James Richardson sentenced to life in prison

A Jefferson County judge sentenced James Richardson to life in prison with no chance for parole. This for his involvement in the murder of 28-year-old Beau Butschke in July.

It was an emotional morning in the packed courtroom Wednesday. One by one, Butschke's family and friends read statements to the court.

"Over and over I'd replay the tape in my head, but the outcome is still the same. Beau is dead and I cannot change a thing," said Amy Christie.

"He was brutally murdered, he died, and so did I," said Bob Butschke, Beau's father.

Prosecutors say Richardson shot and killed Butschke outside his home in July because of an argument over mowing the lawn. With the help of an accomplice, James Richards, they tried to cover it up by hiding Butschke's body and truck in a storage locker.

In his defense, Richardson willingly chose to plead guilty to the homicide charge in October. Despite that plea, Richardson will be locked up for the rest of his life.

"It's not going to bring Beau back, and it's not going to make our life easier, but it's fair and just and gives us the belief that God was there, giving guidance," said Bob Butschke after the sentencing.

19-year-old James Richards pleaded guilty Tuesday to charges of moving and hiding a dead body. He is scheduled to be sentenced December 7th.