WAUPACA, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – William Zelenski took the stand in his own defense Wednesday, getting emotional as he testified he did not intend to kill Ryelee Manente-Powell for stealing his exotic pets.
Zelenski faces a count of first-degree intentional homicide for the Oct. 19, 2020 shooting.
Prosecutors rested their case Wednesday morning. After several other witnesses, Zelenski took the stand Wednesday afternoon.
Defense attorney Tim Hogan immediately asked Zelenski about that night:
Hogan: “On Oct. 19 of 2020, what was your intent?”
Zelenski: “My intent was to find and return my animals safely home.”
Hogan: “Were you looking to find Ryelee?”
Zelenski: “No.”
Hogan: “Were you looking to hurt Ryelee?”
Zelenski: “Absolutely not.”
Hogan: “Did you intend to shoot Ryelee that night?”
Zelenski: “No.”
Hogan: “Did you intend to kill Ryelee that night?”
Zelenski: “Absolutely not.”
Hogan: “Did you want Ryelee to die?”
Zelenski: “No.”
Zelenski’s testimony then focused on his history with reptiles and exotic animals, as well as his police background. Cross-examination by prosecutors is yet to come.
Before Zelenski took the stand, Judge Raymond Huber denied the defense request for directed verdict of not guilty Wednesday, saying there was enough evidence the jury could reasonably convict Zelenski.
According to the criminal complaint, Manente-Powell and Ashton Tody stole multiple animals, including a crocodile, bearded lizard, snakes, and other items. Tody was convicted on placed on probation for three years.
Manente-Powell’s mother, Tiffany Powell, was sentenced to 15 years in prison for her role in the sequence of events leading up to the murder, including pointing a gun at her son while he and Zelenski faced off in a Waupaca street.
