Prosecutor Dirk Carnahan commented over the weekend on last Friday’s sentencing of Dylan Smith for the murder of Taylor Hendershot last August, saying the outcome reflects both state law and the wishes of the victim’s family.

Smith pleaded guilty in early November.

Carnahan says Indiana law caps a murder sentence at 65 years and does not allow the death penalty or life without parole in this case. He says Smith was not offered a plea deal, but later agreed to a 60-year sentence while giving up any right to appeal or seek a reduced sentence.

Carnahan says he discussed that offer with Hendershot’s parents, who asked that it be accepted to avoid a trial and years of court proceedings. He says the sentence ensures long-term incarceration while limiting additional trauma for the family.