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2-Time Killer Gets Life Without Parole In Motorcyclist's Death

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By RAY REYES | The Tampa Tribune

Published: July 30, 2008

  Harry Taylor

The man found guilty of second-degree murder in the death of a motorcycle rider nicknamed "Uncle Ugly" was sentenced today to life in prison.

On July 10, a jury took 45 minutes to find Harry Brian Taylor guilty of the hit-and-run death.

Prosecutors contend that Taylor met John Michael Meek — called "Uncle Ugly" by his friends — in a Riverview bar in 2007 and grew agitated when Meek ignored his attempts at conversation.

Taylor's friendly mood changed when Meek, 52, walked into the bar dressed in bluejeans, a black leather vest and a bandanna, witnesses testified during the trial. Taylor, witnesses said, made comments that Meek wasn't a real biker and that he could take the former wrestler in a fight.

Both men left the bar about 3 a.m. Aug. 29. Meek left on his Harley-Davidson. Taylor, 38, driving his GMC work van, left in the same direction as Meek.

Minutes later, Meek was found on the road next to his damaged motorcycle. Prosecutors said he was rammed from behind and run over. He died about an hour after being struck.

This will be Taylor's second trip to prison.

In 1988, he pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, Assistant State Attorney Pam Bondi said. Taylor served 12 years of a 40-year sentence for stabbing a 60-year-old man in Ocala. Taylor was trying to steal the man's car.

State law has changed since his previous conviction. Prisoners now must serve at least 85 percent of their sentences. Because of his life sentence, there is no possibility of parole for Taylor, prosecutors said.

Reporter Ray Reyes can be reached at (813) 259-7920 or rreyes@tampatrib.com.

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