TAMPA, Fla — Thursday marked day two of the “penalty phase” in the Ronnie Oneal double murder trial.
The defense team presented Dr. Scot Machlus, a Tampa forensic psychologist who evaluated Oneal in the days after his arrest for the murder of his girlfriend and daughter.
Over the course of 12 following visits with Oneal, Dr. Machlus found that prior sexual abuse, trauma from a shooting as an adult, along with a predisposition for mental illness all should be factors taken into account by the jury when recommending a life or death sentence.
In his review of previous mental health and police records, Machlus testified that Ronnie Oneal was sexually abused by three older cousins visiting from out of two when he was just 5 years old. Those suspected in that case were never charged, according to the testimony, and left Ronnie “messed up” and upset no one was held accountable.
The incident led to troubles in school, and the psychologist said no formal therapy was ever provided.
As an adult, records also showed Oneal was hurt in a random drive-by shooting and he nearly lost his life. In that case, no one was ever charged.
Dr. Machlus told the jury trauma from the two incidents had a major impact on Oneal and affected his behavior on the night of the murders.
"This capital felony was committed while the defendant was under the influence of extreme mental or emotional disturbance," Dr. Machlus told the jury during questioning.
Both the defense and prosecution rested their cases Thursday.
Closing arguments for both sides are expected to begin first thing Friday morning before the jury begins their deliberations.
If they decide to recommend the death penalty it must be unanimous and then it's still up to the judge to make a final decision on Oneal's sentence.
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