NYC Man Accused of Brutal Murder Lashes Out at Photographer in Court

Candido Rodriguez, accused of the brutal murder of his ex-girlfriend Melanie Woods, displayed agitation in a Manhattan courtroom Tuesday as he lashed out at a photographer. Rodriguez is facing charges of first-degree murder and criminal possession of a weapon in relation to Woods' death.

Rodriguez, who had previously broken down in tears during his arraignment, appeared in court from a psychiatric ward for a pre-trial evaluation. During the proceedings, he turned to address court officers, protesting the presence of a photographer. Judge Ann Scherzer intervened, reminding those present that it was an open court and asking the photographer to cease taking pictures of the defendant.

Prosecutors allege that Rodriguez was waiting in Woods' Harlem apartment when she returned home around 7 a.m. on April 23, after he had sent her a series of angry messages. Neighbors reported hearing shouting, crashes, and screams from the apartment. The noise reportedly stopped around 8 a.m., after which a neighbor heard the apartment door close and footsteps descending the stairs. Woods' body was discovered later when friends, concerned after she missed a flight to California, requested a wellness check from the New York City Police Department. She was found with more than 20 stab wounds and her neck slashed.

Rodriguez and Woods were reportedly in an on-off relationship, and Woods had previously asked him not to contact her. Security footage shows Rodriguez leaving the building and hailing a cab shortly after 8 a.m. on the day of Woods' death.

At his arraignment, Rodriguez's defense attorney requested immediate medical treatment for him. The judge agreed to place him on suicide watch, noting he appeared "incredibly distraught" and was reportedly inconsolable.

Woods is remembered by her family as a vibrant and adventurous person who "always rooted for the underdog." A GoFundMe page was established to help bring her remains back to California. Rodriguez is scheduled to return to court on December 1.