HERNANDO, Miss. — A jury sentenced Amanda Raines to life in prison Wednesday.
She and her husband Jack Raines, of Horn Lake, both confessed in January to second-degree murder in the killing of Tyler Raines, Jack’s son.
Police said Tyler, who was 11 years old, was being starved and tortured.
The jury deliberated for three days before handing in the decision. Raines could have been sentenced to 20 years to life.
During the deliberation, the defense asked for a mistrial due to an issue related to evidence, but the judge did not grant the motion.
No mistrial. Jury gives Amanda Raines life in prison for murder of stepson Tyler. @3onyourside #WREG
— Katie Hlebasko (@KHlebaskoWAND) August 12, 2015
First, we were on jury watch. Now, we're on judge watch. The question now, will there be a mistrial in the Amanda Raines sentencing? #WREG
— Katie Hlebasko (@KHlebaskoWAND) August 12, 2015
Family awaiting outcome of Amanda Raines sentencing for stepson's murder. "He was our hero," they said of Tyler #WREG pic.twitter.com/g7dc8bkdti
— Katie Hlebasko (@KHlebaskoWAND) August 12, 2015
Defense: "I'm not going to sit here and tell you she's a good mother." Amanda Raines crying in courtroom, dabbing tears. #WREG
— Katie Hlebasko (@KHlebaskoWAND) August 12, 2015
