MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Collierville Attorney who tried to hire a hitman to kill his wife entered a ‘best interest plea’ Tuesday in a Memphis courtroom.
Fred Auston Wortman said, “I take full responsibility for my actions. I do apologize to Staci, my parents, and my little ones. I’m truly sorry.”
Monday, Wortman entered the same plea to similar charges in Fayette County.
That “best interest” plea means he’s admitting no guilt, but accepts the punishment.
Wortman is accused of trying to murder his wife by poisoning her toothpaste.
After that failed, police say he twice tried to hire someone to kill her.
Staci Wortman told the court, “My children are the biggest victims. They know their daddy is in jail. They know he no longer wanted me alive. Auston, your children and I pray for you daily, that your heart will change.”
In Fayette County, he was sentenced to 30 years for the attempted murder charge and eight years for the solicitation charge.
The same sentence applies in Shelby County and will run concurrent.
Wortman could be eligible for parole in 10 years.