Last February, Lambesis threw himself on the mercy of the court by pleading guilty to the felony charge of soliciting the murder of his wife of eight years, Meggan Lambesis.

The verdict was handed down as the singer's ex-bandmates Nick Hipa, Phil Sgrosso and Josh Gilbert looked on. Spilling into the section typically reserved for the defense, many of Meggan's more than three dozen supporters adorned small yellow felt hearts pinned to their shirts to make their sentiments known. With more than 80 spectators packing the gallery, defense attorney Tom Warwick told the judge that he had a lot of people who support Tim and he wanted "some kind of parity" with the seating in the room.

Mike Murphy, Meggan's father, was the first to speak to the court. As Lambesis watched intently, Murphy explained that some people talk about being a Christian, but Meggan lives a Christian life and that his daughter has influenced other people to adopt children, too. Murphy went on to claim the family still fears assassination: "We know that prison is a great alibi for someone who wants to complete the deed."

After meeting with Lambesis' attorney regarding a civil suit, the singer reportedly showed no remorse. "He was only worried about the money. Tim is only sorry he got caught." He closed by calling for the maximum sentence of nine years.

Meggan's mother spoke next, claiming that Lambesis had been "abusive" and that he had regarded her daughter's life "as was a mere inconvenience to this narcissistic child."

When Meggan finally spoke, Lambesis turned in his seat to listen but didn't look into her face. The wife and mother of three adopted children, Meggan said Lambesis' behavior changed in the prior months. He had bullied her. He had become "dangerous." Reading a prepared statement, she claimed her life "felt as fragile as a piece of paper that could float away at any moment."