Hassan given maximum sentence for beheading his wife

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - He won't see the light of day for decades to come. Muzzammil Hassan received the maximum sentence for beheading his wife.

Wednesday, Hassan received the maximum sentence of 25-years to life. Hassan tried desperately to delay the sentencing, but Judge Thomas Franczyk wouldn't have it. Hassan has also been barred from having any contact whatsoever with his children.

Muzzammil Hassan kept his eyes lowered throughout much of sentencing. And, just like the many twists and turns during his 14 day trial, there was an unexpected development prior to him learning his punishment.

The fate of convicted murderer Muzzammil Hassan has been sealed, but not without an attempt to delay sentencing by bringing on attorney, Earl Key.

"I'm adjourning it to get up to speed," said Key.

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>> WATCH VIDEO: Hassan sentencing

>> It took the jury one hour to convict Hassan

>> Hear what members of the jury said about the sentencing

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Prosecutor Colleen Curtin Gable argued strongly against a postponement.

Curtin Gable said, "It is more of the same. It's this defendant's attempt again, beyond the 11th hour, to manipulate the state and to delay the inevitable."

A jury convicted Hassan of second degree murder last month for the beheading and multiple stabbing of his wife Aasiya, two years ago. In that time, he hired and fired four attorneys, including Jeremy Schwartz, who was in the courtroom. Judge Thomas Franczyk denied Hassan's latest request, and moved forward with sentencing.

"This defendant committed one of the most violent, viscous murders imaginable," said Curtin Gable.

Prosecutors asked the judge to sentence the defendant to the maximum, a 25 year to life state prison term. Hassan mumbled one sentence when given the opportunity to speak.

Hassan said, "Sir, I deeply regret things came down to what they came down to."

The judge sentenced Hassan to the maximum, citing his lack of remorse. He was unimpressed by Hassan's post conviction letter.

Judge Franczyk said, "The defendant says in this letter he never ever abused his wife. I am entirely convinced he's utterly incapable of seeing himself for who he is. This was a pre-meditated act of violence and any suggestion that the defendant acted in self defense flies in the face of both logic and common sense."

Hassan remained composed throughout sentencing.

"You ambushed your unsuspecting wife and butchered her. Self defense? I don't think so," added Judge Franczyk.

The judge also issued an order of protection, barring Hassan from having any contact with his children. During the trial, Hassan's two oldest children testified against him. They also submitted post-conviction letters to the court.

Judge Franczyk said, "In Sonia's own words, and I quote, she says, "His selfishness has directed our lives since the beginning and his selfishness is the reason for our state in life.""

Hassan is expected to appeal, and has 30 days to do so. Since his conviction, he has continued to write letters from jail expressing his belief that he suffered from battered spouse syndrome.