Sean Lynde, Manhattan Serial Cat Killer, Arrested

Sean Lynde, a self-employed graphic designed, is accused of what amounts to being a serial cat killer. Authorities reported he systematically killed killed at least four of his girlfriend's cats and tortured two others as the unsuspecting woman continued to adopt new ones.

According to the report, Sean Lynde's crimes occurred over a four-month period. It's hard to imagine that with four cats dying over that time, that his girlfriend (now ex-girlfriend) Rachael Strate wouldn't put two-and-two together, but oh, well.

Here's the extent of Sean Lynde's death toll:

• Sean Lynde moved into Strate's New York apartment on Oct. 1, 2008. Three days later, her 15-year-old cat, her 15-year-old cat, Cleo, was found dead behind a dryer with her mouth full of laundry detergent and a broken jaw. A necropsy revealed the cat had head trauma from being beaten. Wait, beaten? Why did Strate not kick him out then?

• 12-year-old Zoe suffered extensive head trauma and had to be euthanized by the end of that same month.

• In November, Strate adopted two kittens, Willie and Betty. Willie was returned; he was unresponsive had trouble walking by the next day. The second kitten, Betty, died Nov. 24. Sean Lynde told the veterinarian the kitten had suffered fallen off a table.

• Strate adopted two more kittens, Emo and Bonafide, on Dec. 18. Emo was treated for a broken paw that same day, and was reported missing Jan. 22. Shortly before Christmas, Bonafide suffered trauma resulting in blindness and brain damage. His body was found Jan. 23 with a broken neck.

Apparently, Starte was still not adding things up; the ASPCA began investigating when tipped off to Sean Lynde's suspected activities, but apparently not by Strate.

It should be noted that psychologists note that serial killers (of humans) typically "practice" with animals. It's unclear if Sean Lynde killed any animals previously.