Wisconsin Mother Convicted in Shocking Murder Case Advocates for Possibility of Parole
In a case that has sent shockwaves throughout Wisconsin, Taylor Schabusiness, a 25-year-old mother convicted in a gruesome murder involving methamphetamine, decapitation, and sexual assault, is now seeking the possibility of parole, a plea supported by her attorney, Christopher T. Froelich of the Froelich Law Group based in Green Bay.
Schabusiness received a life sentence without the possibility of parole for her role in the February 2022 murder of 24-year-old Shad Thyrion. Additionally, she was sentenced to 7½ years for mutilating a corpse and three years for third-degree sexual assault.
Froelich has taken up Schabusiness’s case, emphasizing that she deserves a chance at parole after years of therapy and counseling. He is actively working on an appeal for his client, who had previously clashed with her former lawyer, Quinn Jolly, in court.
The use of a spit hood during Schabusiness’s trial raised questions about its purpose. Some speculated it was to hide her facial expressions, but Froelich explained that there were issues at the jail that prompted its use.
Schabusiness’s behavior in court has raised concerns about her mental competence. She has displayed unusual reactions, including smiling, smirking, and even falling asleep, behaviors that psychologists called by the defense argue indicate her inability to stand trial.
Dr. Diane Lytton, one of the defense’s expert witnesses, described Schabusiness as exhibiting psychotic behavior, citing her odd grinning when discussing the crimes.
During discussions about showing jurors photos of her decapitated former lover’s head, Schabusiness burst into laughter. She also laughed when the jury rejected her insanity plea, leading to her conviction on July 27.
Froelich’s efforts to secure a mistrial have been met with questions about the judge’s involvement and whether another judicial officer should be considered. The attorney also questioned one of the charges, arguing that it should be considered mutilation of a corpse rather than sexual assault, given the victim’s death.
Despite the heinous nature of Schabusiness’s crimes, the victim’s father, Michael Thyrion, expressed forgiveness toward her, emphasizing that everyone makes bad choices. Schabusiness’s family members, who testified on her behalf, were left disheartened by the sentencing, but they continue to support her.
Arthur Coronado, Schabusiness’s father, appeared in court in an orange jumpsuit and shackles, facing his own past conviction for sexual assault of a child. Froelich pointed out that Schabusiness had a family that cared about her and argued for giving her a chance at rehabilitation.
To shed light on Schabusiness’s humanity, Froelich presented photos of her from before her descent into meth addiction, contrasting them with gruesome autopsy and crime scene images. He highlighted that these earlier photos reveal the person she once was, a young lady who deserved a chance at happiness.
A photograph of Schabusiness smiling beside a picture of infamous serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer, known for his gruesome killings and dismemberments, was also submitted into evidence. Froelich, who had a law school connection to Dahmer’s representation, humorously remarked, “[Now], I have the lady Dahmer.”
The case remains a disturbing and unsettling chapter in Wisconsin’s legal history, raising questions about the complex issues surrounding mental health, criminal justice, and the possibility of rehabilitation.