WAUPACA, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – The prosecution rested Wednesday in the murder case against William Zelenski, who is accused of killing Ryelee Manente-Powell for stealing his exotic pets.
Zelenski is charged with first-degree intentional homicide for the Oct. 19, 2020, shooting. The state alleges Zelenski put the gun against Manente-Powell’s torso and purposefully fired. The defense claims the shooting was an accident caused when Manente-Powell reached for the gun.
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.
Defense attorney Tim Hogan did not specifically answer the judge’s question of Zelenski will take the stand. The defense did call other witnesses Wednesday morning, and the issue of Zelenski taking the stand will be addressed at a later time.
According to the criminal complaint, the 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.
