MAN CONVICTED OF KILLING HIS GIRLFRIEND IN FRONT OF HER CHILDREN

A man convicted of killing his girlfriend in front of her three children was more concerned with the future upkeep of his hair than showing any remorse when sentenced to life in prison on Thursday. Alexis Torres, 28, received 20 years to life after pleading guilty to killing Amber Lynne Fernald, 33, in Troy, New York, in June. Torries sat impassively in court as Fernald’s family took it in turns to describe what he had done to their family. Fernald’s mother Patricia described him as a ‘soulless monster’, but then broke down halfway through her statement. The eldest of Fernald’s three

children, 13-year-old Justin Sherrod, continued his grandmother’s words. 'I hope that for the rest of your life that you are haunted by the images of what you did to the woman you said you loved,' he said. 'We hope you burn in Hell.' When the family had finished, Torres’ defense attorney said that he had a request for the judge - that jailers be prevented from cutting his hair. Fernald's family were astonished by his insensitive response, reports Chron. The judge then explained that he had no power over whether state prison officials trim Torres' hair - which was worn in a ponytail for his trial - and told him to make the request when he got to prison. It isn't clear if Torres' request was for religious reasons.

Fernald was asleep in her home on June 10 when Torres broke in, dragged her from her bed and stabbed her in front of her three children, aged 13, 12 and 3. It had been daughter Alanna's 12th birthday.Torres, originally from Puerto Rico, then tried to kill himself. He had been on probation for a previous conviction for attempted burglary.

Fernald's sister Colleen Peterson said Amber had tried to break up with Torres numerous times, but had stayed because she was scared of him. An order of protection had been in place at the time of Fernald's death to keep Torres away from her and her family because of previous problems. Fernald's three children are now being taken care of by their fathers and other family members.