Overview

• Deputies say the 61-year-old admitted he slit the birds’ necks, let them bleed out, and cooked them in a frying pan.
• An affidavit states he left a letter in his neighbor’s mailbox confessing to the killings and warning he would continue if she kept feeding the birds.
• While being transported to jail, he allegedly said he would kill all remaining peacocks upon release, and authorities have not disclosed the fate of the other birds.
• He faces a third-degree felony count under Florida’s aggravated animal-cruelty statute, and recent enhancements for repeat offenders could apply if he is convicted.
• Court filings show he is held at the Land O’ Lakes Detention Center with a public defender appointed, his next court date is not listed, and records note more than 40 prior charges in Pasco County.