After three attorneys withdrew from defending alleged Toomer’s Corner tree killer Harvey Updyke, Jr., a Birmingham attorney has agreed to take the case.
Glennon Threatt, Jr. told Paul Finebaum that after speaking to Updyke “extensively about the case” by phone, he would defend the man accused of poisoning the beloved oak trees on Auburn’s campus.
Attorney Glennon Threatt, Jr.
Updyke, a rabid University of Alabama fan, called Finebaum’s radio show on January 27 saying he poisoned the trees at Toomer’s Corner following Auburn’s come from behind 28-27 victory over the Crimson Tide in the Iron Bowl on November 26.
Threatt said that Updyke was an “unusual man” but seems to be “a very affable and friendly person.” However, the attorney appeared to lay the foundation for a possible psychological defense when he told Finebaum that he’s not sure if Updyke is the type of person that would take credit for something he didn’t do.
During the investigation, Updyke told police that he didn’t poison the trees at Toomer’s Corner, calling into question whether he may have taken credit for the act.
“I enjoyed the times I’ve talked to him,” Threatt said. “And I’m looking forward to representing him. I expect this case to be a lot of fun.”
Harvey Updyke, Jr.
Updyke is free on a $50,000 bond on a first-degree criminal mischief charge. Threatt says a preliminary hearing will be held March 2.
The tree poisoning has angered Auburn fans, prompting thousands of people to attend a “Toomer’s Tree Hug” rally over the weekend. Threatt said Updyke’s tires were slashed in a Wal-Mart parking lot.
On Wednesday, workers finished replacing poisoned soil down to about 18 inches around the trees in efforts to save the 130-year-old oaks, university spokesman Mike Clardy said.
Threatt said Updyke was living in a car in the woods to escape possible injury or worse.
