cheap little thing - but penny pinchers look for anywhere to cut costs, and will pick the stupidest things. I worked once for one of the most successful companies in the world. I was part of their most important department. When setting up my office - they had a supply closet that had pens, post its, and tape. No scissors. No staplers. Some idiot had decided those items didn't need to be there. So I had to go run borrow scissors. Of course - I could go to the store, buy my own, and expense them - a ridiculous amount of paperwork, wasting the company's money to process the check. We weren't short of money - we were making a good profit. Penny pinchers though - they look for anywhere to save money - and sometimes cost/benefit gets warped

People in charge of ordering the supplies seem to not have a clue about what the worker bees need. Even if they know you need the scissors, they either get tiny manicure scissors or huge hedge trimmers, regardless of what you need. Some of the things we have gotten the past year were useless to us. Asked why this was purchased--"because they got a Deal on it." I have several times reminded my boss that it was a waste of money, because it is not used, no matter how good a deal it was.

[sunstar]

But don't you just wish that LE had tiny working tape recorders tatooed on them - so they would never ever miss the perp's comments before lawyering up.

I'm really surprised too that it wasn't recorded. And, I thought videotaping an interview was standard nowdays. And I think a lot of people will be very upset with LE if his statements get thrown out or if a jury doesn't believe he said what he did because it wasn't recorded. :cursing: MOO

[Jester]

I'm sure there's solid evidence against this kid and I agree he should be locked up if he is guilty for a long time. But, in high profile cases where the public is terrified and police are pressure to make an arrest, innocent people HAVE been arrested/had their names dragged through the mud. Richard Jewell is the one that pops into my head right away. Edward Humphrey is another. He was the orginal prime suspect in the Gainsville Ripper killings in 1990 which had actually been committed by Danny Rolling. But up until Rolling was arrested and even after maybe people "knew" Humphrey was guilty. They were wrong. Also, given how many innocent people have been released from jail, the notion innocent people don't get arrested is sadly wrong. Not saying that's happened here but on thing that sadly happens in high profile cases... people get dragged through the mud

The clincher for me is that cats near his mother's house were disappearing and, when he was at his dad's house, cats in that area were disappearing. The problem moved when he moved. Most likely guilty.

If he is guilty of hurting cats like it is said, then I think he should never be released. He sounds like a very dangerous person if we are to believe the theory that some serial murderers start with mutilating animals ... and they enjoy it so much they graduate to people - true sociopath, in my opinion.

[Jester]

All I was simply stating was that just because a suspect has been arrested, doesn't they're guilty. Innocent until proven guilty has long been tossed aside. And even though the DNA didn't match, there were many that kept trying to link Humphrey to Rolling right up to presenting evidence of him being a partner with Rolling to the grand jury. People can get convicted in the press like Humphrey and Jewell, often with the help of the police. Am I saying this kid is innocent? Nope, but in the same breath, more and more people who were declared "guilty", really weren't. Chances are very likely this is the cat killer who's responsible for most of the killings. But giving press conferences and other things still doesn't prove a person's guilt.

Flipping a coin gives heads or tails; innocent or guilty. There is substantial evidence that he committed the cat mutilations. It's not exactly like he was just some guy walking down the street minding his own business. He may be innocent, but he is also the most likely suspect.

This has nothing to do with persecution, false imprisonment, and false conviction. If you were to argue that he is innocent, there has to be more reason than it's possible ... like the flip of a coin. Of course it's possible, but is it realistic?

[Jester]

I think many serial killers started off mutilating animals, not all that mutilating animals become serial killers, look at George W, I definitely think he should be watched and put on a list if guilty, also get treatment as well as doing time, we can't put him in prison for life, that just wont happen, so we need to make sure we not only punish the crime, but try to prevent future crimes as well imo

True, animal mutilators may not graduate to people mutilators, but there are plenty of people mutilators that practiced on animals. I wouldn't want to take a chance with this guy.

[R~O~S]

True, animal mutilators may not graduate to people mutilators, but there are plenty of people mutilators that practiced on animals. I wouldn't want to take a chance with this guy.

The correlation between abuse of animals and not only serial killers, but violent crime in general cannot be denied. It's been widely studied and substantiated.

http://www.hsus.org/hsus_field/first_strike_the_connection_between_animal_cruelty _and_human_violence/children_and_animal_cruelty_what_parents_should_kn ow.html

Children and Animal Cruelty: What Parents Should Know

http://www.hsus.org/hsus_field/first_strike_the_connection_between_animal_cruelty _and_human_violence/animal_cruelty_and_family_violence_making_the_conn ection/

Animal Cruelty and Family Violence: Making the Connection

http://cats.about.com/cs/crueltyconnection/a/cruelty.htm

With our increased awareness, we have also discovered that there is a terribly frightening connection between cruelty toward animals as children and violent crimes toward humans later in life. The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) has this to say:

Researchers, as well as the FBI and other law enforcement agencies nationwide, have linked animal cruelty to domestic violence, child abuse, serial killings, and to the recent rash of killings by school-age children, according to Dr. Randall Lockwood, vice president of Training Initiatives for The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS).

[Adalena935]

States nationwide need to make the punishment more stringent for crimes against animals. I wish they would. mo

[BOZGAL2]

True, animal mutilators may not graduate to people mutilators, but there are plenty of people mutilators that practiced on animals. I wouldn't want to take a chance with this guy.

This perp definately has a taste of/for the thrill of the kill. JMO

[sunstar]

Affidavit in Support of Arrest Warrant

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

Warning ~ graphic details :flamemad: