WAUPACA, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – More than two years after William Zelenski allegedly killed Ryelee Manete-Powell for stealing exotic pets, a June 19 trial has been set.
On Oct. 19, 2020, Zelenski, 46, allegedly shot and killed Manente-Powell, 18, who Zelenski believed had stolen his multiple exotic animals, worth more than $27,000, a few days before.
Since being charged, there have been a series of status conferences and other hearings, but no trial date on the charge of first-degree intentional homicide had been set until this week.
A motions hearing is scheduled for May 2, although court records do not show any pending motions.
Manante-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.
After the shooting, Zelenski called 911, saying Manente-Powell attacked him, and then Zelenski shot him.
According to the criminal complaint, the Manente-Powell and Ashton Tody stole multiple animals, including a crocodile, bearded lizard, snakes, and other items.
Tody will be sentenced Feb. 28 for his role in the thefts.
