Dr. Thomas Wentzell, a 72-year-old Florida doctor, has been sentenced to 12 years in prison after admitting to murdering his wife, Linda Wentzell, by suffocating her with a pillow. He had initially lied about the cause of injuries to both himself and his wife, claiming they were from playing with the family dog.
The Crime
On December 2, police responded to the Wentzells’ home in Windermere, a wealthy suburb of Orlando, where they found Linda Wentzell dead in the master bedroom. Detectives noticed discrepancies between Thomas Wentzell’s statements and their initial findings, particularly after observing injuries on his face, neck, and arms. He claimed these injuries were from playing with the family dog.
Inconsistent Statements and Arrest
Though police initially did not arrest Thomas Wentzell, three days later, they responded to a report of suicidal threats at his office. After being read his Miranda rights, Wentzell confessed to killing his wife by suffocating her with a pillow. He explained that the murder occurred after a spontaneous argument between him and his wife, stating they were the only people in the house at the time.
Sentencing and Prison
Thomas Wentzell pleaded no contest to second-degree murder and was sentenced to 12 years in prison. He has been held in the Orange County Jail since his arrest.
Neighbor Statements
At the time of the murder, neighbors reported that the couple was known to have frequent arguments, providing further context to the tragic event.
