In probably one of the most gruesome murder cases in many years, MMA fighter Jarrod Wyatt was sentenced to 50 years in prison after pleading guilty to first degree murder and mayhem charges.
He will not be eligible for parole until 2062.
The victim was Wyatt’s 21 year old sparring partner, 21-year-old Taylor Powell.
When police arrived on March 21, 2010 at a home at the mouth of the Klamath River, they found Wyatt naked and covered in blood.
He told the officers, “I killed him,” and said he had cut out Powell’s heart and tongue, according to court documents.
The officers found Powell’s body on the couch. His chest was cut open, and his heart, tongue and the skin of his face were gone, court records said. His heart was found charred in a wood-burning stove. An autopsy determined the organs had been removed while Powell was still alive, the documents said.
Witnesses said the two ingested hallucinogenic mushrooms before the attack and believed they were involved in a struggle between God and the devil. Wyatt was reportedly convinced that the world was about to end and that Powell was the devil.
When anyone tries to tell you that “trying” drugs will not lead to bad consequences you can mention this story to them. Ingesting mind altering drugs can cause you to do things that you could never imagine doing if not under the influence of those drugs. When people take drugs who are also professionals in violent sports such as the men who were involved here you have all the ingredients for a horrible outcome.
In 35 years of practicing law I never remember a case with such gruesome facts. Wallin and Klarich has represented those that find themselves accused of serious crimes, such as murder and mayhem for over 30 years. As you can see from this case, the consequences of being found guilty of murder or mayhem can lead to you being in prison for the rest of your life. If you or a loved one find themselves accused of murder or any other serious felony call us for a free consultation at 888-280-6839. We will be there when you call.
