NEW ORLEANS -- A Louisiana judge has formally imposed a 20-year prison sentence on former NFL star Darren Sharper, who last week was sentenced by a federal judge to 18 years and four months in a drug and rape case with victims in four states.
Defense attorney Billy Gibbens said that the two sentences are essentially the same, when credit for time served and other factors are considered.
Thursday's second sentencing hearing was again punctuated by tearful testimony from victims. One who said she forgave Sharper, despite suffering through depression because of his assault.
Sharper again apologized to his victims and their families and continued to ask for forgiveness, at one point telling the judge: "I am not a monster.