LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A southern Indiana man is who pleaded guilty to killing and mutilating a Clarksville woman inside her apartment three years ago has been sentenced. 

Clark County circuit court judge on Friday ordered Brian Montez Williams to serve the maximum sentence -- 55 years in prison for the brutal murder and mutilation of 67-year-old Melody Gambetty. Court records said Williams murdered Gambetty, then cut off her head, fingers and toes.

The sentence comes after Williams pleaded guilty in October to one count of murder. 

It happened in July 2021. That's when firefighters responded to an apartment fire on Kensington Drive where they found the headless torso of 67-year-old Melody Gambetty. Investigators believe the attack may have happened after a burglary or home invasion.

Friday's sentencing hearing featured hours of testimony from Williams' parents and aunt. A psychiatrist also testified on behalf of Williams.

While the defense argued that Williams struggled with schizophrenia for years, the court ruled he would face the maximum sentence allowed within the plea agreement.

Williams was permitted to make a statement, and he apologized to the victim's loved ones. 

Gambetty's family did not attend the sentencing, but  statements were read in court on their behalf.

Williams' defense team can still appeal the sentencing.

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