Vevay man convicted of killing father, mutilating dogs

(VEVAY, Ind.) – A Switzerland County jury has found a Vevay man guilty of killing his father and mutilating four dogs. 

This marks the first murder conviction in Switzerland County since 2008. 

The investigation began after deputies responded to a Vevay apartment complex last March. 

32-year-old Ryan Uopasarn was immediately arrested while police secured the crime scene. 

First responders attempted to save the life of Sulasek “Mike” Uopasarn who had been stabbed more than 25 times with a butcher knife.

“However, despite the efforts of Switzerland County EMS and Jefferson Craig Volunteer Firefighters, the victim succumbed within minutes due to multiple stab wounds to his liver, stomach, and heart,” said Switzerland County Prosecutor Ryan Marshall.

Investigators added that when they got to the scene they also found the bodies of four small dogs that had been brutally mutilated and killed.

Detectives said Uopasarn calmly described stabbing his father and the dogs. He allegedly also gave a recorded confession. 

During the trial, Prosecutor Marshall and Chief Deputy Prosecutor Ryan Bland presented more than 100 items of evidence, including a blood stained murder weapon, DNA analysis, and surveillance footage. 

Ryan Uopasarn allegedly argued that he shouldn't be held responsible because he was 'insane' at the time.

However, a forensic psychiatrist and psychologist testified that Uopasarn not only exaggerated or fabricated mental health symptoms, but also knew his actions were wrongful at the time.

The jury convicted Uopasarn after two hours of deliberation. 

Prosecutor Marshall applauded the members of the jury for their courage and being fair-minded throughout the trial.

“These men and women sat attentively through days of horrific evidence of unspeakable crimes. And their decision to convict helped make their home safer. While I will respect their privacy by not naming them individually, I do hope that friends, neighbors, and loved ones of each juror gratefully acknowledge their service to Switzerland County. I do. Their voice—and their choice—is the one that matters,” Marshall said. 

Marshall added that Indiana law does not qualify this case for the death penalty or life-without-parole 

Uopasarn faces a maximum sentence of 65 years in prison when he is sentenced by Switzerland County Circuit Judge W. Gregory Coy, who also presided over the trial.