The man accused of viciously beating an elderly owner of the San Diego-area “Trump House” showed no emotions for his alleged crime during his first court appearance Friday, as the victim continues to fight for his life.
Thomas Caleb Butler, 32, allegedly tried to kill 69-year-old Kerry Sheron on Wednesday outside of his Escondido home, leaving him in a condition that his wife believes he has “no hope” of recovering from.
Butler had an icy cold stare in court, appearing emotionless as he pleaded not guilty to the attempted murder charge.
Sheron was left in critical condition following the Wednesday afternoon attack, and his wife told The Post there’s “no hope” he’ll survive the brutal beating. He’s currently on life support at nearby Palomar Medical Center.
A family friend told The Post that Thomas suffered “severe PTSD” from his time in the armed forces and that he supported President Donald Trump and was a Republican.
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Police said they responded to a violent attack on East Mission Avenue and Buchanan Street in Escondido at about 2:15 p.m. Wednesday, where they found Sheron lying with severe injuries and a utility worker restraining the alleged attacker.
The circumstances surrounding the assault are still unclear, but police believe Butler didn’t know Sheron.
Neighbors had complained about Sheron’s display, full of American flags and Trump memorabilia, and a vandalism incident appeared to have occurred in March, according to his Facebook page. But it’s unclear if Butler allegedly attacked Sheron because of the display.
Butler’s family friend says while he was medicated, his mental illness was debilitating.
After serving several years in the Navy, Butler was unemployed and dealing with demons, the friend said.
He “sits in his room and thinks everyone is coming to get him,” the friend said, suggesting Butler suffers from intense paranoia.
Police are in the process of speaking to witnesses and believe the attack had nothing to do with politics.
They told The Post they’re still actively working the case.
Butler is currently booked in Vista Detention Facility on a charge of first-degree attempted murder.
If convicted, he could spend life in prison.