Man accused of killing pet snake during burglary claims he was high

A man charged for killing a pet snake while burglarizing a Northeast home said he was high on Zanax and doesn’t recall the alleged incident, according to a criminal complaint.

Eighteen-year-old Elio Martell was located by El Paso Police when responding to a burglary in progress January 26 at a home at the 5500 block of Dearborne Drive. Martell was spotted carrying stolen property a short distance from the home, according to police.

During investigation, detectives found the home owner’s pet python dead inside the houser with multiple stab wounds.

According to a criminal complaint, the pet snake remains were taken to two different veterinarians who confirmed the snake suffered from five stab founds.

Police say the homeowner arrived to his home where Martell confronted him and threatened him with a knife.

During questioning, Martell admitted he was in possession of a knife but denied remembering the alleged incident, stating he was high on Zanax.

Martell was charged with Cruelty to Animals, Aggravated Robbery, Assault on a Peace Officer and Resisting Arrest. Already being held at the El Paso County Detention Facility on previous charges, Martell was rebooked under an additional bond of $5,000.

Jail records show that Martell was previously arrested on numerous charges.