COLUMBIA - A judge sentenced Grady Dortch to life in prison without the possibility of probation or parole for the murder of Miles Heard in 2008.
Dortch was found guilty on charges of first degree murder following the fatal shooting that occured in Douglass Park. Dortch was also sentenced to 15 years in prison on a charge of armed criminal action.
In a written statement given to the judge, Dortch claimed ineffective counsel. Attorney David Wallace told the judge that Dortch's conviction would be appealed and that he plans to file a motion for a new trial.
During Dortch's trial the defense team tried to convince the jurors that Dortch acted in self defense during the time of the shooting.