Judge Imposes 3rd Life Sentence Against Abortion Doctor Kermit Gosnell
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – A judge imposed a third life sentence against West Philadelphia abortion doctor Kermit Gosnell Wednesday morning.
Gosnell was found guilty Monday of first-degree murder for killing three babies born alive and viable during abortion procedures. Gosnell was also found guilty of involuntary manslaughter in the death of a woman who died at his clinic during a procedure (See Related Story). He was also convicted of numerous other charges related to violations at his clinic.
Gosnell declined to comment during Wednesday's 10 minute hearing.
Speaking on his behalf after Wednesday's hearing, Gosnell's attorney Jack McMahon said he (Gosnell) "believes that he never killed a live baby."
On Tuesday, Gosnell gave up his right to all future appeals in his case and in exchange, Philadelphia prosecutors agreed not to pursue the death penalty against the 72-year-old physician.
The deal came after a full day of negotiations between prosecutors and Gosnell's defense attorneys.
Full Coverage of Dr. Kermit Gosnell Case
Once the agreement was completed, Judge Jeffrey Minehart immediately imposed life in prison on Gosnell for two of the first-degree murder convictions.
The third first-degree murder case was held aside to give the family of the woman who died a chance to make a statement in court before Gosnell is sent to prison for the rest of his life.
Judge Jeffrey Minehart imposed the third life sentence against Gosnell on Wednesday morning.
