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Bentler Sentenced to Life in Prison

By Ashley Hinson

Story Created: Jun 19, 2007 at 6:11 AM CST

Story Updated: Jun 19, 2007 at 8:11 PM CST

KEOSAUQUA (AP) - Shawn Bentler got five life sentences in Keosauqua for the killing of his entire immediate family.

The Quincy, Ill., man, was found guilty last month on five counts of first-degree murder in the shooting deaths of his parents and three teenager sisters at their home in Bonaparte last October.

Judge Michael Mullins is ordering Bentler to serve four of the sentences concurrently. Mullins says a fifth conviction, for murdering his mother, will be served consecutively because of its brutality.

Mullins says Bentler's killing of his mother was “absolutely merciless.”

Before the sentencing, family members made several emotional statements. Sitting quietly, Bentler showed little emotion.

Earlier on Tuesday, Mullins rejected Bentler's appeal for a new trial, saying there was ample evidence offered at trial that proved his guilt.

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