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Teen accused of cat killings released on bond

A judge in Miami has released from jail a teenager accused of more than a dozen cat killings.
Image: Tyler Weinman
"He does not appear at risk of harming himself or others,'' a judge says of Tyler Weinman.AP
/ Source: The Associated Press

A judge in Miami has released from jail a teenager accused of more than a dozen cat killings.

Tyler Hayes Weinman had already posted bond before Wednesday's hearing, but the judge wanted to review the 18-year-old's psychiatric evaluation.

Miami-Dade Circuit Judge John Thornton freed Weinman after a brief hearing, saying the teen was "competent" to be released under electronic monitoring pending trial. Thornton said Weinman would be allowed to attend the counseling recommended by a doctor.

''The psychiatric evaluation indicates he is competent to proceed. He does not appear at risk of harming himself or others,'' Thornton said.

Weinman's father told TV reporters he is "absolutely sure" his son is innocent.

Weinman is accused of a string of cat mutilation killings that terrorized two suburban Miami communities for about a month. As he awaits a July 6 arraignment, Weinman will be placed under house arrest and monitored via an electronic ankle bracelet.