Murder Sentencing

A Four State man will spend the next 20 years in prison for the murder of a Columbus, Kansas, woman. 21-year old Thomas Legrand was sentenced in a Cherokee County courtrooom for the death of 74-year old Margaret Barrett. In June, Legrand pleaded guilty to intentional second degree murder as a part of a plea agreement. Barrett`s family members spoke to the judge before sentencing, asking for the harshest sentence the agreement would allow. Family members spoke opening about their disagreement with county prosecutor, Joanna Derfelt`s decision to make a plea agreement. Derfelt says she thinks the plea agreement was the best option. "I understand a part of that is just the way things happen," Derfelt said. "It came up during a motion to suppress, and I either risk continuing the motion and him walking free or have a plea agreement." Legrand decided not to speak at today`s sentencing, but his lawyer, Larry Prauser says he does express remorse and sorrow for the family`s loss. "He has mental condition, it is documented, 10th grade education, he did not feel prepared to make a statement to court or the family." Legrand was given credit for time served. Once released from prison, he will have 36 months release supervision. Eddie VanHouten, who pleaded guilty to first degree murder for the death of Barrett, was sentenced to life in prison last month. Reported By: Jennifer Haile