Ex-‘American Idol’ contestant Caleb Flynn sentenced to life without parole in wife’s murder

A former Ohio music pastor and “American Idol” contestant has been sentenced to life without possibility of parole for killing his wife in their Dayton-area home earlier this year.

Caleb Flynn, 40, was found guilty of aggravated murder in the February shooting of Ashley Flynn, 37, a schoolteacher and volleyball coach. Flynn and their two daughters were home when police arrived.

Before issuing the sentence, Judge Jeannine Pratt said he would be punished because he posed a high risk of harm to the community.

“The layers of deceit, manipulation and cruelty are hard to fathom,” Pratt said Monday. “And you used your faith to manipulate the lives of others.”

Flynn maintained his innocence Monday, crying and shaking as he read a statement to his family and Ashley’s.

“I loved her and loved her. She was my wife. She was beautiful and amazing in countless ways,” Flynn said. “I will continue to fight for my innocence as long as the Lord allows me to, since I did not kill my wife.”

To his two children, Flynn apologized and said they are his greatest joy in life. He thanked his parents for their love and kindness and said their support throughout the…

Original source: https://www.nbcnews.com/health