Punishment

First-degree murder is punishable with a prison sentence of 10 years to life in Arkansas. Capital murder is punishable with life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty. Circuit Judge Robin Green asked Martinez-Torres.

Dobbs told the judge law enforcement and the boy’s mother were in agreement with the negotiated plea.

“No terms of years will bring her child back, but she’s hopeful it will bring closure and allow her to move forward with her life,” Dobbs said.

The judge said she was reluctantly accepting the plea agreement which she described as lenient.

Green sentenced Martinez-Torres to 25 years in the Arkansas Department of Correction. He must serve 17 years before he’s eligible for parole and must abide by a suspended sentence agreement for 15 years after his release.

Martinez-Torres received 554 days of credit for the time he spent in the Benton County Jail awaiting his trial. He must pay $1,420 in court-associated costs.

Martinez-Torres apologized to Montero, who was present in court. He thanked family and told them he loved them. He thanked Ledbetter for his work on the case.

“Finally, I want to say that when I get out of prison I will be a better member of society and never step in court again,” Martinez-Torres told the judge.