Thomas Junta

A father in the U.S. state of Massachusetts who killed another father at their children's hockey practice has been sentenced to six to 10 years in prison.

Thomas Junta faced up to 20 years for his conviction of involuntary manslaughter in the death of Michael Costin. The sentence apparently reflects Junta's status as a first-time offender.

Junta and Mr. Costin got into a fight in July of 2000 over the roughness of a hockey practice involving both their sons. Mr. Costin was the coach and his children witnessed the fatal beating.

During his trial, Junta argued he acted in self defense. But witnesses to the beating said the much larger Junta quickly overpowered Mr. Costin, and ignored repeated screams for him to stop.

The death has spurred renewed debate in the United States about violence by parents at children's sporting events. Some school districts have since placed restraints on what parents may say or do while their children take part in games.

Some information for this report provided by AP and Reuters.

Email this article to a friend
Printer Friendly Version