Osburn Receives Life Sentence in Crowder Murder

During the sentencing phase Friday afternoon, prosecutor Thomas Deen called two witnesses, Casey's parents, Melinda and Marty Crowder.

"There's no way to convey what this has done to our family. There will always be a dark cloud of murder following my family for the rest of their lives. I still don't sleep at night sometimes wondering why," Melinda Crowder said reading from a prepared statement.

She then addressed Osburn directly.

"You could have just pushed her out of your truck, but you chose to put a plastic zip tie around her neck and watch her die. I'll never understand why you did this. You've also killed a part of me."

Casey's father also read from a statement for the jury.

"I'm a father of five, four boys and one girl. Casey was my jewel, you can ask anyone," Marty Crowder read aloud. "her absence is the hardest thing I have ever experienced. Each time we hunt, fish or camp we all say how much better it would be if Casey were here too. My daugter's energy was contagious. Now it's hard to have fun and not feel guilty because she's there to share it with. We love her with all of our heart," Crowder said.

After his statement, he looked at the jury.

"Have you ever had to bury a child? It's the most difficult thing you could ever have to do."

The defense has called eight character witnesses, including Kenneth Osburn's mother, brother and sister.

Ruth Osburn said her son was a good boy who dropped out of school in the 9th grade but went to work on a farm.

While she spoke, the defendant broke down at the defense table, the first visible emotions shown since the trial began Monday.

"Please have mercy on my son," Ruth Osburn said.

Defense witnesses continue to be called to the stand right now.