Man Gets Life In Prison For Fatal Waukesha Stabbing, Arson

WAUKESHA, WI — A circuit court judge sentenced a Waukesha man on Monday to life in prison for a fatal stabbing and arson that occurred in the city about two years ago. In May, a jury found Amani Swanel Tobias Smith, 22, of Milwaukee guilty of killing 63-year-old Dennis Huelse of Waukesha.

He was convicted of multiple charges, including first-degree intentional homicide, use of a dangerous weapon, arson, mutilating a corpse, and taking a car without consent.

On Sept. 26, 2019 firefighters were called to a home on the 600 block of S. University Drive at just after 5 a.m. for a report of heavy smoke coming from inside the building. After putting out the fire, they said they found a victim's burnt body, later identified as Huelse, within eight minutes of arrival, authorities said.

SEE ALSO:

• Man Found Guilty In Waukesha Stabbing Death And Arson

Huelse was found with a knife stuck in his neck, according to a criminal complaint. During the course of their investigation, authorities learned that Huelse's red 1969 Pontiac Firebird had been stolen prior to the fire. A person came forward a short time later, saying he found the Firebird in an alley in Milwaukee.

Surveillance video ultimately led police to Smith.

On Monday, family members for both Smith and Huelse appeared in court and by Zoom. The victim's two brothers, three daughters and niece presented statements to the court as well as Smith's mother, father and two aunts, court records show. Smith also addressed the courtroom prior to sentencing.

In addition to the life sentence, the judge ordered that Smith could not have contact with any of the victim's family members and issued a protective order for Huelse's brothers, daughters and grandchildren. Smith was also ordered to provide a DNA sample — if he had not already provided one to authorities.

According to court records, Smith is eligible for extended supervision after serving 42 years of initial confinement. He was given 593 days credit for time already served. He is not eligible for the state's Challenge Incarceration Program.