James Robert Malec was sentenced up to 15 years in prison yesterday (Nov. 13) following his Sept. 3 conviction of voluntary manslaughter in the 2008 shooting death of his stepson, former UFC and Elite XC heavyweight contender Justin Eilers, according to the Idaho Statesman.
Prosecutors pursued a second degree murder conviction against Malec, but the jury instead delivered the lesser charge.
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 Third District Judge Juneal Kerrick:
"You did not have the right to use deadly force when the danger was not imminent."
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.
Malec will be required to serve a minimum of six and a half years in prison.
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