LUBBOCK (AP) — A 52-year-old man who prosecutors say was paid in silver bars by a plastic surgeon to kill a love rival in Texas pleaded guilty Thursday to capital murder.
David Neal Shepard entered the plea in the killing of Dr. Joseph Sonnier III, 57, whose body was found, stabbed and shot, at his Lubbock home July 11, 2012.
Judge James B. Darnell said the state is recommending a sentence of life in prison without parole. Shepard could have faced the death penalty. Darnell said sentencing would take place in about two weeks.
