(Updated Feb. 23) On May 3, 2010, George Huguely kicked down the bedroom door in Yeardley Love’s apartment. Then, in a drunken rage, he beat his former girlfriend to death. Both were college students and star lacrosse players for the University of Virginia (UVA). Yeardley died just weeks before graduating from UVA and walking on the stage to receive her diploma with her classmates. Huguely was later indicted by a grand jury on charges of first degree murder, felony murder, robbery of a residence, burglary, entering a house with intent to commit a felony, and, grand larceny. Huguely’s murder trial began earlier this February. And tonight, Feb. 22, George Huguely was found guilty of 2nd degree murder and grand larceny in the murder of Yeardley Love. Astoundingly, he was found 'not guilty’ on the remaining counts.
According to USA Today:
Second-degree murder in Virginia is defined as murder with malice that is not premeditated. It carries a sentence of five to 40 years. A sentence of grand larceny ranges from zero to 20 years.
Huguely’s sentencing may come as early as tonight. Considering the fact that Huguely already spent almost 2 years behind bars, he may be back on the streets in as little as 3 years from now. It’s all the jury’s hands.
February 23rd Update: George Huguely’s Sentencing
Almost immediately after arriving at their guilty verdicts, the jury began their sentencing phase and deliberated for almost 9 hours – and then recommended to the judge that Huguely serve 25 years for the 2nd degree murder charge. They tacked on an additional year for the grand larceny guilty charge.
Note that in Virginia, the jury does only “recommend” a sentence. The judge has the final say in the matter and can increase or decrease the sentence at his discretion.
According to The Washington Post:
Circuit Judge Edward Hogshire set an April court date for sentencing matters before formal sentencing, expected to be held in summer. He is not bound by the jury’s recommendations, but Virginia judges typically heed jurors’ wishes.
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