Former “American Idol” contestant Caleb Flynn was ordered to spend the rest of his life in prison after being convicted of murdering his wife while involved in an extramarital affair.
The sentence was handed down by an Ohio judge who harshly ruled the 40-year-old convicted killer was beyond salvation.
“The court’s primary function and obligation is to impose a sentence that protects the public and in some cases where appropriate to promote rehabilitation,” Miami County Common Pleas Judge Jeannine Pratt said Monday. “However, having heard the evidence in this case and having considered the jury’s findings of guilt as to all nine counts, the court is left with one clear and obvious conclusion, that you Mr. Flynn, pose an extreme risk of harm to the public. In fact the highest risk. The only proper disposition is punishment in this case.”
Flynn, who briefly appeared on “American Idol” in 2013, was convicted last week of killing his 36-year-old wife in the couple’s Ohio home.
“When I want something, I’m gonna go after it,” he boasted during a segment of the TV talent show in which contestants describe themselves.
During his trial, jurors were read text messages the defendant sent to his former mistress before the mother of his two daughters was killed, claiming he’d soon be “free.”
Pratt accused Flynn, who described himself to “American Idol” viewers as a singing pastor who loved and was inspired by his wife, of hiding behind his faith to deceive the people around him and satisfy his “lust.”
Flynn admitted to being a bad husband during his sentencing hearing, but continued denying killing the 36-year-old victim.
“I made vows to Ashley on our wedding day. I failed in those vows,” he admitted.
Flynn told authorities his wife was murdered when a burglar entered their home. Investigators found no evidence to support that claim.