Spector gets 19 years to life for woman’s murder

May 30, 2009 at 12:00a.m.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Phil Spector was sentenced Friday to 19 years to life in prison for the murder of actress Lana Clarkson, who was shot through the mouth in the music producer’s home six years ago.

Spector, 69, looked straight forward and showed no emotion as Superior Court Judge Larry Paul Fidler ordered a term of 15 years to life for second-degree murder plus four years for personal use of a gun.

Clarkson’s mother, Donna, made a brief statement before sentencing, speaking of her daughter’s fine qualities, sense of humor, intelligence and dedication to her craft of acting.

“I’m very proud of Lana, proud to be her mother,” Donna Clarkson said. She added, “No one should suffer the loss of a child.”

The judge also ordered Spector to pay $16,811 in funeral expenses, $9,740 to a state victims’ restitution fund and other fees.

Spector, dressed in his customary dark pinstripe suit with a red silk tie, was led away immediately. His attorney asked that he be transferred immediately from county jail to a state prison. It was not immediately known to which prison Spector would be assigned.

Spector gained fame decades ago for what became known as the “Wall of Sound” recording technique that changed rock music.

Clarkson was most famous as the star of Roger Corman’s 1985 cult film classic “Barbarian Queen.” She was 40 when she died.

Spector’s young wife, who is in her late 20s, attended the sentencing.

“This is a sad day for everybody involved,” Rachelle Spector said. “The Clarkson family has lost a daughter and a sister. I’ve lost my husband, my best friend. I feel that a grave injustice has been done, and from this day forward I’m going to dedicate myself to proving my husband’s innocence.”

Spector’s son Louis, accompanied by his wife, also came to the sentencing. He had attended much of the trial.

“I’m torn about this,” he said. “I’m losing my father who is going to spend his life in jail. At the same time, justice is served.”

Deputy District Attorney Alan Jackson said afterward that the outcome sent a message: “If you commit crimes against our citizens, we will follow you and prosecute you. And no matter whether you are famous or wealthy, you will stand trial.”

Asked how he felt about Spector personally, Jackson said, “I find nothing tragic about him. Everything he did was intentional.”

Jackson said the case was “rock solid” legally and will not be subject to a successful appeal.

Defense attorney Doron Weinberg told reporters that the appeal will be extremely strong.