Breaking News: Taylor Schabusiness Sentenced to Life in Prison for Grisly Murder and Dismemberment Case

GREEN BAY, Wis. (WBAY) – Taylor Schabusiness, a convicted murderer, was sentenced by a Brown County judge to life in prison without the possibility of release on extended supervision. This decision was made in order to ensure that she remains behind bars. In addition, the judge imposed two consecutive sentences, adding 18 years to her sentence, for the crimes of dismembering and sexually assaulting her victim.

During her court appearance, Schabusiness was seen wearing a spit hood as she faced the sentencing for the murder and dismemberment of a Green Bay man in his mother’s home.

Schabusiness was convicted of first-degree intentional homicide, mutilation of a corpse, and third-degree sexual assault in the death of Shad Thyrion. Despite her insanity defense, the jury rejected it.

While the homicide charge already carries a life sentence, the defense had fought for the inclusion of extended supervision or parole. However, the judge determined that Schabusiness should remain in prison for life, given the severity of her crimes.

During the sentencing, Schabusiness’s defense attorney, Christopher Froelich, described her as “not a monster” and emphasized the potential for rehabilitation at her age of 25. However, when given the opportunity to speak before the judge’s decision, Schabusiness simply replied, “No, there isn’t.”

The judge carefully considered testimonials, arguments about Schabusiness’s mental health and drug problems, and the need to protect the community. Ultimately, he condemned her actions as a crime that “offends human decency” and “offends human dignity.”

While acknowledging Schabusiness’s mental health and drug issues as mitigating circumstances, the judge emphasized the importance of personal responsibility. The defense presented character witnesses, including Schabusiness’s grandmother and father, who highlighted her positive qualities and requested a chance for parole in the future.

The court also heard from a pharmacology expert who discussed the harmful effects of chronic drug use, particularly high doses of methamphetamine, on mental health. The defense aimed to establish a connection between Schabusiness’s drug use and her actions.

In contrast, the prosecution argued against parole, citing Schabusiness’s lack of remorse and previous drug-fueled incidents. They stressed the importance of keeping her in prison for life to protect society.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.

ORIGINAL REPORT

The attorney for Taylor Schabusiness, the Green Bay woman convicted of killing and dismembering a man, has withdrawn his motion to delay her sentencing. Schabusiness was found guilty of multiple charges, including first-degree intentional homicide and mutilation of a corpse.

Originally pleading not guilty by reason of mental disease or defect, Schabusiness’s defense was unsuccessful with their insanity defense. The first-degree intentional homicide charge already carries a life sentence.

Despite the previous motion to delay sentencing, Schabusiness’s attorney met with her and reviewed the pre-sentencing investigation report. The defense also conducted their own investigation.

At the sentencing hearing, Schabusiness’s attorney presented several photos of her with family members, highlighting her positive relationships. They also requested that family members from Texas be allowed to attend the hearing via Zoom.

The sentencing is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday.

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