KINGMAN, Ariz. (AP) - A man who pleaded guilty to first-degree murder in the death of a Bullhead City girl has been sentenced to life in prison.
Justin Rector's sentencing Friday came nearly four years after Isabella Grogan-Cannella's body was found in a shallow grave near her home.
The now 31-year-old Rector had been a guest in the home when Isabella was reported missing.
A Mohave County judge denied a request this week from Rector to withdraw his plea. Rector had argued his attorney withheld information and the plea was unjust.
The judge heard statements from Isabella's family Friday, remembering her smile and her ability to make people laugh.
The Kingman Daily Miner reports that Rector apologized in court and said Isabella didn't deserve to be killed.
