25-year-old Taylor Schabusiness has been convicted of causing the death of and subsequently dismembering her partner, Shad Thyrion.
The community seeks to understand the reasons behind her actions. Were they influenced by mental health issues, the adverse effects of meth, or a combination of both? Additionally, our coverage will delve into how methamphetamine can alter sexual behavior.
Join us in exploring this case further and understanding the broader implications of meth addiction on behavior.
Disclaimer: This article delves into graphic and potentially distressing subjects.
We urge readers to proceed cautiously and consider their comfort and well-being when engaging with the content.
Those sensitive to explicit or traumatic material might find some sections challenging to read.
Photo from Inside Edition article.
Who is Taylor Schabusiness?
Born Taylor Denise Coronado in Chicago in November 1997, Taylor Schabusiness grew up with her parents, Marla and Arturo Coronado.
The family relocated to Wisconsin during her fourth-grade year, and she attended Howard-Suamico schools.
Though records don’t confirm, it remains unclear if she graduated from Bay Port.
She conveyed to her legal team the tragic loss of her mother, Marla, in 2009, due to complications from cirrhosis and alcoholism.
Her father remains present in her life, and she retains familial ties in the Green Bay vicinity.
In 2018, she made a significant personal change, legally altering her name from Taylor Denise Coronado to Taylor Denise Schabusiness, as detailed in court documents Heavy accessed.
Over the years, her residences spanned several locations, including San Antonio, Houston, Temple, Cotulla in Texas, and Suamico, Wisconsin.
At the age of 25, Taylor’s life took significant turns.
She’s a married woman and became a mother in 2021.
Interestingly, her child carries a different surname and is currently in the care of his paternal grandparents in Texas.
Adding complexity to the family dynamic, her husband, Warren Schabow, faces incarceration in federal prison over methamphetamine charges, information derived from legal documents presented by Court TV.
Taylor, now in the spotlight, is held on multiple grave accusations.
The charges against her comprise first-degree intentional homicide, corpse mutilation, and third-degree sexual assault, all linked to Thyrion’s tragic demise.
With a potential life sentence hanging over her, she is confined to the Brown County Jail, with her bail marked at $2 million in cash.
But Taylor’s run-ins with the law aren’t new.
She’s been previously involved in incidents, including eluding the police and obstructing an officer.
Notably, on January 4th, digital court records show she received a three-month jail sentence with provisions for work release.
The ambiguity remains on whether she was on this work release during the fateful day of Thyrion’s death on February 23rd.
In contrast, an older legal dispute shows an Eastman Avenue address, which intriguingly matches the police’s location report of her capture following the chilling discovery of Thyrion’s body.
*Photo from FindAGrave
Who was Shad Thyrion?
Shad Thyrion, a 24-year-old former student of the Howard-Suamico School District, attended Bay Port High School from 2010 to 2015.
However, records do not confirm his graduation from Bay Port.
An obituary released on the Green Bay Press-Gazette’s digital platform identifies Tara Pakanich and Michael Thyrion as his parents.
Shad had professional ties with his father and grandfather, collaborating with them in the family business ventures.
The commemorative note remembers Shad as someone with a zest for camping and playing games who cherished time spent with family.
He was described as a compassionate individual who often prioritized others above himself.
His artistic side was evident in his love for wood carving.
Yet, behind these positive attributes lay challenges.
Shad wrestled with the shackles of substance abuse.
In his quest for escape, he found himself intertwined with Taylor, a woman burdened with a criminal past and a disturbing interest in serial killers (she herself admitted her obsession with Jeffrey Dahmer).
Their tumultuous relationship, marked by fervent encounters and mutual substance consumption, intensified Shad’s struggle.
Tragically, this association led to a grim outcome.
Taylor’s actions culminated in an unthinkable act of violence against Shad.
The aftermath of this dark episode left a grieving mother confronting the stark reality of her son’s untimely demise, searching for solace amidst overwhelming sorrow.
*Photo from Konnie Moments article.
Details of The Crime
As stated in the criminal record, the sequence of events leading to the unearthing of Thyrion’s remains is somewhat vague.
Based on The Official Report:
**Proceed reading with Caution**
Around 9:30 p.m. on Feb. 21, Schabusiness collected Thyrion, as the victim’s mother recounted.
Schabusiness narrated how she, Thyrion, and another unnamed individual procured some drugs and headed to an apartment on Eastman Avenue.
Here, they consumed marijuana together, and subsequently, both Schabusiness and Thyrion indulged in methamphetamine.
After her roommate departed, she shared that she and Thyrion administered trazodone, an antidepressant.
Later, the pair transitioned to Thyrion’s maternal home, settling in the basement.
The duo reportedly spent most, if not all, of Feb. 22 in this location.
Per the criminal report, the victim’s mother said she wasn’t at home during daylight hours on Feb. 22.
Schabusiness described a notable event to the authorities.
Shortly after entering the basement, Thyrion presented two metallic chains – one he wore and another he handed to her.
She likened these chains to dog chokers.
Elaborating further, she revealed that they had previously incorporated strangulation into their intimate encounters.
In a particularly unsettling account, she detailed how, with Thyrion lying prone, she became frenzied, strangling him using the chain, relentless even as he bled and turned blue.
She even expressed a perverse satisfaction in her actions, stating to Det. David Graf, “Ya, I liked it,” which he deduced to refer to the act of strangulation, based on the official record.
According to her confession, she persisted until he ceased to breathe, the report concludes.
What Followed The Incident?
According to her statement to the police, Schabusiness disturbingly (sexually) engaged with Thyrion’s body for several hours, leading to the charge of sexual assault.
Subsequently, she used kitchen knives to sever and disassemble Thyrion’s body, intending to transport all the remains.
However, she expressed a lack of motivation to complete this task.
The discovery of various body fragments was made in a van and the basement, housed in assorted containers like plastic bags, a cardboard parcel, a plastic pail, and a storage box, as documented in the report.
How Did The Truth Come to Light?
During the early hours of Feb. 23, between 2:30 and 3 a.m., Thyrion’s mother reported being roused by the loud sound of a storm door shutting and the distant hum of a vehicle.
Upon investigation, she noticed an illuminated basement.
Venturing there, she stumbled upon a harrowing sight: a bucket containing her son’s severed head, as detailed in the official report.
Where Had Schabusiness Gone During This Time?
Schabusiness removed an electronic monitoring bracelet hours before the murder, according to the sheriff’s department.
A warrant was issued for her arrest, but she was not located before allegedly killing Thyrion.
She had exited the residence earlier, though the exact timeline remains unspecified in the criminal documentation.
That morning, Schabusiness was apprehended at an Eastman Avenue residence on the city’s eastern side, although the precise timing is not mentioned.
As per the detective’s statement in the criminal record, Schabusiness currently resides with a co-inhabitant on Eastman Avenue.
However, her registered address is on Moraine Way, situated in a condominium-laden area on the city’s western quadrant.
Did Schabusiness Shed Light on Her Motives Behind Thyrion’s Demise?
Her responses were both vague and clear.
When probed by Graf about the unfolding of events, Schabusiness retorted, suggesting the uncertainty of her memories, hinting at a blackout during the act of strangulation on Thyrion.
Yet, as the report outlines, she recalled regaining her senses before Thyrion’s final moments and her act of mutilation.
Subsequently, she confessed to indulging in a substance colloquially termed “the bitch.”
Graf, however, verified the substance as methamphetamine.
From her admissions, as captured in the official documentation, it seemed the lethal act wasn’t premeditated.
The document highlights Schabusiness’s statement from Graf’s record, suggesting a point of no return during her strangulation act: she felt she was “already this far” and continued with her actions.
Furthermore, as detailed in the report, she expressed deriving a perverse pleasure from the act, even posing a rhetorical question to the detectives, inquiring if they ever felt an overwhelming love for something to the point of causing its end.
*Photo from Green Bay Press-Gazette article.
Court Proceedings
During the initial stage of her trial, Taylor Schabusiness was convicted on all charges.
In the subsequent “responsibility phase,” a unanimous jury determined she was not suffering from a mental illness or defect when the crime occurred.
The sentencing is slated for Sept. 26.
At the age of 25, Schabusiness faced charges of first-degree intentional homicide, mutilation of a corpse, and third-degree sexual assault concerning Shad Thyrion’s death in February 2022.
She entered a plea of not guilty on the grounds of insanity.
It was stated by officials that, while under the influence of methamphetamine, Schabusiness choked Thyrion with a chain during an intimate encounter.
Subsequently, in police interrogations accepted as trial evidence, she confessed to violating and mutilating his remains.
Schabusiness’s legal representatives tried to exclude her admissions made at her arrest, contending she was impaired due to drugs.
In a June ruling, a judge declined the defense’s motion to dismiss the sexual assault charge because the victim was deceased and specific body parts had been dismembered.
Throughout the guilt-determining stage of the trial, the defense did not present arguments or evidence regarding the particulars of Schabusiness’s plea of insanity.
However, in earlier sessions, lawyers and medical experts highlighted her history of drug consumption, especially methamphetamine.
*Photo from Fox 11 News article.
Mental Health Evaluation
Schabusiness spent her early years under her parents’ care until relocation to Wisconsin during her fourth-grade year.
Throughout her schooling in Wisconsin, she remained in public institutions.
However, by her final year, an altercation with a peer led to her expulsion.
Consequently, she relocated to Texas, resuming her education under the guardianship of her paternal grandparents.
Court records after her detainment highlighted Schabusiness’ initial experiences with mental health care in the 7th grade, mainly addressing issues concerning attention, behavior, and focus at school.
At this juncture, medications were introduced to manage what were believed to be symptoms of ADD or ADHD.
Her legal representation further stated that Schabusiness had been prescribed various medications, including a mood stabilizer, an antidepressant, and an antipsychotic, which she ceased taking at 18.
Drawing from statements provided by her legal team, Schabusiness was admitted to a medical facility following a suicide attempt between April and May of 2021.
Subsequent evaluations diagnosed her with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and bipolar disorder.
These newer diagnoses accompanied her existing medical records indicating severe depression, ADD, and ADHD.
*Photo from Law & Crime article.
Previous Criminal Records
A 2020 criminal case involving Schabusiness sheds light on peculiar behavior suggestive of drug use.
Schabusiness was accused of assaulting a law enforcement officer and resisting arrest in the complaint.
This arose after she was spotted wandering mid-street, exhibiting strange behavior.
Officers were dispatched to the vicinity following reports of a woman, presumably under drug influence, persistently knocking on residents’ doors.
Upon questioning her, she ambiguously conveyed being on a “different planet.”
Further, Schabusiness claimed to have recently injected drugs, displaying injection marks on her arms as evidence.
During this particular episode, Schabusiness is said to have reacted aggressively, aiming kicks at officers attempting to keep her away from moving vehicles.
Considering Schabusiness’ prior conviction for assault, she holds the label of a “repeat offender” during the sentencing stage of her trial.
She now stands at the threshold of a potential life sentence.
*Photo from WWMT article.
Incident in Courtroom
During a pre-trial hearing, Taylor Schabusiness exhibited aggressive behavior toward her counsel.
On February 14, 2023, as attorney Quin Jolly appeared in court alongside Schabusiness, Judge Thomas J. Walsh reluctantly rescheduled Schabusiness’s trial from March 6 to May 15.
This change was in response to Jolly’s appeal for added preparation time, specifically to allow a defense expert to assess and validate his client’s competence, as the Law & Crime Network outlined.
This postponement didn’t sit well with Schabusiness, who seemingly held her lawyer responsible for the delay.
According to the Green Bay Press-Gazette, she elbowed Jolly on his head in a sudden outburst.
A swift intervention by a Brown County sheriff’s officer subdued her.
The immediate aftermath saw the courtroom being vacated momentarily to de-escalate the situation.
After a brief 10-minute hiatus, court proceedings resumed.
Then, Jolly communicated his intent to Judge Walsh about filing a motion to withdraw from representing Schabusiness.
*Photo from Green Bay Press-Gazette article.
What’s Next For Taylor Schabusiness?
After being convicted for the heinous act of murdering and dismembering Shad Thyrion, Taylor Schabusiness is staring down the barrel of an obligatory life sentence.
Having sifted through four days of intense testimonies, the jury found her unequivocally guilty.
Furthermore, they dismissed her plea of insanity.
Now, with convictions of murder, mutilation of a corpse, and sexual assault to her name, Schabusiness is confined to the Brown County Jail, anticipating her forthcoming sentencing scheduled for September 26th.
While the 25-year-old is bound to receive a life sentence, Judge Thomas Walsh can determine her eligibility for parole at the sentencing.
Meth’s Role in this Tragedy
Methamphetamine has profound neurological and physiological impacts. Acute intoxication can result in heightened paranoia, aggression, hallucinations, and impaired judgment. Over time, chronic use can lead to cognitive deficits, severe dental problems, weight loss, and skin sores.
From a behavioral perspective, meth can make users more impulsive and less capable of assessing risks or foreseeing the consequences of their actions. When combined with heightened aggression or paranoia, this impulsiveness can escalate confrontations or lead to violent acts that might not occur in the absence of the drug.
Taylor Schabusiness was clearly under the influence of meth during the sexual encounter with Shad Thyrion, which undoubtedly exacerbated her emotional state, impaired her judgment, and potentially contributed to the violent nature of the incident.
However, it’s essential to note that while meth can influence behavior, individual accountability and other situational factors always play a significant role in any criminal act.
Methamphetamine: Understanding the Substance
Definition and Classification
Methamphetamine is a synthetic drug classified as a central nervous system stimulant.
It belongs to the amphetamine family and is chemically similar to amphetamine, which is used for medical purposes like treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy.
However, methamphetamine is typically produced and used illicitly, often resulting in more potent and dangerous effects.
Mechanisms of Action: How Meth Affects the Central Nervous System
Methamphetamine’s effects stem from its ability to increase the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine in the brain.
This neurotransmitter is associated with pleasure, reward, and motivation.
The surge in dopamine levels contributes to the intense feelings of euphoria and increased energy commonly experienced by meth users.
However, prolonged use can lead to disruptions in the brain’s reward system and other neurotransmitter systems, potentially contributing to addictive behavior and altered decision-making.
Short-Term and Long-Term Effects of Meth Use on Behavior and Cognition
In the short term, methamphetamine use can result in increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, decreased appetite, and a heightened sense of confidence.
However, the prolonged use of meth can lead to a host of negative effects, including anxiety, paranoia, aggression, and cognitive deficits.
These alterations in behavior and cognition play a crucial role in understanding the potential link between meth use and sexually violent behavior.
Sexually Violent Behavior: Definitions and Context
Defining Sexually Violent Behavior and its Various Forms
Sexually violent behavior encompasses a range of actions involving force, coercion, or intimidation to engage in non-consensual sexual acts.
These acts can include rape, sexual assault, and harassment. Understanding the different forms of sexually violent behavior is essential for analyzing any potential connection to methamphetamine use.
It is clear that in this story, Taylor Schabusiness performed non-consentual acts on Shad Thyroin including his murder and dismemberment, for which she was found guilty.
Factors Contributing to Sexually Violent Behavior
Sexually violent behavior is influenced by a complex interplay of psychological, sociocultural, and individual factors.
These factors may include a history of trauma, distorted perceptions of power and control, social norms, and individual attitudes toward gender and sexuality.
Taylor Schabusiness had a host of factors that led her to be at high risk for drug use and violent behavior.
Addressing the Complexity of the Relationship Between Substance Abuse and Violence
The relationship between substance abuse, including methamphetamine use, and violent behavior is multifaceted.
While substances like meth can potentially lower inhibitions and impair decision-making, it’s crucial to recognize that not all individuals who use drugs will exhibit violent tendencies.
Additionally, underlying mental health issues and environmental factors can significantly contribute to a person’s likelihood of engaging in sexually violent behavior.
Taylor Schabusiness had a history of mental health issues, and documentation was presented at her trial that she was hearing voices.
However, it seems that the voices coincided with meth use and subsided as she was abstintent from the drug.
The Complex Connection: Meth Use and Sexually Violent Behavior
Impaired Judgment and Disinhibition
Methamphetamine’s impact on the brain can lead to impaired judgment and lowered inhibitions.
This can result in a reduced ability to consider the consequences of one’s actions, making individuals more likely to engage in risky and aggressive behaviors, including sexually violent acts.
Agitation, Aggression, and Violence
The heightened state of agitation and aggression induced by meth use can significantly manifest violent behavior.
Individuals under the influence of methamphetamine may be more prone to react aggressively to perceived threats or stimuli, which can escalate into violent actions, including sexually violent acts.
Psychological Effects: Paranoia, Delusions, and Altered Perceptions
Methamphetamine use can lead to feelings of paranoia, delusions, and altered perceptions of reality. These cognitive distortions can contribute to misinterpreting social cues, intentions, and motivations, potentially leading to aggressive or violent behavior.
Hypersexuality and Risky Sexual Behavior
Methamphetamine use is sometimes associated with hypersexuality—a heightened desire for sexual activity. This intense focus on sexual gratification can lead to impulsive and risky sexual behaviors, which may include non-consensual or coercive acts.
Loss of Empathy and Moral Compass
Methamphetamine use can diminish a person’s ability to empathize with others and understand their emotions. This reduced empathy can lead to a lack of consideration for the feelings and well-being of potential victims, making sexually violent behavior more likely.
Psychosocial Factors: Dependence, Criminal Associations, and Environments
Long-term meth use can lead to psychological dependence, causing individuals to prioritize obtaining and using the drug over other aspects of their lives. In some cases, this preoccupation with meth use can expose individuals to criminal environments and associations that further increase the risk of engaging in violent behavior.
Individual Differences and Other Factors
Recognizing Not All Meth Users Exhibit Sexually Violent Behavior
It is crucial to emphasize that while meth use may increase the risk of violent behavior, not all individuals who use meth will become sexually violent. Multiple factors, including genetics, upbringing, mental health, and individual personality traits, contribute to a person’s likelihood of engaging in violent acts.
Interplay of Personal History, Mental Health, Upbringing, and Personality Traits
An individual’s personal history, including past trauma, mental health conditions, upbringing, and personality characteristics, significantly shape their behaviors and responses. These factors can either amplify or mitigate the impact of methamphetamine use on violent tendencies.
Importance of Considering Multifaceted Influences on Behavior
Understanding the complex interplay of individual, environmental, and substance-related factors is essential for comprehending the connection between meth use and sexually violent behavior. It highlights the need for a holistic approach in addressing and preventing these behaviors.
Justice Has Been Served for Shad Thyrion
In the wake of these tumultuous proceedings, the community hopes for a verdict to bring closure to the Thyrion family and justice for Shad.
Many believe that, while addressing the heinous nature of the crime, the court’s decision will also consider the wider societal issues at play, ensuring a comprehensive approach to justice.
There is growing advocacy for a legal system that penalizes, rehabilitates, and addresses underlying causes, ensuring that such tragedies are averted in the future.
As Taylor Schabusiness prepares for her day in court, the community looks forward to a just outcome that will ideally pave the way for a safer, more empathetic society.
SOURCES/ARTICLES
-
Taylor Schabusiness decapitated and mutilated her lover in a meth-fueled tryst. Then she bragged to police
-
Taylor Schabusiness Wants Meth-Fueled Confession of Sexually Assaulting a Decapitated Corpse Tossed
-
Woman accused in dismemberment slaying attacks her attorney
-
Taylor Schabusiness has been convicted. Here’s what’s next
