Caleb Flynn, the former pastor and “American Idol” contestant convicted of murdering his wife, was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole Monday.
The judge called Flynn’s actions “impossible to fathom,” saying he poses “extreme risk of harm to the public — in fact, the highest risk.”
Video above: Jury finds Caleb Flynn guilty of all charges in wife’s death
He was found guilty last week of shooting and killing his wife, Ashley, in their Ohio home, then staging the scene to look like a break-in.
The victim’s family shared statements in court Monday, remembering Ashley. Her family also read written statements from Ashley and Flynn’s two daughters.
The prosecution submitted a statement of facts, calling for Flynn to face the maximum sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole.
“The maximum prison sentence is wholly warranted in this case due to Defendant’s evident indifference to the value of human life and the well-being of his wife, his children, his family and his community. It is important to note that Defendant could have lawfully left his marriage. Instead, he chose murder. He planned Ashley’s murder for months. This was a planned and calculated execution. His conduct, his lack of remorse, the devastation he caused these families, and his utter disregard for human life call for the maximum sentence, life imprisonment without the possibility of parole,” prosecutor Paul Watkins stated in his sentencing memorandum.
In the defense memorandum, attorney Patrick Mulligan stated Flynn continues to maintain his innocence and submits his history demonstrates he is “not beyond rehabilitation,” citing a lack of a prior criminal record. The defense also submitted letters from Flynn’s parents.
The jury deliberated for less than three hours before delivering the guilty verdict last Tuesday.
Flynn was found guilty on all charges and gun specifications: aggravated murder, three counts of murder, two counts of felonious assault and three counts of tampering with evidence.
Flynn’s defense continues to maintain his innocence, saying they plan to file an appeal.
“I fully anticipate a notice of appeal filed,” defense attorney Patrick Mulligan said, saying he anticipates the decision will be “fully tested.”
