FELICITY, Ohio -- A man accused of murder in two states blames heroin for his misdeeds.
Michael Wilcox pleaded guilty to the murder of his girlfriend, Courtney Fowler, in Brown County Court on Monday.
He was sentenced to 18 years to life.
Fowler was found shot to death at the couple’s Felicity home in April.
During the hearing, Fowler’s mother said she has forgiven Wilcox.
Prosecutors said Fowler's mother told the court she forgave him because she didn't want to carry that malice in her heart for the rest of her life.
In a statement, prosecutors said while Wilcox may blame heroin for the killings that alone doesn’t explain his actions.
“The defendant Michael Wilcox has no excuse for his conduct. He has none. He spoke in court and somewhat diverted the cause to being drugs or heroin. I'm sure it contributed to things but it's no excuse for taking that young lady's life,” Special prosecutor David Kelley said.
Wilcox is also charged in the killing of Zachary Gilkison in Kentucky.
Wilcox tried to get a police officer to shoot him when he was arrested.
