A man in Pennsylvania has been charged with misdemeanor abuse of a corpse after allegedly hiding his friend’s body in a garbage bin above a pizza shop, according to court records. Cavell Watkins, 64, is being held in the Butler County Prison after being unable to post bail. The prison, where Watkins is currently being held, is a facility that houses individuals who are awaiting trial or have been sentenced to serve time for various offenses.
The incident occurred on the 200 block of North Main Street in Butler, Pennsylvania, about 30 miles north of Pittsburgh. Officers with the Butler City Police Department were called to an apartment on Monday, where they found a large trash can in the kitchen with a cologne bottle on top.
When investigators opened the bin, they found a man’s body inside, “folded at the waist” and covered with blankets and pillows. Watkins allegedly told law enforcement that he, a woman, and the victim were using crack cocaine together before Watkins and the woman left the apartment.
They apparently returned to find the victim unresponsive. Watkins allegedly claimed he hid the body because he was afraid.
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Watkins has also been charged with felony manufacturing, delivering, or possession of a controlled substance with intent. He was arraigned in court on Monday night and is set to return for a preliminary hearing on July 13.
Neighbors and those in the area found the sequence of events bizarre. Jeff Eberhardt, whose wife owns Pizza Joe’s, which operates underneath the apartment, said he was “kind of shocked” by the incident.
“It’s kind of crazy,” Eberhardt added, describing how he saw officers remove a “large garbage can” from the back of the residence. Another neighbor said, “You would get in less trouble, in my opinion, if you, initially, be respectful and call the police.”
The police department is still investigating the incident. Watkins remains in the Butler County Prison pending his preliminary hearing.
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According to the city’s Wikipedia page, Butler has a population of around 13,000 people.
As the investigation continues, Watkins faces serious charges related to the abuse of a corpse and possession of a controlled substance. The case will be closely watched by the community and law enforcement officials, who must consider the importance of case lawyers in situations like this.
He is being held. The Butler County Prison is responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of all inmates, including Watkins, while they are in custody.
The incident has highlighted the need for effective communication and cooperation between law enforcement, the community, and individuals who may be involved in sensitive situations. The use of case lawyers can help to facilitate this process, by providing guidance and support to those who are handling the legal system.
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