James Robert Malec was convicted of voluntary manslaughter yesterday (Sept. 3) for the 2008 shooting death of his stepson, former UFC and Elite XC heavyweight contender Justin Eilers, according to the Idaho Statesman .
Sentencing is expected this October and his conviction is punishable by a fine of up to $15,000 and/or up to 15 years in prison.
Malec was arrested and charged with second-degree murder after shooting Eilers once in the chest on Christmas day in Canyon County, Idaho, in a domestic disturbance turned deadly.
Paramedics were called to the scene but were unsuccessful in their attempts to stabilize him.
Malec worked as a Canyon County corrections officer and dog handler in the late 1990’s and according to Eilers' mother, carried a firearm on a regular basis.
Problems arose when Eilers and his ex-girlfriend began arguing, which further escalated when Malec reportedly ordered Eilers to leave. Eilers refused and one witness reports Eilers challenged Malec to a fight before the shooting took place.
From Deputy Canyon County Prosecutor Scott James:
"Justin Eilers was acting like a jerk, there's no question. He was ruining Christmas. He was disrespecting the defendant in his own home. But he didn't deserve to die."
Eilers (19-7-1) was probably most known among casual fans for his three straight losses over a year’s span in the UFC. From February 2005 to February 2006 he dropped three fights — each by first round technical knockout — to Paul Buentello, Andrei Arlovski and Brandon Vera, respectively.
However, Eilers was on a very impressive streak before passing, having won 10 of his past 12 fights. After falling to Antonio Silva at EliteXC ‘Unfinished Business’ back in July 2008, Eilers was targeting a debut at light heavyweight to further refine his improved skill set and once again prove he was ready for the big stage.
The unfortunate news came barely a week after former UFC and WEC competitor Justin Levens was found dead - also by gunshot - in his California home.
From Gwen Moore, Malec's wife and Eilers' mother:
"I didn't want to make that determination as a wife and a mother. Everyone asked me what justice I wanted. I want my son back, that's what I want. And I'm not going to get that."
Stay tuned to MMAmania.com for more on Malec's sentencing in the coming weeks.