5-22-2007



"I hope you rot in Hell." Eric Nagle quaked with rage, the pad in his hand shaking violently, his voice choked with emotion, tears streaming down his face . . . all while he stared at the man who stabbed his 15-year-old son and ex-wife to death five months ago.



Sentencing can be some of the most intense moments in a court room. For many family members, it is their only time to address the person who wronged their loved one. For supporters of the defendant, it may be their only time to plead for mercy on behalf of their loved one. Today's proceedings in Clark County, although incredibly one-sided, filled a small courtroom with tension that made it difficult for this reporter to breathe.



In January, 25-year-old Dylan Peterson was staying with Sandra Torrell and Matthew Nagle. The young man had spent the holidays with the family, even exchanging Christmas gifts. Then, one cold, rainy day, he stabbed the two to death, waited to be sure they were dead, then called 9-1-1 and confessed.



At no point in his trial did Peterson plead not guilty, eventually agreeing to plead guilty to two counts of First Degree Murder for which he will serve more than 57 years.



As that sentence was handed down, family of Nagle and Torrell sobbed openly in court, calling the defendant a rat and a demon. Wearing white t-shirts with Nagle's photo and nickname, friends and family took turns addressing the court, expressing their sorrow.



In contrast, members of Peterson's family were on hand, bawling throughout the proceedings but choosing NOT to speak on the defendant's behalf.



Peterson's attorney offered no excuse for the crime, merely pointing out issues with alcohol and the defendant's early admission and compliance throughout the trial.



Even Peterson himself did not rise in his own defense, hanging his head throughout the proceeding. He shifted in his shackles and orange jumpsuit, often weeping silently as he listened.



When both sides were finished, Judge John Wulle had his own thoughts to add, claiming that this crime is one of the worst he has ever presided over. At a loss for anything else to say, the Judge told Peterson the agreement struck in court would amount to a life sentence (Peterson will be up for release in his 80's).