Taking the Stand: William Zelenski (A&E Thursday January 11, 2024)

Prepare for a gripping season three premiere of Taking the Stand on A&E, airing on Thursday, January 11, 2024, at 9:00 pm.

In this episode, the focus is on the controversial case of exotic animal dealer William “Wild Bill” Zelenski. Zelenski takes the stand to plead his innocence after being accused of brutally murdering his girlfriend’s 18-year-old son. The young man allegedly stole $27,000 worth of venomous and exotic reptiles from Zelenski.

The William Zelenski case shook the community as he was convicted and sentenced to life in prison for the murder of his girlfriend’s son, Ryelee Manente-Powell. Zelenski, known for his involvement in the exotic animal business, reported a burglary at his home and suspected that Manente-Powell and his friend were responsible for the theft. A confrontation between Zelenski, his girlfriend, and Manente-Powell turned deadly, as a witness heard a gunshot shortly after. Manente-Powell was tragically found dead, and Zelenski faced first-degree intentional homicide charges.

Throughout the trial, the prosecution presented evidence portraying Zelenski as a manipulative womanizer with a drug addiction to methamphetamine. They claimed that Zelenski used his past position as a police officer to exert control over others. The prosecution also revealed incidents of abuse towards his wife and others in the community, including a restraining order due to his mistreatment of a former employee.

On the other hand, the defense argued that Zelenski did not have the intention to kill Manente-Powell. They claimed that the shooting was accidental during a struggle over the gun. Zelenski himself testified that he did not intend to harm or kill Manente-Powell that fateful night.

Ultimately, the jury found Zelenski guilty of first-degree intentional homicide, carrying a mandatory life prison term. The judge will decide when Zelenski is eligible for parole during a sentencing hearing.

Tune in to A&E on Thursday, January 11, 2024, at 9:00 pm to follow the riveting case of William “Wild Bill” Zelenski as he takes the stand in the season three premiere of Taking the Stand. Witness the courtroom drama and see how the trial unfolds in this captivating true crime series.

Featured image credit: A&E